Graves’ disease is a type of endocrine autoimmune disorder. It triggers the thyroid and causes overactive responses. The thyroid is a special type of hormone-producing gland, responsible for many different bodily functions, including metabolism regulation and how the heart beats. This disease is a type of hyperthyroidism. It can affect anyone of any age, but occurs more commonly in people between 30 and 50 years old. People with a family history and people with other autoimmune conditions are more likely to develop the disease.
Graves’ disease can directly affect the body’s energy usage by interfering in normal thyroid function. If left untreated, this disease can lead to serious problems with the bones, heart, and muscles. It can also affect fertility, the eyes, and skin.
Causes of Graves’ Disease
A proper functioning thyroid secretes hormones that control metabolism, which in turn controls how the body regulates energy. A specific chemical called thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) has the job of providing orders to the thyroid. This chemical is produced by the pituitary gland. People with Graves’ disease have an immune system malfunction that produces a chemical that acts like TSH. In turn, this chemical tricks the thyroid into running full steam and producing more metabolic chemicals.
The medical community does not yet know why the immune system starts going haywire in Graves’ disease. Research has shown that heredity has a large role in the development of the disease. Women are also more likely to develop Graves’ disease. There is no specific way to determine who will develop it and who will not.
Symptoms of Graves’ Disease
Many of the symptoms that present with hyperthyroidism also occur with Graves’ disease. Excessive weight loss, fatigue, muscle weakness, and hand tremors are common symptoms. Sufferers may also experience rapid heart rate, nervousness, and difficulty sleeping. The occurrence of these symptoms may also lead to a development of heat intolerance and swelling of the thyroid. Rare symptoms include a thickened, red area on the shin and eyelid retraction that causes the appearance of enlarged eyes.
As symptoms persist and continue unmanaged, psychological symptoms may occur. Sufferers can experience fear as they learn about the disease and what to expect. Depression can begin due to physical discomfort and lack of proper sleep. Issues with sleep and other symptoms may lead to irritability.
Treating Graves’ Disease
Graves’ disease can be treated through one or more of three methods. Medications to counter the thyroid may be recommended as the first course of treatment. These medications work to slow down thyroid function. Autoimmune medications have the ability to combat the immune system’s assault on the thyroid. Until these medications begin working effectively, others can be given to calm the symptoms.
Radioiodine therapy and surgery are two other treatment methods. In radioiodine therapy, a radioactive iodine is provided, in pill form. The thyroid needs iodine to function. Iodine is used by the thyroid, and the radiation works to destroy overactive thyroid cells. Surgery involves removing part or all of the thyroid and is often used when other treatments have been unsuccessful. Surgical removal requires hormone supplementation.
Graves’ disease can wreak havoc on the body, but it can be treated. Symptoms can be managed. Treatments are available, but lifestyle changes are also required. Sufferers must learn to adjust dietary and exercise routines as well as avoiding excessive stress levels.