This small gland in your neck plays a big role in regulating how your body uses energy. When it becomes overactive – a condition known as hyperthyroidism – it produces excess hormones that push the body into overdrive.

That can lead to a range of symptoms, including unexplained weight loss, heat intolerance, excessive sweating, and a rapid heartbeat.

You might also experience anxiety, irritability, insomnia, shaky hands, and even more frequent bowel movements.

Over time, this constant state of overactivity can take a toll on both physical and emotional wellbeing. Left untreated, hyperthyroidism can affect the heart, bones and overall health.

Why it can feel like stress

Hyperthyroidism and stress can feel surprisingly similar. Both affect the body’s energy levels, heart rate and alertness, which is why symptoms such as restlessness, fatigue and mood changes are often mistaken for burnout.

However, there is one key difference: stress-related symptoms tend to come and go depending on circumstances. Thyroid-related symptoms, on the other hand, are usually persistent and may gradually worsen over time.

In some cases, additional signs such as neck swelling or bulging eyes may also point to a thyroid issue.

If your symptoms do not quite match typical stress, it may be worth looking a little closer. Watch out for:

• unexplained weight loss despite eating normally;
• feeling unusually warm or sweating more than usual;
• a consistently fast heartbeat, even at rest;
• frequent bowel movements;
• hair thinning, brittle nails or dry skin;
• mood changes that feel out of proportion to your situation.

A simple blood test, known as a thyroid function test, can confirm whether your thyroid is the cause.

What causes an overactive thyroid?

Hyperthyroidism can be triggered by several factors, including autoimmune conditions such as Graves’ disease, as well as periods of intense physical or emotional stress.

In the early stages, the increased metabolism may make you feel more energetic. But over time, the constant stimulation often leads to fatigue and burnout.

If you suspect a thyroid issue, it is important to seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment.

In the meantime, gentle lifestyle adjustments may help ease symptoms. These include eating a balanced diet, managing stress, engaging in moderate exercise, and limiting stimulants such as excessive caffeine.

However, these steps are only supportive and not a substitute for medical care.

Treatment and outlook

Treatment for hyperthyroidism depends on the underlying cause and may include medication, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery in more severe cases.

With appropriate treatment, most people are able to return to a normal quality of life.

The key is not to ignore persistent symptoms. Stress is real and can affect the body in many ways, but if something feels off for longer than it should, it may be worth looking beyond stress and checking if your thyroid is trying to tell you something.

This article was written by Dr Radhamani Rajakumar, consultant internal medicine physician and endocrinologist.