There are a number of hyperthyroidism treatments available. This article offers brief explanations on the most common treatments: anti-thyroid medications, radioactive iodine, and surgery. Beta blockers, lesser-used medications, are also described.
The symptoms of hyperthyroidism include weight changes, heart palpitations, and nervousness. Learn what other symptoms are caused by excessive amounts of thyroid hormones in your body.
Surgery is a hyperthyroidism treatment option, but it’s not as commonly used as antithyroid medications or radioactive iodine. Thyroid surgery is known as a thyroidectomy. A thyroidectomy involves the partial or total removal of the thyroid gland.
Radioactive iodine treats hyperthyroidism by gradually shrinking the thyroid—ultimately destroying the gland. This therapy is the most common hyperthyroid treatment in the US. Article includes side effects and special instructions for patients.
Uncontrolled hyperthyroidism can lead to serious complications, especially for your heart. If you don’t treat hyperthyroidism, you run the risk of developing heart arrhythmia and other cardiovascular problems. You may also develop osteoporosis.
Antithyroid medications are a common treatment for hyperthyroidism. They prevent the thyroid from producing excess amounts of hormone. In the US, there are 2 antithyroid medications available—propylthiouracil (PTU) and methimazole (Tapazole).