Hyperthyroidism: meaning, definitions and examples

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hyperthyroidism

 

[haɪpərˈθaɪrɔɪdɪzəm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "hyperthyroidism" in other languages:

🇵🇹 hipertireoidismo

🇮🇳 हाइपरथायरायडिज़्म

🇩🇪 Hyperthyreose

🇮🇩 hipertiroidisme

🇺🇦 гіпертиреоз

🇵🇱 hipertireoza

🇯🇵 甲状腺機能亢進症

🇫🇷 hyperthyroïdie

🇪🇸 hipertiroïdismo

🇹🇷 hipertiroidizm

🇰🇷 갑상선기능항진증

🇸🇦 فرط نشاط الغدة الدرقية

🇨🇿 hypertyreóza

🇸🇰 hypertyreóza

🇨🇳 甲状腺功能亢进症

🇸🇮 hipertiroza

🇮🇸 ofvirkni skjaldkirtils

🇰🇿 гипертиреоз

🇬🇪 ჰიპერდოქსინოზი

🇦🇿 hipertireoz

🇲🇽 hipertiroidismo

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,375, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.