Hyperthyroidism develops when the body is exposed to excessive amounts of thyroid hormone. This disorder occurs in approximately five to seven million Americans and affects women five to ten times more often than men. In its mildest form, hyperthyroidism may not cause recognizable symptoms. More often, however, the symptoms are discomforting, disabling, or even life-threatening. The most common form of this disorder is Graves' disease, also known as Diffuse Toxic Goiter. |