What Is Thyroid Storm? Alarming Signs and How It’s Treated

A life-threatening condition known as a thyroid storm, can occur when the gland suddenly releases an excessive surge of hormones.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. L. Sudarshan Reddy, senior consultant physician, Yashoda Hospitals said, “A thyroid storm is a rare but severe complication of untreated or poorly managed hyperthyroidism. This is a critical condition that requires prompt medical attention and emergency care to save the affected person’s life.” Dr. L. Sudarshan Reddy explained the early warning signs of thyroid storm.

Alarming Manifestations of Thyroid Storm:

• Tremendously high fever (usually above 100°F).
• Tachycardia to an extreme level that means heart rates usually above 140 bpm.
• Serious anxiety, agitation, or irritability.
• Disorientation or confusion (can also cause loss of consciousness).
• Sweating and intolerance of heat.
• Gastrointestinal distress consisting of severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.
• In more severe instances, heart failure or jaundice.

“Due to racing heartbeat, high fever, anxiety, a patient might feel shaky, nauseated, confused and overwhelmed. This is a medical crisis that requires immediate hospitalisation,” Dr L. Sudarshan Reddy explained.

Risk Factors:

• Patients with untreated hyperthyroidism, particularly those with conditions such as Graves’ disease or toxic thyroid nodules.
• More often affected are women than men.
• The majority of patients having a thyroid storm are between their early 40s.

How is Thyroid Storm Treated?

Doctors use function tests and viral monitoring to diagnose thyroid storm. After hospitalizing the patient, they focus treatment on stabilizing vital signs and reducing hormone levels.

The Following is Included in the Treatment Plan:

• IV fluids and electrolytes to normalize dehydration.
• Measures to cool the body to decrease body temperature.
• Oxygen therapy for breathing assistance.
• Beta blockers (typically IV) to retard heart rate and decrease cardiac stress.
• Anti-thyroid medications (thionamides) to inhibit hormone production.
• Iodine to block the release of hormones.
• Steroids (glucocorticoids) to decrease inflammation and hormone conversion.
• Supportive therapy to treat anxiety and organ stress.