Question

What is the difference between hyperthyroidism and thyrotoxicosis?

Answer 1

Hyperthyroidism:

1. The rate of synthesis and secretion of the thyroid hormones is increased to abnormal high levels leading to a condition called hyperthyroidism.
2. It adversely affects the body physiology.
3. There are many causes of hyperthyroidism: such as Grave's disease, thyroid nodules, thyroiditis, tumors of thyroid gland etc.
4. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism includes increased or very high metabolism, frequent bowel movements, weight loss, irregular menstrual cycle in women, brittle hair, restlessness and increase in appetite.

Thyrotoxicosis:

1. It is a clinical condition where there are high levels of thyroid hormone circulating in the blood.
2. Thyrotoxicosis can be because of many reasons such as due to excessive consumption of thyroid medication, thyroid inflammation etc.
3. A severe case of thyrotoxicosis is also known as thyroid storm or thyroid crisis.
4. Symptoms of thyrotoxicosis includes increased or very high metabolism, frequent bowel movements, weight loss, irregular menstrual cycle in women, brittle hair, restlessness and increase in appetite.