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Risk Factors for Hyperthyroidism

Authors:
  • Amy Scholten, MPH
Publication Type:

ConditionInDepth

Risk Factors for Hyperthyroidism

A risk factor is something that raises a person's chances of getting a disease or health problem. A person can have hyperthryoidism with or without the risks below. The more risks a person has, the greater the chances are.

Hyperthyroidism is more common in women. It is also more common in people over 60. Other things that raise the risk are:

  • Family members with Graves disease
  • Certain health problems, such as:
    • Diabetes
    • Pernicious anemia, from a vitamin B12 deficiency
    • Primary adrenal insufficiency
  • Smoking
  • Taking iodine supplements or medicines that contain iodine
  • Eating large amounts of food that is high in iodine
  • Being pregnant within the last 6 months

References

  • Hyperthyroidism (thyrotoxicosis). Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/endocrine-and-metabolic-disorders/thyroid-disorders/hyperthyroidism.
  • Hyperthyroidism and thyrotoxicosis. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/hyperthyroidism-and-other-causes-of-thyrotoxicosis-37.
  • Hyperthyroidism. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/endocrine-diseases/hyperthyroidism.
  • Vaidya B, Pearce SH. Diagnosis and management of thyrotoxicosis. Brit Med J. 2014;349:g5128.

Contributors

  • Mark Arredondo, MD
Last Updated:
2022-11-01

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.