From the Research
Yes, myalgias (muscle pains) are a common symptom of hyperthyroidism. Patients with hyperthyroidism often experience muscle weakness, aches, and pains as part of their symptom complex. These muscle symptoms occur because excess thyroid hormone increases the body's metabolic rate, which can lead to increased protein breakdown in muscles and altered calcium metabolism. Additionally, the hypermetabolic state causes muscles to work harder and fatigue more easily, contributing to pain and discomfort. Other common muscular manifestations include proximal muscle weakness, especially in the thighs and shoulders, tremors, and muscle cramps. These symptoms typically improve once the underlying hyperthyroidism is treated with medications like methimazole or propylthiouracil, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery depending on the cause, as supported by studies such as 1. If you're experiencing muscle pains along with other symptoms like weight loss despite increased appetite, heat intolerance, anxiety, rapid heartbeat, or fatigue, it's essential to see a healthcare provider for proper evaluation of thyroid function. Some studies, such as 2 and 3, have quantitatively demonstrated the improvement in muscle strength and function after treatment of hyperthyroidism, highlighting the importance of addressing the condition to alleviate myalgias and other muscular symptoms. Moreover, a study from 4 emphasizes the impact of myalgia on the quality of life, underscoring the need for prompt diagnosis and treatment of hyperthyroidism to manage myalgias effectively. However, the most recent and relevant study to this question is 1, which directly addresses the impact of both overt and subclinical hyperthyroidism on skeletal muscle, providing insight into the broader spectrum of hyperthyroidism's effects on muscle health. Given the potential for significant improvement in symptoms with treatment, it is crucial for individuals experiencing myalgias and other symptoms suggestive of hyperthyroidism to seek medical evaluation.