Hyperthyroidism Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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hyperthyroidism
[haɪpərˈθaɪrɔɪdɪzəm ]
Definition
medical condition
Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces excessive amounts of thyroid hormones, leading to a variety of symptoms. It can accelerate your body's metabolism, resulting in unintentional weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and nervousness. The condition can be caused by several factors, including Graves' disease, thyroiditis, and excessive intake of iodine.
Synonyms
overactive thyroid, thyrotoxicosis.
Examples of usage
- He was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism after experiencing weight loss.
- Symptoms of hyperthyroidism can include increased sweating and anxiety.
- The doctor prescribed medication to manage her hyperthyroidism.
- Dietary changes helped him cope with the symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Symptoms
- Common symptoms include rapid heart rate, unexplained weight loss, and increased sweating.
- Some people may experience anxiety and nervousness, similar to the jitters from too much caffeine.
Diagnosis
- Doctors usually perform a blood test to check hormone levels to diagnose this condition.
- An ultrasound or a radioactive iodine uptake test may also be used to evaluate thyroid function.
Treatment
- Treatment options include medications that reduce hormone production, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery to remove part of the thyroid.
- Lifestyle changes like diet and exercise can help manage symptoms alongside medical treatments.
Interesting Facts
- Women are more likely than men to be diagnosed with this condition, particularly in their 30s to 50s.
- Graves' disease is a common cause of hyperthyroidism, an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland.
Origin of 'hyperthyroidism'
Main points about word origin
- The prefix 'hyper-' comes from Greek meaning 'over' or 'excessive,' indicating too much of something.
- The word 'thyroid' is derived from the Greek word 'thyreos,' meaning 'shield,' which refers to the gland's shape.
The term 'hyperthyroidism' is derived from the Greek words 'hyper' meaning 'over' or 'excessive' and 'thyreos' meaning 'shield', which refers to the shape of the thyroid gland. The suffix '-ism' denotes a condition or disease. The usage of the term can be traced back to the early 20th century when thyroid-related disorders became a significant area of medical study. Advances in endocrinology and hormone research led to a better understanding of the thyroid's role in the body's metabolism and overall health. As medical science progressed, the differentiation between conditions like hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism became clearer, allowing for more precise diagnoses and treatments. This distinction has continued to evolve as researchers have explored the complexities of thyroid function and its impact on various bodily processes.