For people with hyperthyroidism, it's important to know what a thyroid storm is and how to prevent it, since the event can be fatal and needs immediate medical attention.
A thyroid storm can occur when hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, is left untreated or isn't treated adequately.
According to Healthline, a thyroid storm can increase the blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature to life-threatening levels, so quick treatment is necessary. Patients who experience thyroid storm often admit themselves to the emergency room or call 911 for help.
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Along with racing heart rate, symptoms may include persistent sweating, shaking, agitation, confusion, high fever, shaking, or unconsciousness, Healthline reports.
The condition could cause the rapid development of heart failure and pulmonary edema that leads to death,
according to MedlinePlus, a site for the National Institutes for Health.
Doctors treat the condition by decreasing thyroid hormone levels with medication. Intravenous treatment may be used to treat possible dehydration, and beta blockers help
control the heart rate, says MedicineNet.com.
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Although untreated or undertreated hyperthyroidism can lead to a thyroid storm, an infection associated with an overactive thyroid can also lead to the condition. Healthline notes trauma, emotional distress, congestive heart failure, pulmonary embolism, stroke, or diabetic ketoacidosis can cause a thyroid storm in hyperthyroidism patients.
Now that you know what a thyroid storm is, the best way to prevent it is to stick to a thyroid health plan, take medications on schedule, and stay under the regular care of a physician for blood work analysis, Healthline advises.
Hyperthyroidism patients risk a thyroid storm if they decide to discontinue their medications or they could exceed thyroid hormone levels with an over-replacement, MedicineNet.com points out. Treatment with radioactive iodine also could trigger a thyroid storm.
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