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Hyperthyroidism: Age-Related Symptoms

Topic Overview

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism may be different depending on your age.

Young adults are likely to:

  • Have an irregular heartbeat.
  • Feel nervous.
  • Have problems sleeping.
  • Have soft stools and more stools than usual.
  • Feel uncomfortable in warm temperatures and sweat more than normal.
  • Lose weight while eating the same amount of food as normal.

It can be harder to diagnose hyperthyroidism in older adults because symptoms may be mistaken for normal signs of aging. Older adults with hyperthyroidism are likely to:

  • Feel depressed.
  • Have a fast, pounding, or irregular heart rhythm.
  • Have a hard time breathing, even when resting.
  • Have hand tremors.
  • Feel nervous.
  • Lose weight and not feel like eating.
  • Feel weak, tired, or without energy.

Related Information

Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer David C.W. Lau, MD, PhD, FRCPC - Endocrinology
Last Revised November 4, 2011

Last Revised: November 4, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & David C.W. Lau, MD, PhD, FRCPC - Endocrinology

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