What are the symptoms of suppressed Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH)?

From the Guidelines

Suppressed TSH is typically associated with symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, nervousness, rapid or irregular heartbeat, hand tremors, increased sweating, heat intolerance, weight loss, frequent bowel movements, muscle weakness, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and menstrual irregularities in women, as excess thyroid hormones accelerate the body's metabolic processes, affecting multiple organ systems 1.

Symptoms of Suppressed TSH

The symptoms of suppressed TSH can vary depending on the individual and the underlying cause of the condition. Common symptoms include:

• Anxiety, irritability, and nervousness
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Hand tremors
• Increased sweating and heat intolerance
• Weight loss despite normal or increased appetite
• Frequent bowel movements
• Muscle weakness and fatigue
• Difficulty sleeping
• Menstrual irregularities in women Some people may also experience bulging eyes (exophthalmos), particularly if the cause is Graves' disease. Elderly patients might show fewer classic symptoms and instead present with heart problems or unexplained weight loss.

Severity of Symptoms

The severity of symptoms typically correlates with the degree of TSH suppression and the elevation of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) 1. It is essential to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis through blood tests measuring thyroid function, as treatment depends on identifying the underlying cause, which may include conditions like Graves' disease, toxic nodular goiter, or excessive thyroid medication.

High-Risk Groups

Certain groups are at higher risk for thyroid dysfunction, including the elderly, postpartum women, those with high levels of radiation exposure (>20 mGy), and patients with Down syndrome 1. Clinicians should be aware of subtle signs of thyroid dysfunction, particularly among those at high risk. Evaluating for symptoms of hypothyroidism can be difficult in patients with Down syndrome, as some symptoms and signs are typical findings in both conditions.

Recommendation

If you experience symptoms of suppressed TSH, seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment, as early intervention can improve morbidity, mortality, and quality of life outcomes 1.

From the Research

Symptoms of Suppressed TSH

• Anxiety 2
• Insomnia 2
• Palpitations 2
• Unintentional weight loss 2
• Diarrhea 2
• Heat intolerance 2
• Tachycardia 3
• Tremor 3

Additional Symptoms in Specific Cases

• In patients with Graves' disease:
  • Diffusely enlarged thyroid gland 2
  • Stare or exophthalmos on examination 2
• In patients with toxic nodules:
  • Symptoms from local compression of structures in the neck by the thyroid gland, such as:
    • Dysphagia 2
    • Orthopnea 2
    • Voice changes 2

Complications of Untreated Hyperthyroidism

• Cardiac arrhythmias 2
• Heart failure 2
• Osteoporosis 2
• Adverse pregnancy outcomes 2
• Increased mortality 2