Tremors and hyperkinetic movements are frequently seen and are caused by the effect of excess thyroid hormone on the nervous system. Muscle wasting can be so dramatic that patients may have difficulty climbing stairs. Thyrotoxicosis may affect the heart, causing shortness of breath and an increased heart rate, pulse, and blood pressure. Thyrotoxicosis also causes an increased metabolism characterized by increased body temperature, gastrointestinal disturbances and nutrient deficiencies. Blood tests in GD reflect these metabolic changes.
Cholesterol levels are typically low.
Besides not being properly absorbed, blood lipids, such as cholesterol and HDL, are tied up transporting thyroid hormone. Changes in bone resorption cause an increased level of the enzyme alkaline phosphatase and increased serum calcium levels. Over time, these changes, especially in postmenopausal women, can result in osteoporosis. Reproductive changes are also commonly seen. Graves' disease, like most autoimmune disorders, has symptoms that wax and wane.