What may occur when too much thyroid hormone is present in the body?

The presence of excess thyroid hormone in the body, a condition known as hyperthyroidism, typically leads to an increase in metabolic rate. This heightened metabolic activity can cause the body to burn calories more rapidly, resulting in weight loss despite an increased appetite. Patients may experience symptoms such as increased heart rate, irritability, anxiety, and heat intolerance alongside this weight loss.

In contrast, weight gain and fatigue are more commonly associated with hypothyroidism, where insufficient thyroid hormone leads to a reduced metabolic rate. Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is not a direct effect of excess thyroid hormone and typically pertains to other conditions or imbalances. Understanding these physiological processes is vital for accurately identifying and treating conditions related to thyroid hormone levels.