Graves' Disease

What is Graves' Disease?

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder that leads to over activity of the thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism).

The thyroid gland is an important organ of the endocrine system. It is located in the front of the neck just below the voice box. This gland releases the hormones thyroxin (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which control body metabolism. Controlling metabolism is critical for regulating mood, weight, and mental and physical energy levels.
If the body makes too much thyroid hormone, the condition is called hyperthyroidism. (An underactive thyroid leads to hypothyroidism.)Graves’ disease is most common in women over age 20. However, the disorder may occur at any age and may affect men as well.

Some of the Symptoms are:

•Anxiety
•Breast enlargement in men (possible)
•Difficulty concentrating
•Double vision
•Eyeballs that stick out (exophthalmos)
•Eye irritation and tearing
•Fatigue
•Heat intolerance
•Increased appetite
•Increased sweating
•Weight loss (rarely, weight gain)

Signs and tests

Physical examination shows an increased heart rate. Examination of the neck may show that the thyroid gland is enlarged (goiter).

Other tests include:

•Blood tests to measure levels of TSH, T3, and free T4
•Radioactive iodine uptake
•Thyroid stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI)
•Thyroid peroxidase (TPO) antibody
•Anti-TSH receptor antibody

Some of the eye problems related to Graves’ disease usually improve when hyperthyroidism is treated with medications, radiation, or surgery. Radioactive iodine can sometimes make eye problems worse. Eye problems are worse in people who smoke, even after the hyperthyroidism is cured.

Sometimes prednisone (a steroid medication that suppresses the immune system) is needed to reduce eye irritation and swelling. You may need to tape your eyes closed at night to prevent drying. Sunglasses and eye drops may reduce eye irritation. Rarely, surgery or radiation therapy (different from radioactive iodine) may be needed to return the eyes to their normal position.

Make the Call

Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of Graves’ disease. If your eye problems or general symptoms get worse (or do not improve) with treatment call Dr. Kristin Tarbet and make an appointment at 425.455.2131 or fill out or online contact form.