Hyperthyroid Symptoms

When people have an overactive thyroid, their body will have a surplus of hormones and may begin to exhibit hyperthyroid symptoms. Though the symptoms of hyperthyroidism vary from person to person, there are several common symptoms that warrant a trip to the doctor's office for further testing. The most common symptoms are fatigue, hair loss or thinning, excessive sweating and an enlarged thyroid that bulges from the neck.

Hair Loss

Many people who are hyperthyroid experience higher-than-normal hair loss or notice the hair becoming finer and thinning. The hair will also become soft and fragile.

Fatigue

An overactive thyroid leaves one feeling tired, fatigued and weak. The person will be easily exhausted from a minimal amount of physical activity and sleep for longer periods of time.

Reproductive Organs

Hyperthyroidism disrupts the menstrual cycle in women, causing it to become irregular or cease completely. Men who are hyperthyroid may notice the breasts becoming larger.

Temperature Issues

An overactive thyroid often causes people to sweat excessively, frequently feel warm or hot -- though others do not -- and develop a low-grade fever.

Goiter

A common symptom of hyperthyroidism is an enlarged thyroid that bulges visibly from the neck, also known as goiter. This can be uncomfortable but is usually not painful.

Resources

• Additional Information on Hyperthyroidism