Graves Disease

Overview

Graves disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes overproduction of thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones play an important role in a number of body systems. Therefore, Graves disease can affect your overall well-being significantly.

Signs and Symptoms

Intolerance to heat, Fine tremor, Weight loss despite normal eating habits, Palpitations, Goitre, Irritability and anxiety, Changes in menstrual cycle, Frequent bowel movements, Erectile dysfunction, Fatigue, Muscle weakness, Bulging eyes 

Common Causes

Malfunction in the immune system where thyrotropin receptor antibody (TRAb) or thyroid stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI) overrides the normal regulation of the thyroid hormones

Risk Factors

Family history of Graves disease, People in their 30s to 50s, Women are more likely to develop Graves disease, Pregnancy or recent childbirth, Having another autoimmune disorder such as rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes mellitus, celiac disease or pernicious anemia, Smoking

Investigation Techniques

Medical history, Physical examination, Blood tests including full blood count, thyroid function test, thyroid antibody test, Electrocardiogram (ECG), Radioactive iodine uptake test, Ultrasound of the thyroid gland, Thyroid scan

Treatment and Prevention

Antithyroid medications such as methimazole and propylthiouracil, Beta blockers, Radioactive iodine therapy, Surgery such as thyroidectomy or subtotal thyroidectomy, Learn to manage stress through coping techniques such as meditation

Psychological Issues

Emotional or physical stress due to illness or stressful life events