Also known as: Graves' Disease (Autoimmune Hyperthyroidism)
Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes the thyroid gland to overproduce hormones (hyperthyroidism). It is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism in developed countries.
Graves' disease accounts for 70-80% of hyperthyroidism cases. Autoantibodies (TSH receptor antibodies) stimulate the thyroid to overproduce hormones.
The disease has a strong female predominance and genetic component, with concordance rates of 20-30% in identical twins. Smoking significantly worsens the risk of Graves' ophthalmopathy.
Graves' ophthalmopathy affects 25-50% of patients, causing eye bulging (proptosis), double vision, and in severe cases, vision-threatening compressive optic neuropathy.
People with Graves' Disease often experience the following symptoms.
Weight loss, rapid heartbeat, tremor, anxiety, heat intolerance, and increased sweating.
Eye bulging, redness, swelling, double vision, and eye pain from inflammation of orbital tissues.
Thick, waxy skin changes on the shins, a rare but characteristic finding.
Diffuse, smooth goitre (enlarged thyroid) with a bruit from increased blood flow.
Certain factors may increase your likelihood of developing Graves' Disease.
Common approaches to managing graves' disease. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized treatment.
Methimazole or propylthiouracil block thyroid hormone production. First-line in many countries.
Destroys thyroid tissue to permanently reduce hormone production. Most common definitive treatment in the US.
Surgical thyroid removal for large goitres, severe eye disease, or failed medical therapy.
Propranolol for symptomatic relief of rapid heartbeat, tremor, and anxiety while definitive treatment takes effect.
TSH suppressed, elevated Free T4 and/or T3, positive TSH receptor antibodies (TRAb), and thyroid uptake scan showing diffuse increased uptake.
See a doctor for unexplained weight loss, rapid heartbeat, heat intolerance, or eye bulging. Seek emergency care for thyroid storm (high fever, very rapid heart rate, confusion).
Steps that may help reduce the risk of developing or worsening graves' disease.
Stop smoking (especially protects against eye disease)
No other proven prevention
Regular thyroid monitoring with family history
Manage stress
If left untreated or poorly managed, graves' disease may lead to:
Antithyroid drugs can induce remission in 30-50%. Radioactive iodine and surgery are definitive but cause hypothyroidism requiring lifelong replacement.
Yes. About 30-50% achieve remission after 12-18 months of antithyroid medication.
No. Eye involvement occurs in 25-50% of patients and is more likely and severe in smokers.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.