How is hyperthyroidism treated?

The three main treatments for hyperthyroidism are: 1) medical therapy, 2) surgery, and 3) RAI ablation. The best treatment depends on a number of factors and the treatment plan should be made with the help of experts in thyroid disease including endocrinologists and surgeons. In general, the first treatment that is usually tried once a diagnosis is made is usually antithyroid medications. If medical therapy does not work, then a more definitive therapy such as surgery or RAI ablation is considered. The choice between surgery and RAI ablation will depend on the expertise and experience of the patient's doctors. Both have equal success rates and low risks of complications.

If you have symptoms that could be due to hyperthyroidism, especially if you have a family history of hyperthyroidism, see your doctor for an accurate diagnosis. Effective treatments do exist. They range from medications and iodine treatments to surgery. The key is to recognize symptoms and seek treatment and diagnosis when appropriate, so that stress to the body is minimized.

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