Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder dealing with an overactive thyroid gland. This is a type of hyperthyroidism. This disease is more common in the female population and often pops up after childbirth. Graves' disease is also a very hereditary illness and if one part of a set of identical twins shows symptoms of the disease then there’s a 25% likelihood that the other twin will also.

Most systems in the body are affected by this disease. Symptoms can include bulging eyes, muscle weakness, and hand tremors. The thyroid also usually enlarges to twice its normal size. Those with the disease also see a lot of weight loss despite an increased want to eat. Insomnia and anxiety also often occur in those with the disease.

            When trying to diagnose patients, doctors will check the neck to see if the thyroid has been enlarged. Another test includes testing blood to measure levels of TSH, T3, and T4 (hormones produced by the thyroid). Signs of this disease at early stages include fatigue, bulging eyes, and lack of concentration.

            The whole idea for treating this disease is to control the overactive thyroid gland. Symptoms are usually treated until the hyperthyroidism can be controlled. Surgery and radiation are a common treatment but if used, the patient must start taking replacement thyroid hormones and keep taking them for the rest of their lives. However, the bulging eyes are another problem that can’t be helped by the treatment of the disease as the radioactive iodine they use might make the situation worse. Sometimes steroids that suppress the immune system can reduce irritation and swelling but usually the eyes will have to be taped shut at night to avoid dryness.

            Treatment is usually taken well but can sometimes lead to hypothyroidism which can cause depression, mental and physical sluggishness, and weight gain. Complications from treatment may arise such as scarring from surgery, atrial fibrillation, or an increased risk for osteoporosis. The most cost effective treatment, a total thyroidectomy can cost around 19,300 US dollars. One needs to realize what option would be best and would fit into their lifestyles.

 

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