Can hyperthyroidism be completely cured?
I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and am very concerned. May I ask if hyperthyroidism can be completely cured?
Doctor's answer (1)
Hyperthyroidism, also known as overactive thyroid, is an endocrine disorder caused by excessive production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland. With appropriate treatment, most patients can be cured. Common treatment methods include:
1. For hyperthyroidism caused by Graves' disease, treatment options include antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine therapy, and surgical removal of the thyroid. Radioactive iodine therapy and surgery can provide long-term remission or even cure for many patients, but may require lifelong thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
2. For hyperthyroidism caused by thyroiditis or tumors, treatment should be tailored according to the underlying cause.
3. Patients with mild symptoms can take medications such as methimazole or propylthiouracil to reduce thyroid hormone production. However, the recurrence rate with medication treatment is approximately 50%.
4. If a patient has a space-occupying lesion affecting hormone secretion, surgical treatment can be considered. Removing the lesion can result in complete cure with a high cure rate.
5. Radioactive iodine-131 therapy is also an effective treatment option, but some patients may develop hypothyroidism in the long term.
To achieve a complete cure for hyperthyroidism, the appropriate treatment method should be selected based on individual conditions. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly.
