Graves' disease Causes - Mayo Clinic Thyroid gland Graves' disease is caused by a malfunction in the body's disease-fighting immune system, although the exact reason why this happens is still unknown. One normal immune system response is the production of antibodies designed to target a specific virus, bacterium or other foreign substance. In Graves' disease — for reasons that aren't well understood — the body produces an antibody to one part of the cells in the thyroid gland, a hormone-producing gland in the neck. Normally, thyroid function is regulated by a hormone released by a tiny gland at the base of the brain (pituitary gland). The antibody associated with Graves' disease — thyrotropin receptor antibody (TRAb) — acts like the regulatory pituitary hormone. That means that TRAb overrides the normal regulation of the thyroid, causing an overproduction of thyroid hormones (hyperthyroidism). Cause of Graves' ophthalmopathy This condition results from a buildup of certain carbohydrates in the skin — the cause of which also isn't known. It appears that the same antibody that can cause thyroid dysfunction may also have an "attraction" to tissues surrounding the eyes.

Graves' ophthalmopathy often appears at the same time as hyperthyroidism or several months later. But signs and symptoms of ophthalmopathy may appear years before or after the onset of hyperthyroidism. Graves' ophthalmopathy can also occur even if there's no hyperthyroidism. Bartalena L. Diagnosis and management of Graves disease: A global overview. Nature Reviews Endocrinology. 2013;9:724. Graves' disease. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Accessed March 9, 2014. Longo DL, et al. Harrison's Online. 18th ed. New York, N.Y.: The McGraw-Hill Companies; 2012. Accessed March 9, 2014. Papadakis MA, ed., et al. Current Medical Diagnosis & Treatment 2014. 53rd ed. New York, N.Y.: The McGraw-Hill Companies; 2014. Accessed March 9, 2014. Falgarone G, et al. Role of emotional stress in the pathophysiology of Graves' disease.

European Journal of Endocrinology. 2013;168:R13. Ross DS. Treatment of Graves' hyperthyroidism. Accessed March 9, 2014. Genovese BM, et al. What is the best definitive treatment for Graves' disease? A systematic review of the existing literature. Annals of Surgical Oncology. 2013;20:660. Mayo CH. The surgical treatment of goiter. The Journal of the American Medical Association. 1904;XLII:1059. Riggin EA. Decision Support System. Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. March 3, 2014. Products and Services Graves' Disease Symptoms and Causes What Causes Graves' Disease? What Is Graves' Disease? First described by Sir Robert Graves in the early 19th century, Graves' disease is one of the most common of all thyroid problems . It is also the leading cause of hyperthyroidism , a condition in which the thyroid gland produces excessive hormones. Once the disorder has been correctly diagnosed, it is quite easy to treat.

In some cases, Graves' disease goes into remission or disappears completely after several months or years. Left untreated, however, it can lead to serious complications -- even death. Although the symptoms can cause discomfort, Graves' disease generally has no long-term adverse health consequences if the patient receives prompt and proper medical care. What Causes Graves' Disease? Hormones secreted by the thyroid gland control metabolism , or the speed at which the body converts food into energy. Metabolism is directly linked to the amount of hormones that circulate in the bloodstream. If, for some reason, the thyroid gland secretes an overabundance of these hormones, the body's metabolism goes into high gear, producing the pounding heart , sweating , trembling, and weight loss typically experienced by hyperthyroid people. Normally, the thyroid gets its production orders through another chemical called thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), released by the pituitary gland in the brain . But in Graves' disease, a malfunction in the body's immune system releases abnormal antibodies that mimic TSH. Spurred by these false signals to produce, the thyroid's hormone factories work overtime and exceed their normal quota. Exactly why the immune system begins to produce these aberrant antibodies is unclear.

Heredity and other characteristics seem to play a role in determining susceptibility. Studies show, for example, that if one identical twin contracts Graves' disease, there is a 20% likelihood that the other twin will get it, too. Also, women are more likely than men to develop the disease. And smokers who develop Graves' disease are more prone to eye problems than nonsmokers with the disease. No single gene causes Graves’ disease. It is thought to be triggered by both genetics and environmental factors, such as stress. Eye trouble -- usually in the form of inflamed and swollen eye muscles and tissues that can cause the eyeballs to protrude from their sockets -- is a distinguishing complication of Graves' disease. However, only a small percentage of all Graves' patients will experience this condition, known as exophthalmos. Even among those who do, the severity of their bout with Graves' has no bearing on the seriousness of the eye problem or how far the eyeballs protrude. In fact, it isn't clear whether such eye complications stem from Graves' disease itself or from a totally separate, yet closely linked, disorder. If you have developed exophthalmos, your eyes may ache and feel dry and irritated.

