Hyperthyroidism

“As I see it, every day you do one of two things: build health or produce disease in yourself.” Adelle Davis

When the thyroid produces too much thyroid hormone, it is called hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is rare, affecting about 1 percent of the population. Too much thyroid hormone can cause nervousness and anxiety, increased heart rate or palpitations, breathlessness, diarrhea, insomnia, and depression. The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is an autoimmune disease called Graves’ disease.

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disease. These antibodies mimic the action of TSH and cause the gland to make too much thyroid hormone. Graves’ disease is more common in women between age 20 and 50, who often have a family history of thyroid disease.