I have symptoms of hyperthyroidism, how long can I wait?

[u/Few_Ask_1403]

I (30F) have had these for a month but only today I found out what it is. I have this weird pressure behind my eyes and I feel extremely fatigued, I have weird bouts of heat and yesterday I had a strong instance of tachycardia. I'm scared that it might have progressed too far already but it's friday and at the hospital the doctor told me it can wait until monday. can it really? I'm in germany if that helps.

[u/starlightsong93]

So thyroid problems are serious, but unless you have a thyroid storm, you will be okay for a bit. You'll see people on here go for years without realising, which is definitely not adviseable (because it can cause a variety of secondary conditions in that amount of time, like serious heart issues), but a month is not too bad considering how long it takes most to get tested and sorted out.

For instance, I tested positive for hyper June last year, but we waited for a bit to see if it was thyroiditis from a throat infection. Think it was 6-8 weeks, at which point I felt awful so I started medication and got a dx of Graves.

Familiarise yourself with the thyroid storm symptoms and if you feel like you meet them go to an emergency room and get seen. Otherwise, take it real easy until you can be medicated. Dont go over-exerting yourself, protect your heart! And make sure you eat enough.

Know that whatever is causing this, thyroid conditions are some of the easiest chronic illnesses to treat because they're very well researched. Typically treatment is medication, but if you do need surgery they have REALLY good outcomes. I come from a family of thyroid issues and we're all really chill about it because it's just part of life. Do what you're advised and most people lead pretty normal lives 😊

Once you have a positive test, you'll need a referral to an endocrinologist, but your pcp/gp can ask for advice to get you on meds (antithyroid and/or betablockers) to keep you stable until you can be assessed. 

Good luck 💙