Protruding eyeballs are prone to excessive tearing and redness, partly because the eyelids can no longer shelter them effectively from injury. Continued In severe cases of exophthalmos, which are rare, swollen eye muscles can put tremendous pressure on the optic nerve, possibly leading to partial blindness. Eye muscles weakened by long periods of inflammation can lose their ability to control movement, resulting in double vision . Rarely, people develop a skin condition known as pretibial myxedema. It is a lumpy reddish thickening of the skin on the shins. It is usually painless and is not serious. Like exophthalmos this condition does not necessarily begin with the onset of Graves' nor does it correlate with the severity of the disease. WebMD Medical Reference Reviewed by Jennifer Robinson, MD on March 09, 2015 Sources Thyroid Problems, Disease - Symptoms, Causes, and Diagnosis What Causes Thyroid Problems? What Are Thyroid Problems? Through the hormones it produces, the thyroid gland influences almost all of the metabolic processes in your body. Thyroid disorders can range from a small, harmless goiter (enlarged gland) that needs no treatment to life-threatening cancer .

The most common thyroid problems involve abnormal production of thyroid hormones. Too much thyroid hormone results in a condition known as hyperthyroidism . Insufficient hormone production leads to hypothyroidism . Although the effects can be unpleasant or uncomfortable, most thyroid problems can be managed well if properly diagnosed and treated. What Causes Thyroid Problems? All types of hyperthyroidism are due to an overproduction of thyroid hormones, but the condition can occur in several ways: Graves' disease : The production of too much thyroid hormone. Toxic adenomas: Nodules develop in the thyroid gland and begin to secrete thyroid hormones, upsetting the body's chemical balance; some goiters may contain several of these nodules. Subacute thyroiditis: Inflammation of the thyroid that causes the gland to "leak" excess hormones, resulting in temporary hyperthyroidism that generally lasts a few weeks but may persist for months. Pituitary gland malfunctions or cancerous growths in the thyroid gland: Although rare, hyperthyroidism can also develop from these causes. Hypothyroidism , by contrast, stems from an underproduction of thyroid hormones.

Since your body's energy production requires certain amounts of thyroid hormones, a drop in hormone production leads to lower energy levels. Causes of hypothyroidism include: Hashimoto's thyroiditis : In this autoimmune disorder , the body attacks thyroid tissue. The tissue eventually dies and stops producing hormones. Removal of the thyroid gland: The thyroid may have been surgically removed or chemically destroyed. Exposure to excessive amounts of iodide: Cold and sinus medicines, the heart medicine amiodarone , or certain contrast dyes given before some X-rays may expose you to too much iodine.You may be at greater risk for developing hypothyroidism if you have had thyroid problems in the past. Lithium : This drug has also been implicated as a cause of hypothyroidism. Untreated for long periods of time, hypothyroidism can bring on a myxedema coma , a rare but potentially fatal condition that requires immediate hormone treatment. Continued Hypothyroidism poses a special danger to newborns and infants. A lack of thyroid hormones in the system at an early age can lead to the development of cretinism ( mental retardation ) and dwarfism (stunted growth). Most infants now have their thyroid levels checked routinely soon after birth.

If they are hypothyroid, treatment begins immediately. In infants, as in adults, hypothyroidism can be due to these causes: A pituitary disorder Graves' Disease - Symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment Unplanned weight loss . Causes Graves' disease is caused by the body's immune system wrongly attacking part of the body - called an autoimmune disease. The condition may run in families, with some inherited genes playing a role. Stress is thought to be a trigger for Graves' symptoms. The condition is also more common among smokers. Diagnosis A doctor will make a diagnosis of Graves' disease based on the person's symptoms, their medical history and a physical examination. Tests will be arranged to confirm the diagnosis of Graves' disease, and to rule out other possible causes or thyroid conditions. A GP will often make a referral to a thyroid specialist, called an endocrinologist, for further assessment and tests. Tests to be arranged may include: Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) blood test Thyroxine (FT4) blood test TSH receptor antibody blood test Thyroid scan. Treatment The goal of treatment for Graves' disease will be to reduce thyroid hormone levels.

