Contents
What Exactly is Graves' Disease?
Published: Mar 08, 2024
Graves' disease is a condition that revs up your thyroid, leading to a hyperactive body. Let's dive into how this impacts your health.
Understanding Graves' Disease
Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder where the body mistakenly attacks the thyroid, causing it to produce too much thyroid hormone. This hormone is like fuel, and too much of it can make your body run too hot. Symptoms range from weight loss and rapid heartbeat to anxiety and sweating.
Why It Matters
An overactive thyroid can have serious health implications if left untreated. It can strain your heart, bones, and mental health. Recognizing and treating this condition early can prevent long-term damage and improve quality of life.
Treatment Options
Treating Graves' disease often involves medications, radioactive iodine, or surgery to calm the thyroid. Medications like thionamides can help manage symptoms by reducing hormone production. Doctors will tailor treatment based on individual health needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Graves' disease is caused by an immune system attack on the thyroid.
While not curable, it can be effectively managed with treatment.
Symptoms include rapid heartbeat, weight loss, and anxiety.
The Bottom Line
Graves' disease needs attention and care, but with the right treatment, you can control its impact.
References
- Ross DS, Burch HB, et al. 2016 ATA Guidelines for Diagnosis and Management of Hyperthyroidism. Thyroid 2016; 26:1343.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?