How to prepare for a video visit about Hyperthyroidism (Mild) - Triage

Audience: adult

If you have mild hyperthyroidism, preparing well for your video visit can help you get the most from your time with your healthcare provider. Mild hyperthyroidism means your thyroid gland is making a bit too much thyroid hormone, which can cause symptoms like feeling anxious, having a fast heartbeat, or trouble sleeping. During the video visit, your provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and may suggest tests to understand your condition better. This guide helps you get ready by gathering important information, knowing what to expect, and understanding when to seek urgent care. Remember, telemedicine can help with education and follow-up but may not replace in-person exams if your symptoms worsen. Being prepared helps your healthcare provider give you the best advice and support for managing your thyroid health safely.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Chest pain or pressure, especially if it spreads to your arm or jaw — seek emergency care immediately.
• Sudden shortness of breath or difficulty breathing — call emergency services right away.
• Sudden weakness, confusion, fainting, or seizures — get urgent medical help immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing mild symptoms and their changes over time.
• Reviewing medication side effects and adherence.
• Providing education about hyperthyroidism and lifestyle advice.
• Ordering and reviewing lab tests for thyroid function.
• Guiding when to seek in-person care or emergency services.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Evaluating severe or rapidly worsening symptoms.
• Performing physical exams like checking your neck for swelling.
• Managing thyroid storm or other emergencies.
• Administering treatments that require in-person visits, such as injections or surgery.

What is Mild Hyperthyroidism?

Mild hyperthyroidism happens when your thyroid gland produces slightly more thyroid hormone than usual. This hormone controls your body's energy use. When levels are high, you might feel restless, have a faster heartbeat, or feel warm more often. Mild means symptoms are usually not severe but still need attention to prevent problems.

How Telemedicine Can Help

A video visit lets you talk with your healthcare provider from home. They can review your symptoms, discuss your medical history, and help decide if you need tests or treatment. Telemedicine is good for follow-up visits or mild symptoms but may not replace physical exams if symptoms are serious.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your visit, write down your symptoms, when they started, and if anything makes them better or worse. Have a list of your current medicines and any allergies. Find a quiet, well-lit place with good internet. Make sure your device camera and microphone work. Prepare questions you want to ask your provider.

What to Expect During the Visit

Your provider will ask about your symptoms, such as heart rate changes, mood, and sleep. They may ask about your medical history and family history of thyroid problems. They might suggest blood tests or imaging to check your thyroid. They will talk about treatment options and next steps.

When to Seek Urgent Care

If you experience severe symptoms like chest pain, difficulty breathing, sudden weakness, or confusion, seek emergency medical care immediately. These could be signs of a thyroid crisis or other serious problems that cannot be managed via telemedicine.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• List your current symptoms and when they started.
• Write down any medicines, supplements, or herbal products you take.
• Note any allergies or previous thyroid problems.
• Find a quiet, private space with good lighting for your video visit.
• Test your device’s camera, microphone, and internet connection beforehand.
• Prepare questions or concerns to discuss with your provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any instructions your provider gives about medications or tests.
• Schedule any recommended lab tests or follow-up visits.
• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes or new symptoms.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new red flags appear.
• Keep a record of your thyroid hormone levels and treatments for future visits.

FAQs

What causes mild hyperthyroidism?

Mild hyperthyroidism can be caused by conditions like Graves' disease, thyroid nodules, or inflammation of the thyroid. Sometimes, the exact cause may not be clear without tests.

Can mild hyperthyroidism go away on its own?

In some cases, mild hyperthyroidism may improve without treatment, especially if caused by temporary thyroid inflammation. However, it often requires monitoring and sometimes treatment to prevent complications.

What tests might my provider order?

Your provider may order blood tests to measure thyroid hormone levels (like TSH, T3, and T4) and antibodies. Imaging tests like an ultrasound may be used if needed.

Are there lifestyle changes that can help?

Yes, managing stress, avoiding excessive iodine intake, and getting enough rest can help support thyroid health. Your provider can give specific advice based on your situation.

When should I seek emergency care for hyperthyroidism?

Seek emergency care if you have chest pain, trouble breathing, sudden weakness, confusion, or seizures. These symptoms may indicate a thyroid crisis or other serious conditions.

Sources

1. Hyperthyroidism — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Thyroid Disease: Hyperthyroidism — Mayo Clinic.
3. Hyperthyroidism — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Hyperthyroidism — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have severe symptoms or concerns, please seek immediate medical attention or consult your healthcare provider in person.