Q. What is thyrotoxicosis and hyperthyroidism?

Thyrotoxicosis and hyperthyroidism are two closely related conditions that both involve an overproduction of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland. In general, thyrotoxicosis is a state of clinical toxicity due to any cause that results in elevated circulating levels of free thyroxine (T4) and/or triiodothyronine (T3). Hyperthyroidism is the specific condition caused by an overactive thyroid gland, usually as a result of Grave’s Disease or toxic multinodular goiter.

The typical symptoms associated with thyrotoxicosis include nervousness, weight loss despite high appetite, heat intolerance, increased sweating, fatigue, weakness in the muscles near joints (proximal myopathy), irritability and tremor. Hyperthyroidism can also cause changes in heart rate such as tachycardia or palpitations. Physical manifestations may include enlarged eyes (exophthalmos) which can occur without visible eye bulging and diffuse skin flush on face plus neck known as “pretibial myxedema” due to deposition of mucopolysaccharides beneath skin surface.

Diagnosing these two conditions starts with blood tests for measurements of TSH (the messenger hormone produced by pituitary whcih stimulates thyroid activities), T4 ,T3 & antithyroid antibodies . If any abnormal value is detected further detailed imaging tests is done like ultrasound scan & scintigraphy scans to locate actual source & measure degree of activity. Treatment depend upon detected problem such as radioactive iodine therapy or antithyorid drugs like carbimazole & propranolol if more mild cases arise then beta blockers drugs works well to control symptoms but most extreme case requires surgery where part or whole gland removed from body depending upon situation .

Thyrotoxicosis and hyperthyroidism are serious medical conditions that require accurate diagnosis from a qualified healthcare professional followed up with prompt treatment; however some patients can improve their condition significantly through lifestyle changes including dietary modification so it's always best option to seek advice from your doctor before attempting self-treatment approach because even minor alterations could have significant health consequences if not managed properly proper attention should also be given while monitoring post treatment progress levels since being aware about body chemistry helps lot rather than complicating matters at later stages unluckily this might happen sometimes due causing lack knowledge regarding significance associated biological processes involved such condition requiring immediate medical attention otherwise risk permanent damage may develop accordingly so timely action is must if suspect anything weird then get checked right away..