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
There is a large increase in blood thyroid hormone level, accompanied by fever as high as 106 degrees. This condition can be caused by the following factors that 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
Everyone who has been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism is susceptible to thyroid storm as it is brought on by an excess amount of thyroid hormone being secreted into the blood stream in a short amount of time.
All person's diagnosed with over active thyroid will be admitted to the hospital if they are experiencing rapid heartbeat, confusion, disorientation and a fever. Upon admittance to the hospital, a medical history will be taken along with diagnostic testing to analyze things including:
Blood cell count Electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, and calcium Blood sugar level Thyroid hormone levels will also be tested. Liver function test
Treatment:
The goal of the medical professional is to decrease the amount of thyroid hormone produced or inhibit its production and release into the blood. This is done by:
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 thyroid storm is not treated, the following can occur:
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.
If you have a hyperactive thyroid, it is important to take your medication as prescribed by your physician. You can prevent thyroid storm by following your doctor's orders. Knowing the signs and symptoms of thyroid storm can prevent treatment delay and enable you to call 911 right away.
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
There is a large increase in blood thyroid hormone level, accompanied by fever as high as 106 degrees. This condition can be caused by the following factors that 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
Everyone who has been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism is susceptible to thyroid storm as it is brought on by an excess amount of thyroid hormone being secreted into the blood stream in a short amount of time.
All person's diagnosed with over active thyroid will be admitted to the hospital if they are experiencing rapid heartbeat, confusion, disorientation and a fever. Upon admittance to the hospital, a medical history will be taken along with diagnostic testing to analyze things including:
Blood cell count Electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, and calcium Blood sugar level Thyroid hormone levels will also be tested. Liver function test
Treatment:
The goal of the medical professional is to decrease the amount of thyroid hormone produced or inhibit its production and release into the blood. This is done by:
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 thyroid storm is not treated, the following can occur:
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.
If you have a hyperactive thyroid, it is important to take your medication as prescribed by your physician. You can prevent thyroid storm by following your doctor's orders. Knowing the signs and symptoms of thyroid storm can prevent treatment delay and enable you to call 911 right away.
About the Author:
Barb Hicks is a Licensed Registered Nurse who loves to writes and shares her knowledge with others. She is a featured writer on Clivir.com where she shared more resources about Thyroid Disease Problems and Hyperthyroidism Natural Remedies.
