To diagnose hyperthyroidism, the doctor will ask about your symptoms, examine you, and order lab tests. Some of these tests measure hormone levels and others check thyroid gland function. The doctor may order other tests such as a thyroid scan and an ultrasound.

 

The options for treatment are medication, radiation, and surgery.

Antithyroid drugs usually control hyperthyroidism in 8 weeks. The drugs may need to be continued, however, for a year or longer.

A pill containing radioactive iodine is also commonly used to treat some types of hyperthyroidism, especially if the condition has recurred. The major risk of this treatment is the development of low thyroid levels.

Radiation treatment with iodine is common. However, if the disease returns and further treatment is needed, the risk of developing low thyroid levels increases. Low levels of thyroid can be dangerous but are easily treated with drugs.

Surgery can be done to remove part or all of the thyroid gland or a lump in the gland. Surgery cures the disease 90% of the time. However, there are certain risks associated with surgery, including nerve damage and low thyroid levels.

The effects of hyperthyroidism usually last as long as thyroid hormone levels are too high. Sometimes the disease improves without treatment. However, it can cause heart failure and death if it is not treated.

 

Follow the full treatment prescribed by the doctor. Do not stop or adjust your thyroid medication without first asking your doctor.

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