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Thyroid storm is a life-threatening condition that develops in cases of untreated thyrotoxicosis (hyperthyroidism).

Thyroid storm results from untreated hyperthyroidism. It is usually brought on by a stress such as trauma or infection.

Symptoms are severe and may include:

• Agitation
• Change in alertness (consciousness)
• Confusion
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Pounding heart (tachycardia)
• Restlessness
• Shaking
• Sweating

• The top number in a blood pressure reading may be high
• Increased heart rate

Blood tests are done to evaluate thyroid function.

Congestive heart failure and pulmonary edema can develop rapidly and lead to death.

This is an emergency condition. Call 911 or another emergency number if you have hyperthyroidism and experience these symptoms.

Thyrotoxic storm; Hyperthyroid storm

AACE Thyroid Task Force. American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists Medical Guidelines for Clinical Practice for the Evaluation and Treatment of Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism. Endocr Pract. 2002;8(6):459.

Ladenson P, Kim M. Thyroid. In: Goldman L and Ausiello D, eds. Goldman: Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa:Saunders; 2007:chap 244.

Updated by: Elizabeth H. Holt, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Section of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Yale University. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.