Is Hyperthyroidism a Lifelong
Condition or Can It Be Cured?

Most People Will Deal With Hyperthyroidism for Life

Autoimmune disorders like Graves’ disease often play a role in hyperthyroidism. While these conditions can be managed with the appropriate treatment, they cannot be cured in the traditional sense. As a result, people with thyroid conditions related to autoimmune disorders may require treatment for life.

Hyperthyroidism can also result from benign growths called pituitary adenomas. In this case, removal of the growth may stop the gland from producing an excessive amount of thyroid hormone. Similarly, alleviating thyroid inflammation, a condition known as thyroiditis, can also stop thyroid overactivity.

How Is Hyperthyroidism Treated?

Regardless of whether hyperthyroidism can be cured, there are numerous treatments available that can help control symptoms of the condition. These treatments include:

• Medication – Medications like propylthiouracil and methimazole stop the thyroid from producing hormones, while drugs called beta blockers can treat the health effects associated with hyperthyroidism, such as rapid heartbeat.

• Radioiodine Therapy – Radioactive iodine can permanently damage thyroid cells, which stops overactivity. However, patients will need hormone replacement therapy to support proper function of the gland.

• Surgery – Like radioiodine therapy, surgical removal of the thyroid requires lifelong hormone replacement therapy. As a result, thyroidectomy procedures are typically reserved for special circumstances, such as when a person cannot tolerate other treatments.

Upon diagnosing hyperthyroidism, your doctor can discuss underlying causes and possible treatments.