Graves Disease Symptom Information

Graves' Disease is a disease that causes over-activity of the thyroid gland. It is named after Robert Graves, the 19th century Irish physician who first discovered the condition. No two Graves' disease patients are alike. It can sometimes be controlled by drugs; severe cases require partial or total removal of the thyroid gland . Graves' disease is also associated with other autoimmune disorders such as pernicious anaemia, vitiligo and myasthenia gravis. Risk factors are being a woman over 20 years old, although the disorder may occur at any age and may affect men.

Like most autoimmune disorders, Graves' disease is marked by variable periods of severity and remission. With a diagnosis of Graves Disease, it is also important to consider whether there is an underlying condition causing Graves Disease. The course of GD is unpredictable. The choice of treatment depends upon the age and overall condition of the patient, the size of thyroid gland, and patient preference.

Symptoms of Graves Disease

• trouble sleeping
• fatigue
• trouble getting pregnant
• frequent bowel movements
• irritability
• weight loss without dieting
• heat sensitivity
• increased sweating
• muscular weakness
• changes in vision or how your eyes look
• lighter menstrual flow
• rapid heart beat
• hand tremors

Treatment of Grave's Disease

Medical treatment of Graves' disease includes antithyroid drugs, radioactive iodine and thyroidectomy. The purpose of treatment is to control the overactivity of the thyroid gland. Beta-blockers such as propranolol are often used to treat symptoms of rapid heart rate, sweating, and anxiety until the hyperthyroidism is controlled. Treatments for Graves Disease include: Anti-thyroid drug therapy and Radioactive iodine (radioiodine) treatment