Several complications can occur if you have overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). These are outlined below and are most likely to occur if the condition is not treated.
Graves' ophthalmopathy
If you have Graves' disease, you may have problems with your eyes. This is known as Graves' ophthalmopathy.
Problems may include:
- discomfort in your eyes
- problems with vision
- prominent (bulging) eyes
In mild cases, the symptoms of Graves' ophthalmopathy can be relieved using eye drops. You can prevent dust particles getting into your eyes by wearing sunglasses and eye protectors while you are sleeping. More severe forms of the condition require specialist treatment.
Thyroid storm
Overactive thyroid that is undiagnosed or poorly controlled can lead to a rare but serious reaction called a thyroid storm.
A thyroid storm can be triggered by an infection, injury or trauma, such as a stroke. The condition can also occur in pregnant women with undiagnosed or poorly controlled hyperthyroidism, and can be triggered by childbirth or surgery.
The symptoms of a thyroid storm include:
- a very rapid heartbeat (over 140 beats a minute)
- fever (a temperature higher than 38°C/100.4°F)
- dehydration, with diarrhoea and vomiting
- jaundice (a yellow tinge to your skin)
- severe agitation and confusion
- hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not real)
A thyroid storm requires emergency medical treatment in hospital.