In some cases, medication can lead to a complete cure for Graves' disease. Depending on individual circumstances and how severe the symptoms are, treatments may include: Antithyroid drugs that reduce thyroid hormone production. Carbimazole is usually the first drug prescribed, but an alternative called propylthiouracil may be used if there are side-effects related to carbimazole, or during pregnancy . Radioactive iodine destroys the thyroid gland meaning that thyroid medication is then needed for life. An operation to remove part of the thyroid may be an option for younger people who develop goitres. Thyroid medication will need to be taken for life after the procedure. Medical advice should be sought if symptoms worsen or if you have concerns. Sometimes treatment can make thyroid levels go too low ( hypothyroidism ), causing tingling, unplanned weight gain, dry skin, face puffiness and fatigue . Medication doses may need to be adjusted if this happens. One rare side-effect of antithyroid drugs is a lowering of the infection-fighting white blood cells leading to sore throat, mouth ulcers and a fever. Liver damage is a rare side-effect of propylthiouracil medication causing yellowing of the skin or eyes.

If Graves' disease symptoms mean the eyelids won't close completely over your eyes, eye patches may help at night. Artificial tears may be recommended to keep the eyes moist. Regular blood tests will be needed to monitor thyroid levels to check the treatment is working well. Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, as special precautions and treatment changes may be needed. WebMD Medical Reference Graves' Disease: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments - Medical News Today Graves' Disease: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments Written by Peter Lam 3.5 43 Graves' disease is an autoimmune disease in which the overactivity of the thyroid gland causes the overproduction of thyroid hormones (hyperthyroidism). A number of conditions can cause hyperthyroidism , but Graves' disease is the most common.1 The disease can affect adolescents and is most often diagnosed among women under 40 years old, but can also be found in men. If left untreated, Graves' disease can have a major negative impact on a person's mental and physical state. Other examples of autoimmune diseases are lupus , type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis .

Contents of this article: You will also see introductions at the end of some sections to any recent developments that have been covered by MNT's news stories. Also look out for links to information about related conditions. Fast facts on Graves' disease Here are some key points on Graves' disease. More detail and supporting information is in the main article. Graves' disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. The disease is also the most common type autoimmune disease in the US.2 It is more common in women under the age of 40, but can also be found in men. Graves' disease affects an estimated 2-3% of the world's population.3 The disease can be passed down through families, but its inheritance patterns remain unclear.4 The disease is named after Sir Robert Graves, an Irish Doctor, who first described the condition in 1835.5 What is Graves' disease Graves' disease was originally known as "exophthalmic goiter " but is now named after Sir Robert Graves, who first described the condition in 1835. The disease affects the thyroid gland, which is the butterfly-shaped organ located at the base of the neck just below the Adam's apple.

It is a critical component of the endocrine system, and regulates a person's metabolism by releasing hormones into the bloodstream. Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder, and the most common one of its kind in the US. An autoimmune disorder is the body's immune system mistakenly identifying healthy cells as foreign invaders and attacking them. As a result of this, the thyroid gland overproduces hormones, which go on to affect various aspects of the body. Causes of Graves' disease Unfortunately, scientists are still yet to pinpoint an exact cause of Graves' disease. We know the body's immune system is somehow tricked by the antibody associated with Graves' disease to attack the thyroid gland, causing hyperthyroidism. There is research to suggest Graves' disease may be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. For example, you are much more likely to develop the disease if you smoke. The thyroid functions are regulated by the pituitary gland, which is located below the brain and behind the sinus cavities.

The onset of Graves' disease produces a similar antibody - the thyrotropin receptor antibody (TRAb) - which acts very much like the pituitary gland.6 Somehow, the TRAb tricks the body, allowing it to override the normal process of the thyroid and therefore causing hyperthyroidism. A family history of Graves' disease is also likely to increase the chance of developing the condition although the inheritance pattern of the condition is unknown. Symptoms of Graves' disease The overproduction of thyroid hormones can have a variety of effects on the body due to the important role these hormones play to regulate a person's metabolism. The onset of Graves' disease can have a number of effects on the body. The influx of thyroid hormones can increase these processes, symptoms of this include: Increased sweating An irregular or rapid heartbeat Enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter). One distinct feature of Graves' disease, compared with other causes of hyperthyroidism, is its effects on the eyes. Graves' disease is the only type of hyperthyroidism that is associated with the swelling and inflammation of the eye tissue.

