Panic Attacks and Palpitations: Are They Signs of Hyperthyroidism?

by Mary J. Shomon

Many people don't realize that panic attacks can be a common symptom of hyperthyroidism or the autoimmune disease Graves' disease. Some patients are even misdiagnosed as having panic disorder, when they are actually hyperthyroid.

Most people who are hyperthyroid will find that once properly treated, panic attacks become a thing of the past. But if you've been treated for hyperthyroidism, and are still experiencing these episodes, you and your doctor may need to explore alternatives, including ruling out things such as mitral valve prolapse and ensuring that thyroid medications are in balance. Finally, if you and your doctor cannot determine any condition-related reasons for your panic attacks, you may in fact have a panic or anxiety disorder.

For an in-depth treatment of the connections between panic attacks and thyroid disease, visit this [link url=http://www.thyroid-info.com/articles/palpitations.htm]online guide.

To find out how this condition is diagnosed and treated, start your self-education process at [link url=http://panicdisorder.about.com]About's excellent Panic/Anxiety Disorders site, led by guide Cathleen Henning. Several of her articles to help get you started include:

• Panic Disorder Defined
• You Think You Might Have Panic Disorder What Now?
• Panic Disorders Basics / Web Links