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How to check for hyperthyroidism

Jul 21, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Chuanjia
Introduction
Hyperthyroidism usually refers to hyperfunction of the thyroid gland. Under normal circumstances, the main diagnostic methods for hyperthyroidism include blood tests, antibody tests, radioactive iodine uptake tests, ultrasound examinations, and nuclear medicine scans. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical consultation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Once diagnosed, the doctor will develop a personalized treatment plan based on the patient's specific condition.

Hyperthyroidism usually refers to hyperthyroidism. Generally, the main diagnostic methods for hyperthyroidism include blood tests, antibody testing, radioactive iodine uptake tests, ultrasound examinations, and nuclear medicine scans. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely treatment at a regular hospital. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Blood Tests

This is the most basic test for diagnosing hyperthyroidism, primarily measuring levels of thyroid hormones and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in the serum. When hyperthyroidism occurs, excessive secretion of thyroid hormones will feedback and inhibit the pituitary gland from secreting TSH. Therefore, the typical presentation is elevated free T3 and free T4 levels, along with decreased TSH levels, which can be used to initially assess the thyroid function status.

2. Antibody Testing

This mainly involves testing for autoantibodies associated with hyperthyroidism, such as thyrotropin receptor antibodies (TRAb) and thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb). Among these, TRAb is a specific marker for Graves' disease.

3. Radioactive Iodine Uptake Test

This test determines the type of hyperthyroidism by measuring the thyroid's uptake rate and uptake curve of radioactive iodine. The thyroid has the ability to take up iodine; in hyperthyroidism, the uptake rate is typically elevated, with an earlier peak.

4. Ultrasound Examination

Ultrasound is used to observe the morphology, size, echogenicity, and blood flow of the thyroid gland. In patients with hyperthyroidism, the thyroid often appears diffusely enlarged with increased internal echogenicity; Graves' disease may also show a "firestorm sign."

5. Nuclear Medicine Scanning

This involves intravenous injection of a radioactive isotope to observe its distribution within the thyroid gland. Graves' disease typically presents as diffuse, uniform imaging of the thyroid with enhanced isotope uptake. In contrast, autonomously functioning thyroid adenomas appear as localized "hot nodules," with reduced imaging of surrounding thyroid tissue. This method can be used to locate lesions and differentiate types of hyperthyroidism.

Once diagnosed, doctors will develop a personalized treatment plan based on the patient's specific condition, which may include medication, iodine-131 therapy, surgical treatment, and more. Meanwhile, patients should also adjust their lifestyle habits, maintain a regular schedule, and cultivate a positive mindset to promote recovery.

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