Hyperthyroidism is suggested by several signs and symptoms; however, patients with mild disease usually experience no symptoms. In patients older than 70 years, the typical signs and symptoms also may be absent. In general, the symptoms become more obvious as the degree of hyperthyroidism increases. The symptoms usually are related to an increase in the metabolic rate of the body.

Symptoms and Signs of Hyperthyroidism in TCM:
1. Qi and Phlegm Stagnation 
Chief Manifestations: Thyroid enlargement which feels soft and painless, distending sensation in the neck, sensation of obstruction in the throat, irritability, chest distress, hypochondriac pain, trembling fingers, patient's condition influenced by emotions, pale red tongue with thin and white coating, wiry and smooth pulse.

2. Liver Fire Attacking the Stomach
Chief Manifestations: Moderate thyroid enlargement which feels soft and smooth, severe thirst, polydipsia, profuse sweating, ocular proptosis, trembling fingers, facial hotness, polyorexia, emaciation, constipation, red tongue with yellow coating, wiry and rapid pulse.

3. Deficiency of Both Oi and Yin
Chief Manifestations: Palpitation, short breath, restlessness, sleeplessness, lassitude, impaired appetite, loose stools, spontaneous sweating, emaciation, mild thyroid enlargement, red tongue with little coating, deep and thready pulse or thready rapid and forceless pulse.

4. Deficiency of Heart Yin and Liver Yin
Chief Manifestations: Thyroid enlargement which feels soft, palpitation, restlessness, sleeplessness, profuse sweating, trembling fingers, dizziness, red tongue with thin coating, thready and rapid pulse.