The over stimulation of the thyroid gland leads to hyperplasia of the gland and subsequently this leads to an increase in the secretion of thyroid hormones. The growth in the cells and its multiplication manifest in enlargement of the gland. Noticeable changes occur in all parts of the body as a result of the increased hormone secretion.
There is elevation in metabolic rate manifesting in elevation in metabolism of protein, fat and carbohydrate. The accelerated protein and fat metabolism lead to weight loss and muscular weakness. The body attempts to remedy the weight loss and so the patient's appetite is increased in the process.
Exert
Patient is unable to tolerate hot weather as a result of the increase in the body metabolism. The superficial capillaries dilate leading to increased peripheral blood flow and also an increase in cardiac output as the body tries to eliminate excess heat from the system. This accounts for warm and moist skin and also for the perspiration.
The increase cardiac output in conjunction with hormonal effects on the sympathetic nerves brings about palpitation and tachycardia. There may be ectopic beats or atrial fibrillation in the elderly. There is increase in systolic blood pressure and the pulse pressure. The heart tries to compensate for these increases and may eventually become overwhelmed and fail.
The increase in metabolism also brings about an increase in the absorption of glucose from the intestines. This excessive absorption of glucose triggers off glyconeolysis which in combination with the glucose absorption leads to hyperglycaemia. Excessive glucose in the blood leads to the release of insulin into the blood stream which brings about a rapid fall in blood glucose level. This glyconeolysis and insulin release lead to rapid rise and fall in blood glucose level as well.
Oxygen consumption is increased as a result of the increase in metabolic rate. The increased metabolic rate coupled with increase oxygen consumption leads to changes in perception and co-ordination. Increased sympathetic activity and increase blood flow to the brain lead to nervousness, hyperactivity, hyper-excitability, restlessness, irritability and insomnia.
Increased adrenergic activity results in the retraction of the upper eyelids which presents with increased sclera exposure or exophthalmos. Increased adrenergic activity also causes fine muscle tremors which are noticeable when patient's hands are outstretched.
Excessive thyroid hormones exert some effects on the sympathetic nervous system which lead to increase in peristalsis producing an increase the frequency of bowel motion (diarrhoea).
Noticeable changes occur in the reproductive systems. There is either increase sexual desire or low sex drives in both sexes. In the hyperthyroid males gynaecomastia is sometimes present, whereas there is oligomenorrhoea or amenorrhoea in the females. However, there may be decrease in fertility in severe hyperthyroidism.
The skin becomes thinned and the hair is fine, soft and straight as a result of increased thyroid hormone secretion.
Hyperthyroidism - Its Pathophysiology
Joseph Ezie Efoghor is a Registered Nurse with several years of practical experience. He has touched many lives through his style of writing. To get more of his articles, visit http://www.africannursesforum.com/blog
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