Living with Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis
A rare condition in which people with an overactive thyroid have episodes of muscle weakness or paralysis.
Understanding Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis
It typically begins in adulthood. Episodes of weakness can affect the legs or all four limbs. People often have an overactive thyroid, such as Graves disease.
Signs & symptoms
Symptoms vary from person to person. GARD lists these among the most common:
- Episodes of limp muscle weakness
- Paralysis, sometimes of all four limbs
- Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
- Low potassium during episodes (hypokalemia)
- Muscle spasms and stiffness
- Fast or pounding heartbeat (palpitations)
Not everyone has every symptom. GARD's list comes from the Human Phenotype Ontology.
Diagnosis
- 1Talk with your doctor
Share the symptoms you've noticed, when they started and your family health history. Notes and photos can help.
- 2See a specialist
Specialists who may be involved include brain and nervous system specialists and genetic specialists.
- 3Ask which tests can help
Your care team will decide which exams and tests can confirm the diagnosis.
Care & treatment
- Care team
- Brain and nervous system specialists (neurologists); Genetic specialists (geneticists)
- Expert care
- Ask about multidisciplinary care centers for rare conditions
- Treatment
- GARD doesn't list specific treatments for this condition. Your care team will tailor care to your symptoms.
- Research
- Clinical trials and observational studies may be options. See the research section below.
General information, not medical advice. Your care team makes the decisions.
Everyday life
Living with a rare condition is easier with support.
- Connect with Periodic Paralysis Association
- Keep notes on symptoms, changes and questions for appointments
- Ask about patient registries that help research
- Look into financial aid and travel resources for care visits
Quick facts
GARD says changes in genes (variants) cause this condition, but it doesn't name a specific gene. Episodes happen when the thyroid is overactive.
Also known as: hashitoxic periodic paralysis; thyrotoxic hypokalemic periodic paralysis
Patient organizations
- Periodic Paralysis AssociationThyrotoxic periodic paralysis · United States
You are more than your diagnosis
Perspectives from people navigating life with Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis.
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