thyroid storm

medical disorder

Also known as: thyroid crisis

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Last updated

July 14, 2026

Quick Summary

A thyroid storm is a life-threatening medical emergency characterized by a sudden and severe exacerbation of hyperthyroidism symptoms. Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland produces an excess of thyroid hormone.123

This exacerbation can be triggered by various factors, including infection, surgery, or stress. Symptoms of a thyroid storm can include high fever, rapid heartbeat, jaundice, and in severe cases, heart failure, low blood pressure, shock, and death. Early diagnosis is critical and often relies on a patient's history, particularly if they have untreated hyperthyroidism or Graves' disease.123

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hyperthyroidism
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism
…severe form of hyperthyroidism is thyroid storm. This acute condition is characterized by very rapid heart rate, fever, hypertension (high blood pressure), and certain gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms and may result in heart failure, hypotension (low blood pressure), shock, and death.
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…severe form of hyperthyroidism is thyroid storm. This acute condition is characterized by very rapid heart rate, fever, hypertension (high blood pressure), and certain gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms and may result in heart failure, hypotension (low blood pressure), shock, and death.
Read More