The thyroid regulates metabolism. When it produces too much of the thyroid hormones, metabolism increases. This condition is called hyperthyroidism.

Because of developmental problems, age, or acquired physical problems, some individuals are not able to communicate that they are having discomfort or pain. That's an opportunity for family members and care givers to listen to what behaviors may be telling them about medical conditions.

Behaviors that may be telling you about hyperthyroidism:

• Fatigue
• Weakness all over, all the time
• Can't think, brain fog, poor concentration
• Difficulty reading, calculating
• Mood swings, anxiety, depression, being very emotional
• Feeling nervous, restless, irritable
• Hyperactivity
• Aggressive behavior
• Self-injury
• Rubs eyes
• Eats very little (anorexia)
• Problems falling and staying asleep

Other factors that may indicate the presence of hyperthyroidism:

• Enlarged thyroid (goiter)
• Overheats easily
• Hair becomes finer
• Eye problems: blurry, irritated, dry, red, sensitive to light, double vision, bulging eyes, jumpy eyes
• Difficulty swallowing, sore throat
• Voice becomes hoarse, husky
• Shortness of breath
• Swelling of face, eyes, legs
• Heart beats too fast, too hard, or irregularly
• High blood pressure
• Anemia
• Digestive problems
• Thirst
• Changes in weight, usually weight loss, even when appetite increases
• Muscles of arms, legs are weak, shaky (fine tremor), achy; hands shake
• Muscle mass shrinks
• Diarrhea or frequent bowel movements
• Changes in menstrual flow, duration; PMS
• Fertility problems
• Low sex drive for men and women; impotence in men
• Skin is warm, moist, excessive sweating
• Lowered resistance to infection
• Vision problems, eye irritation

Do you think someone's behavior may be telling you about hyperthyroidism? Talk with your doctor or other health care provider. They can work with you to learn whether this is the case.

A Checklist of What Behaviors Tell Us

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