Graves' eye disease is also known as ophthalmopathy ( exophthalmos ) and is a common symptom of patients with Graves's disease with 30% of patients suffering from the condition.7 In this instance, the eyes become painful, red and watery. Patients may also experience extreme sensitivity to sunlight and blurred vision. On the next page we look at the tests, diagnosis and treatments for Graves' disease. Thyroid Disorder - Hyperthyroidism and Graves Disease - Montefiore Einstein Center for Cancer Care Hyperthyroidism and Graves Disease Hyperthyroidism and Graves Disease Diagnosis Hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid gland, is typically diagnosed after the development of symptoms that can include weight loss, increased heart rate or palpitations, nervousness, difficulty sleeping, fatigue, intolerance to heat, warm skin, sweating or bulging of the eyes with Graves disease. Blood tests will show an elevated level of thyroid hormone (T3, T4) with a decreased level of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which is produced by the pituitary gland.

The causes of hyperthyroidism include thyroiditis or inflammation of the thyroid gland, Graves disease, an overactive thyroid nodule, an overactive enlarged thyroid gland or goiter, and several other less common causes. Thyroiditis is an inflammation of the thyroid gland thought to be due to a viral illness and is typically self-limited over weeks to months. An overactive thyroid nodule is uncommon and can be diagnosed with a radioactive thyroid scan and ultrasound. Graves disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism, and it requires definitive treatment. Graves Disease Graves disease is an autoimmune disorder of the thyroid gland in which patients develop antibodies to a receptor on the thyroid gland that then cause the gland to continuously overproduce thyroid hormone. Over time the thyroid gland enlarges and patients will develop a thyroid goiter. Patients with Graves disease can also develop swelling in the tissue behind the eyes which can cause bulging of the eyes and can lead to vision changes. Treatment The symptoms of hyperthyroidism are readily treated by a number of different treatments depending on the cause of hyperthyroidism.

Medications such as propothiourical (PTU) or methimazole are oral medications that decrease the amount of thyroid hormone produced by the thyroid gland and decrease the effects of increased thyroid hormone on the body. Other medications, such as propranolol or beta-blockers, can improve symptoms by blocking the effect of thyroid hormone on the cardiovascular system. Medications can be used as the primary treatment of thyroiditis until the inflammation resolves; however, when used for Graves disease or an overactive thyroid nodule or goiter, medications will decrease symptoms but will not treat the underlying disease. The treatment of an overactive thyroid nodule is surgical removal. Your physician will begin medications to block the production of thyroid hormone to help relieve the symptoms of hyperthyroidism prior to surgery. Overactive or "hot" thyroid nodules are almost always benign in nature, and the remainder of the normal thyroid gland can be left in place to provide thyroid hormone production following surgery. Most patients will not need thyroid hormone replacement following removal of half of the thyroid gland. The definitive treatment of Graves disease is either radioactive iodine therapy or surgical removal of the thyroid gland.

Radioactive iodine therapy is the most common form of treatment for Graves disease and is administered as an oral form of radioactive iodine, which is absorbed by the thyroid gland. After its absorption the radioactivity destroys the thyroid gland. Because iodine is almost solely absorbed by the thyroid gland, there is relatively little radiation exposure outside of the thyroid gland. No previous studies have suggested that there is a significant increase in thyroid cancer following this treatment. After radioactive iodine treatment most patients will develop hypothyroid. These patients will require thyroid hormone replacement in the form of a thyroid hormone pill. Surgical removal of the thyroid gland is another definitive treatment for Graves disease or for thyroid goiter. Patients who cannot tolerate radioactive iodine or choose surgery as an alternative treatment can be cured almost immediately with removal of the entire thyroid gland. Most patients remain in the hospital for 24 hours following surgery and can return to normal activities a few days after surgery. There is a small amount of risk with thyroidectomy including bleeding, injury to nerves that can lead to hoarseness and damage to the parathyroid glands, which control the calcium level in the blood. Following removal of the entire thyroid gland, all patients will need thyroid hormone replacement in the form of oral thyroid hormone.

Graves' Disease: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Graves' Disease: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment By Alina Bradford, Live Science Contributor | December 12, 2014 10:47pm ET MORE Credit: Alexander Raths | shutterstock Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder where misplaced attacks from the immune system cause the thyroid gland to become overactive. The result, known as hyperthyroidism, causes the thyroid to produce an excessive amount of the thyroid hormone, thyroxine. Too much thyroxine can affect every area of the body, including metabolism, brain development, heart and nervous system functions, body temperature, muscle strength, menstrual cycles, weight and cholesterol levels. Graves' disease is very common and affects about 1 in 200 people and is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism in the United States, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Graves' disease it is most often seen in women ages 20 to 40. Symptoms Since hyperthyroidism can manifest itself in the form of goiter, in addition to other symptoms caused by metabolic disruptions, physical examination may find swelling around the neck.

