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Thyrotoxicosis, also referred to as Thyroid Storm is a life threatening event that occurs when too much thyroid hormone is dumped into the blood stream. This event can manifest itself in those who have hyperthyroidism that has gone untreated as well as those undergoing surgical procedures on the thyroid, those experiencing trauma and viral and bacterial infections. Thyroid Storm requires immediate medical attention or death will ultimately be the result. Anyone experiencing Thyrotoxicosis is admitted to the hospital critical care unit for medical treatment.
The Symptoms of Thyroid Storm
Increased body temperature Tachycardia (rapid heart rate) Nausea/vomiting Diarrhea Heart palpitations Heart failure Pulmonary edema Confusion Seizure Coma Abdominal pain Jaundice
Thyrotoxicosis is caused by an increase of thyroid hormone in the blood stream followed by a fever of up to 106 degrees. Factors that cause this affliction include:
Stopping the required hyperthyroidism medications without consulting with the health care professional Ingesting too much of thyroid hormone causing an overdose Radioactive iodine treatments People with hyperactive thyroid conditions who are suffering from severe infection or illness Myocardial infarction (heart attack) in a person with hyperactive thyroid
Anyone who has hyperthyroidism is susceptible to thyroid storm. The condition is brought about when excess amounts of thyroid hormone are secreted into the blood stream in a very short time period.
Anyone with an overactive thyroid who has a fever, rapid heartbeat, with confusion or disorientation, should be hospitalized immediately. A medical history will be taken and diagnostic testing will be performed to analyze:
Blood cell count Electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, and calcium Blood sugar level Thyroid hormone levels will also be tested. Liver function test
The Treatment:
If someone is experiencing a thyroid storm, the goal is to decrease production or inhibit production and its release into the blood. This is accomplished by the following methods:
The administration of PTU and methimazole in high dosages will inhibit production of thyroid hormone. Sodium iodide, potassium iodide, or Lugol’s solution can be administered to prevent the secretion of thyroxin. Beta blockers such as propranolol (Inderal, Inderal LA) to control heart rate, and IV steroids to enhance circulation.
If gone untreated, Thyrotoxicosis can result in:
Coma Heart failure Liver failure Stroke Death
Treatment also includes:
Administration of IV fluids and electrolytes. Oxygen via nasal cannula or face mask Medication and cooling towels to control fever Vitamins Antibiotics Iodine to block secretion of thyroid hormone Kidney dialysis Sedatives to induce rest Propranolol and dexamethasone to block hormone synthesis Antithyroid drugs and potassium iodine.
All medications should be taken as prescribed by your healthcare provider if you are diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. Furthermore, if you are aware and familiar with the signs and symptoms of thyroid storm, it will allow you the opportunity to seek immediate medical care, thus resulting in saving your life.
Barb Hicks is an established writer and registered nurse who loves to share her experience about Hyperactive Thyroid Treatment with others. She contributes more lessons like Thyroid Fine Needle Biopsy Aspiration on Clivir.com.
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