Posted Feb 18, 2013
Overactive thyroid?
The risk of hyperthyroidism increases with age. The diagnosis of thyroid disease can be particularly tricky in older people, according to Harvard Medical School.
While older people can experience these classic symptoms, the following symptoms may also provide important clues to possible thyroid problems.
Depression. An older person with hyperthyroidism is more likely than a younger person with the disease to develop depression.
Heart failure. The heavy burden an overactive thyroid places on the heart can lead to heart failure — a condition where the heart cannot pump blood effectively.
Atrial fibrillation. In one study, 35 percent of older people with hyperthyroidism experienced disorganized heart rhythms.
Excessive weight loss. A younger person with hyperthyroidism may experience some weight loss, but older people tend to lose even more weight, and may even appear malnourished.
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