Patients could also have an increased heart rate, according to the National Library of Medicine (NLM). Some patients could also experience Graves' opthalmopathy, where their eyelids retract and eyes budge from their sockets. This condition affects between 25 and 50 percent of people with Graves disease, according to NIH . Other symptoms include, anxiety, erectile problems, weight loss, heat sensitivity, changes in menstrual cycles, tremors and frequent bowel movements. Those with urinary problems may need to be checked for Graves', too. "From perspective of an urologist, thyroid disease is an important cause of urological symptoms in men and women. Graves disease in particular can present early on with urinary symptoms such as frequent urination and slow urine stream,"Dr. Alex Shteynshlyuger, director of urology at New York Urology Specialists, told Live Science. These symptoms usually clear up once Graves' has been treated. Causes The reasons behind the autoimmune attacks are still unclear. Various family and twin studies, including a 2010 epidemiological study of patients with Graves' disease, have suggested that the disease has a hereditary component.

Moreover, the likelihood of getting the disease is correlated to the number of affected family members. Shared lifestyle among family members seems to explain only a small proportion of familial Graves' disease, according to the study. Despite that, the same study also found a higher incidence of the disease occurring in both spouses, which suggests that there's a small likelihood that the disease is somewhat influenced by environmental conditions. In addition, the disease is also associated with 19 other autoimmune and related conditions, including Addison's disease, type 1 diabetes mellitus, Hashimoto/hypothyroidism, and lupus erythematosus. Pregnancy could also trigger Graves' disease. According to the National Women's Health Information Center , as many as 30 percent of young women who get Graves' disease have been pregnant in the 12 months prior to the onset of symptoms. Why? Pregnancy causes many different hormonal changes that stress the thyroid gland, including higher amounts of hormones that both stimulate and block the thyroid. Diagnosis and tests First, a doctor will give a patient a physical exam to look for throat swelling, bulging eyes and other symptoms of Graves'.

If Graves' disease is suspected and more tests are merited, the physician could order blood tests and thyroid scans to clarify the diagnosis. Blood tests measure the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroxine. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland in the brain and normally regulates the level of thyroxine production. In Graves' disease, the autoimmune response creates thyroid-stimulating antibodies, which mimic the function of TSH. These are called TSI. TSI over stimulates the thyroid glands, making it produce more thyroxine than normal. Therefore, patients often have an elevated level of thyroxine even when TSH levels remain normal. People with Graves' disease typically have below average levels of TSH and higher levels of thyroid hormones, according to the Mayo Clinic. Also, patients who have hyperthyroidism caused by other conditions don't have these antibodies. During a thyroid scan, the patient takes a radioactive iodine tracer. The scan detects the location and intensity of the rays given off by the radioactive material within the gland, according to the NLM . The distribution pattern helps to narrow down the type of thyroid disease, since the entire thyroid gland is involved in Graves' disease.

Other causes of hyperthyroidism such as nodules, small lumps in the gland, show a different pattern of iodine distribution. Treatment and medication There are three treatment options: radioiodine therapy, antithyroid drugs and thyroid surgery. Radioiodine therapy is the most common treatment for Graves' disease in the United States, according to the National Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Information Service . In radioiodine therapy, the patient ingests radioactive iodine-131. The thyroid gland collects iodine to make thyroid hormones, so, the radioactive iodine will end up in the thyroid gland. Once there, it will slowly destroy thyroid cells, allowing less thyroid hormone to be made. Often, the enough radioactive iodine is administered to shut down the thyroid gland completely. Normally, patients who take radioactive therapy will develop hypothyroidism (the exact opposite of hyperthyroidism) and must take synthetic thyroid hormone supplements, according to the National Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Information Service. Radioiodine treatment is not offered to pregnant or breastfeeding women. The radioactive iodine can be harmful to the fetus' thyroid. Even after birth, it can pass from mother to child through breast milk.

