What condition is caused by excessive thyroid hormones?

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Thyrotoxicosis is a condition characterized by an excess of thyroid hormones in the bloodstream, leading to various physiological symptoms. When the thyroid gland produces too much hormone, it can lead to an overactive metabolism, resulting in symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, weight loss, increased appetite, anxiety, and heat intolerance. While hyperthyroidism is a common cause of thyrotoxicosis, the term itself encompasses any situation where there is an excess of thyroid hormone, whether due to gland overactivity or other factors, such as ingestion of thyroid medication or hormone leakage from inflamed thyroid tissue.

Understanding this distinction is crucial because it helps identify not just the condition itself but also its potential underlying causes and treatment approaches. It is important to note that hyperthyroidism refers specifically to the overactivity of the thyroid gland, while thyrotoxicosis describes the overall clinical state resulting from excess thyroid hormones, making it a broader and more inclusive term.

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