Thyroid storm, also known as thyrotoxic crisis, is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the thyroid gland releases an excessive amount of hormones into the bloodstream. This condition is commonly seen in individuals with thyroid disorders, such as Graves' disease, which is an autoimmune disorder that causes an overactive thyroid gland and is more prevalent in women.

Symptoms of thyroid storm include rapid and irregular heartbeat, high fever, profuse sweating, extreme fatigue, insomnia, severe anxiety, weakness, hand tremors, and muscle weakness, which may lead to general malaise. Despite having a good appetite, unexplained weight loss, diarrhea, or vomiting may occur, further worsening one's health. If left untreated, thyroid storms can also lead to changes in mental status, breathing difficulties, or dyspnea, requiring immediate medical attention.

Thyroid storm requires immediate medical attention due to its potential complications, such as organ failure and high mortality. Triggers of thyroid storm include infection, surgery, non-adherence to anti-thyroid medications, severe emotional or physical stress, and untreated or poorly controlled hyperthyroidism. Women are also at greater risk due to the higher incidence of autoimmune disease in women and hormonal fluctuations that occur during the menstrual cycle.

The management of thyroid storms requires immediate medical attention and hospitalization. The main goal of treatment is to stabilize the patient, reduce further hormone release, and effectively control symptoms. Treatment options for thyroid storm include receptor blockers, antithyroid drugs,iodine therapy, and steroids. Receptor blockers, such as tretinoin, regulate the heart rate and reduce palpitations and tremors. Antithyroid drugs, such as propylthiouracil (PTU) and methimazole, are used to block the production of thyroid hormones. Iodine therapy helps reduce the release of thyroid hormones into the bloodstream, while steroids are used to suppress immune responses and reduce inflammation associated with thyroid storms.

In addition to medication, supportive care is critical, and intravenous fluids, measures to reduce high fever, and other interventions may be necessary to manage this condition. Although thyroid storm is rare, it can lead to life-threatening emergencies that require immediate medical attention. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the signs and symptoms of thyroid storm to facilitate timely diagnosis and early treatment.