Overview
Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces excessive amounts of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), leading to an overactive metabolism. This can affect nearly every system in the body, causing symptoms such as weight loss, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, and heat intolerance.
In Korea, hyperthyroidism is a relatively common endocrine disorder, especially among women. Thanks to advanced diagnostic techniques, specialized endocrinology centers, and effective treatments including surgery, medication, and radioiodine therapy, Korea provides world-class care for patients with thyroid conditions. Public awareness is high due to Korea’s strong healthcare infrastructure and routine health screenings that often detect thyroid abnormalities early.
What is Hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland, located in the neck, produces more thyroid hormone than the body needs. This excess hormone accelerates body functions such as metabolism, heart rate, and digestion.
The most common cause in Korea (and worldwide) is Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder.
Symptoms
- Unexplained weight loss
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
- Increased appetite
- Nervousness, anxiety, or irritability
- Excessive sweating
- Tremors in the hands and fingers
- Heat intolerance
- Enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)
- Sleep difficulties
- Eye problems (bulging eyes in Graves’ disease)
Causes
- Graves’ disease (most common in Korea)
- Toxic multinodular goiter
- Thyroid nodules producing excess hormones
- Thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid)
- Excess iodine intake (from diet or supplements)
- Certain medications (e.g., amiodarone)
Risk Factors
- Family history of thyroid disease
- Female gender (women are more commonly affected)
- Autoimmune disorders (like type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis)
- Excessive iodine intake (some Korean diets are rich in seaweed and iodine)
- Middle-aged adults (though it can occur at any age)
Complications
If untreated, hyperthyroidism can lead to:
- Heart problems (atrial fibrillation, heart failure)
- Osteoporosis (bone loss)
- Thyroid storm (life-threatening hyperthyroidism crisis)
- Eye disease (Graves’ ophthalmopathy)
- Pregnancy complications (preterm birth, preeclampsia)
Prevention
While hyperthyroidism cannot always be prevented, risks can be reduced by:
- Regular thyroid check-ups (especially for people with family history)
- Monitoring iodine intake (avoiding excessive seaweed or supplements)
- Early treatment of thyroid nodules or autoimmune thyroid disease
Treatment Options in Korea
Diagnosis
- Blood tests (TSH, T3, T4 levels)
- Thyroid antibody tests for Graves’ disease
- Thyroid ultrasound to check nodules or goiter
- Radioactive iodine uptake (RAIU) test
- Routine screenings (Korea’s national health exams often include thyroid function tests if abnormalities are suspected)
Medical Treatments
- Antithyroid medications (Methimazole, Propylthiouracil)
- Beta-blockers to manage symptoms (fast heart rate, tremors)
- Radioactive iodine therapy (I-131), widely available in Korea
- Hormone replacement if hypothyroidism develops after treatment
Surgical or Advanced Therapies
- Thyroidectomy (removal of all or part of the thyroid) – performed in specialized hospitals
- Minimally invasive and robotic thyroid surgery, where Korea is a global leader
- Advanced treatment for Graves’ ophthalmopathy in eye-specialized clinics
Rehabilitation and Support
- Long-term monitoring of thyroid function
- Nutritional counseling to manage iodine intake
- Eye care and treatment for thyroid-related eye disease
- Support groups and counseling for chronic condition management
