Symptom 3. Increased Sensitivity to Heat – A Scorching Reality
Many men suffering from Graves’ disease often find themselves battling an increased sensitivity to heat. If you’re always the first to break a sweat, even in a comfortably cool room, or if you find yourself constantly seeking the comfort of air conditioners or fans, you might be experiencing this symptom.
The crux of this symptom lies, once again, in the overactive thyroid gland and the consequent surge in metabolic rate. Metabolism refers to all the chemical processes that occur within a living organism to maintain life. These processes generate heat as a byproduct.
In normal circumstances, this heat production is balanced by heat loss, maintaining a steady body temperature. However, in Graves’ disease, the increased metabolism results in excess heat production, leading to increased body temperature and heat intolerance.
This sensitivity to heat extends beyond mere discomfort; it can have several knock-on effects that disrupt daily life. For instance, excessive sweating can lead to dehydration if fluid intake isn’t increased proportionally. Dehydration can then lead to several health problems, including kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and, in severe cases, kidney failure.
Furthermore, this incessant heat intolerance can cause sleep disturbances. Overheating at night can lead to restless sleep or insomnia, which can result in fatigue, decreased cognitive function, and mood swings. Over time, poor sleep quality can lead to chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. (3)
