The specialist explained the link between ADHD and thyroid diseases

Hyperactivity, manifested in excessive motor activity, impulsivity and impaired concentration, may be a consequence of increased thyroid function. Kirill Masliev, Candidate of Medical Sciences, member of the State Council Commission on Active Long—term Life, Head of the Department of Preventive Medicine at the Rudn University, founder of the Heroes Charitable Foundation, told Izvestia on July 30 about the relationship between hyperactivity and hyperthyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland produces excessive amounts of hormones.

According to the expert, hyperthyroidism increases metabolism, which leads to an excess of energy, and the central nervous system becomes more sensitive to the hormones of arousal — adrenaline and norepinephrine. These symptoms are similar to those of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

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Masliev noted that hyperthyroidism can develop for several reasons: diffuse toxic goiter (Graves' disease), excess iodine, elevated levels of thyroxine (T4) in the blood. The condition can also occur when taking certain levothyroxine supplements or medications prescribed for thyroid dysfunction.

"Hyperthyroidism is associated with increased activity of the thyroid gland, whereas thyrotoxicosis means a high level of hormones, which can be caused by various factors, including illness or medication," the specialist explained.

To diagnose hyperthyroidism, it is necessary to take a blood test for thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), T3 and T4. Normalization of hormone levels with the help of special medications can lead to the disappearance of symptoms of hyperactivity, if they were caused by this particular disorder.

Masliev warned that hyperthyroidism requires mandatory treatment, as it can lead to serious complications: heart failure, liver and kidney diseases, osteoporosis and prolonged diarrhea. It is especially dangerous to ignore this condition in children, trying to "treat" hyperactivity with punishments.

In conclusion, the expert emphasized that hyperthyroidism is not the only possible cause of ADHD, and a comprehensive examination is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis.

Earlier, on March 16, psychiatrist Alexei Maroyan spoke about the symptoms of ADHD and treatment methods. He noted that children with ADHD are restless and impulsive.