The term Thyroid Storm refers to Thyrotoxicosis which occurs when an excessive amount of thyroid hormone is dumped into the blood stream. This condition is life threatening and requires immediate medical assistance. Anyone experiencing a Thyroid Storm will be admitted to the hospitals critical care unit for intensive medical treatment. Those who are prone to thyroid storm include those with untreated hyperthyroidism, those undergoing surgery on the thyroid, trauma victims and those infected with severe viral and bacterial infections.

The Symptoms of Thyroid Storm

Increased body temperature Tachycardia (rapid heart rate), Nausea/vomiting, Diarrhea, Heart palpitations, Heart failure, Pulmonary edema, Confusion, Seizure, Coma, Abdominal pain Jaundice.

There is a large increase in blood thyroid hormone level, accompanied by fever as high as 106 degrees. This condition can be caused by the following factors that include:

Stopping the required hyperthyroidism medications without consulting with the health care professional Ingesting too much of thyroid hormone causing an overdose Radioactive iodine treatments People with hyperactive thyroid conditions who are suffering from severe infection or illness Myocardial infarction (heart attack) in a person with hyperactive thyroid

Anyone who has an overactive thyroid, or hyperthyroidism can develop thyroid storm. It occurs when the thyroid secretes a large amount of thyroid hormone in a small amount of time.

If someone who has over active thyroid is experiencing fever, confusion, disorientation and rapid heartbeat should be admitted to the hospital immediately. Once admitted, a medical history will be taken and the medical professionals will perform diagnostic tests to analyze factors that include:

Blood cell count Electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, and calcium Blood sugar level Thyroid hormone levels will also be tested. Liver function test

What is the Treatment?

The goal of the medical professional is to decrease the amount of thyroid hormone produced or inhibit its production and release into the blood. This is done by:

The administration of PTU and methimazole in high dosages will inhibit production of thyroid hormone. Sodium iodide, potassium iodide, or Lugol’s solution can be administered to prevent the secretion of thyroxin. Beta blockers such as propranolol (Inderal, Inderal LA) to control heart rate, and IV steroids to enhance circulation.

If gone untreated, Thyrotoxicosis can result in:

• Coma
•  Heart failure
•  Liver failure
•  Stroke
•  Death

Further Treatment options include:

Administration of IV fluids and electrolytes. Oxygen via nasal cannula or face mask Medication and cooling towels to control fever Vitamins Antibiotics Iodine to block secretion of thyroid hormone Kidney dialysis Sedatives to induce rest Propranolol and dexamethasone to block hormone synthesis Antithyroid drugs and potassium iodine.

If you have a hyperactive thyroid, it is important to take your medication as prescribed by your physician. You can prevent thyroid storm by following your doctor’s orders. Knowing the signs and symptoms of thyroid storm can prevent treatment delay and enable you to call 911 right away.

Barb Hicks is a Licensed Registered Nurse who loves to writes and shares her knowledge with others. She is a featured writer on Clivir.com where she shared more resources about Thyroid Disease Problems and Natural Thyroid Therapy.

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