Final answer:
The most common complication of a hyperthyroid state is thyrotoxicosis, which can lead to various symptoms and complications such as cardiovascular effects, osteoporosis, thyroid storm, eye problems, and psychiatric symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common complication of a hyperthyroid state, whether it is due to endogenous hyperthyroidism or iatrogenic over-replacement of levothyroxine for hypothyroidism, is thyrotoxicosis. Thyrotoxicosis refers to the presence of excess thyroid hormone in the body, which can lead to a variety of symptoms and complications.
Some of the most common complications of hyperthyroidism include:
- Cardiovascular effects: Hyperthyroidism can cause an increased heart rate, palpitations, and irregular heart rhythms.
- Osteoporosis: Excessive thyroid hormone can lead to bone loss and increase the risk of fractures.
- Thyroid storm: This is a rare but life-threatening condition characterized by an extreme exacerbation of thyrotoxicosis, resulting in high fever, rapid heartbeat, and altered mental state.
- Eye problems: In Graves disease, which is a common cause of hyperthyroidism, there can be eye-related complications such as bulging eyes (Graves ophthalmopathy).
- Psychiatric symptoms: Hyperthyroidism can cause anxiety, irritability, and mood disturbances.