How is Hyperthyroidism Diagnosed?

Are you experiencing symptoms of hyperthyroidism and wondering about the diagnostic methods? Continue reading this article, where we will explain in detail the methods of diagnosing hyperthyroidism and the importance of early diagnosis.

How is Hyperthyroidism Diagnosed?

Doctors typically diagnose hyperthyroidism through several steps, which are explained below:

• Medical History and Physical Examination 

The first step in diagnosing hyperthyroidism is taking the patient's medical history and conducting a physical examination to check for any clear symptoms indicating this health issue. The doctor will:

1. Gently feel the thyroid gland to check for enlargement, swelling, or pain.
2. Examine the eyes for symptoms of Graves' disease, such as swelling, redness, and bulging eyes.
3. Check the skin to see if it is moist and warm.
4. Look for tremors in the hands and changes in the nails.
5. Use a stethoscope to measure the heart rate, checking for irregular or rapid beats.

• Blood Tests 

Blood tests help confirm the diagnosis, especially in older adults who may not exhibit the typical symptoms of hyperthyroidism. The doctor usually orders blood tests to measure the levels of the following hormones:

1. Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3): Their levels are elevated in cases of hyperthyroidism.
2. Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH): Its levels are decreased in hyperthyroidism.

You can measure thyroid hormone levels through the thyroid tests package provided by Blazma. This test does not require fasting or any other preparations, but it is important to note that the blood test may yield inaccurate results if biotin (a B vitamin supplement) is taken. The doctor may advise stopping biotin intake 3-5 days before the test .

• Thyroid Imaging 

If blood test results indicate hyperthyroidism, the doctor may request one of the following imaging tests to determine the underlying cause:

1. Radioactive Iodine Uptake Test

The patient ingests a small, safe amount of radioactive iodine orally. After a certain period, a device is used to measure the amount of iodine absorbed by the thyroid. If a large amount is absorbed, it indicates that the thyroid is producing excess thyroxine, which may suggest Graves' disease or thyroid nodules.

2. Thyroid Scan

This test is usually conducted simultaneously with the radioactive iodine uptake test, requiring the patient to ingest or inject a quantity of radioactive iodine. The specialist then takes several images of the thyroid using a special camera to determine the amount of iodine absorbed and to examine the thyroid's shape and size. 

The iodine makes the thyroid gland appear bright on the screen, allowing the doctor to detect any lumps, nodules, inflammation, swelling, or even cancer.

3. Thyroid Ultrasound

High-frequency sound waves are used to take images of the thyroid, helping locate nodules. Since this imaging method does not expose the patient to radiation, it is suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women and those who cannot ingest radioiodine.

What is the Importance of Early Diagnosis of Hyperthyroidism?

Early diagnosis is crucial for initiating appropriate treatment. Untreated hyperthyroidism can affect many parts of the body, including the heart and bones. 

Complications of untreated hyperthyroidism include stroke, osteoporosis, congestive heart failure, and atrial fibrillation.