Two antithyroid medications are available by prescription in the United States: Methimazole (brand name Tapazole) and Propylthiouracil (also known as PTU). Using the medications longer than one year often gives patients better long-term results, according to the Mayo Clinic. In certain cases, patients may opt for a thyroidectomy, or a complete removal of the thyroid gland. As with radioiodine therapy, patients need to take synthetic hormones after the surgery to compensate for the loss of thyroid function. Though risks are rare, surgery could potentially damage the vocal cords and parathyroid glands, which are the tiny glands located near the thyroid gland that produce a hormone that controls calcium levels in the blood, according to the Mayo Clinic . Prevention Although Graves' disease is not preventable, early detection can help patients seek treatment sooner. The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists suggests regular "neck checks" to check for any bulges or protrusions around the neck when swallowing. Additional resources Graves' disease fact sheet | womenshealth.gov Graves' disease fact sheet What is Graves' disease? Graves' disease is an autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid. The thyroid is a small gland in the front of the neck.

It makes hormones called T3 and T4 that regulate how the body uses energy. Thyroid hormone levels are controlled by the pituitary, which is a pea-sized gland in the brain. It makes thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), which triggers the thyroid to make thyroid hormone. With Graves' disease, the immune system makes antibodies that act like TSH, causing the thyroid to make more thyroid hormone than your body needs. This is called an overactive thyroid or hyperthyroidism. An overactive thyroid causes every function of the body to speed up, such as heart rate and the rate your body turns food into energy. Graves' disease is one cause of overactive thyroid. It is closely related to Hashimoto's disease, another autoimmune disease affecting the thyroid. Most people with Graves' disease have symptoms of an overactive thyroid, such as: Goiter (enlarged thyroid) Thinning of skin or fine, brittle hair Frequent bowel movements Lighter menstrual flow and less frequent periods Problems getting pregnant Unlike other causes of an overactive thyroid, Graves' disease also can cause: Eye changes. For some people with Graves' disease, the tissue behind the eyes becomes inflamed and swells.

This can cause bulging or discomfort in one or both eyes. Sometimes it affects vision. Eye symptoms can occur before, at the same time, or after other symptoms of Graves' disease begin. It may rarely occur in people with normal thyroid function. We do not know why these eye problems occur. They are more common in people who smoke, and smoking makes eye symptoms worse. Eye problems often get better without treatment. Reddening and thickening of the skin, often on the shins and tops of the feet. This rare skin problem is not serious and is usually painless. Most people with this skin problem also have eye problems from Graves' disease. Symptoms of Graves' disease can occur slowly or very suddenly and are sometimes confused with other health problems. Some people with Graves' disease do not have any symptoms. Who gets Graves' disease? Both men and women can get Graves' disease. But it affects women 10 times more often than men. Graves' disease occurs in people of all ages, but most often starts in the 20s and 30s. People who get Graves' disease often have family members who have thyroid or other autoimmune diseases.

People who get Graves' disease sometimes have other autoimmune diseases, such as: Vitiligo (vit-ihl-EYE-goh) — a disease that destroys the cells that give your skin its color Rheumatoid arthritis — a disease that affects the lining of the joints throughout the body Addison's disease — a disease that affects the adrenal glands, which make hormones that help your body respond to stress and regulate your blood pressure and water and salt balance Type 1 diabetes — a disease that causes blood sugar levels to be too high Pernicious (pur-NISH-uhss) anemia — a disease that keeps your body from absorbing vitamin B12 and making enough healthy red blood cells Lupus — a disease that can damage many parts of the body, such as the joints, skin, blood vessels, and other organs What causes Graves' disease? Many factors are thought to play a role in getting Graves' disease. These might include: Genes. Some people are prone to Graves' disease because of their genes. Researchers are working to find the gene or genes involved. Gender. Sex hormones might play a role, and might explain why Graves' disease affects more women than men. Stress.

Severe emotional stress or trauma might trigger the onset of Graves' disease in people who are prone to getting it. Pregnancy. Pregnancy affects the thyroid. As many as 30 percent of young women who get Graves' disease have been pregnant in the 12 months prior to the onset of symptoms. This suggests that pregnancy might trigger Graves' disease in some women. Infection. Infection might play a role in the onset of Graves' disease, but no studies have shown infection to directly cause Graves' disease. How do I find out if I have Graves' disease? Most people with Graves' disease have symptoms that are bothersome. If you have symptoms of Graves' disease, your doctor will do an exam and order one or more tests. Tests used to help find out if you have Graves' disease include: Thyroid function tests. A blood sample is sent to a lab to see if your body has the right amount of thyroid hormone (T4) and TSH. A high level of thyroid hormone in the blood plus a low level of TSH is a sign of overactive thyroid. Sometimes, routine screening of thyroid function reveals mild overactive thyroid in a person without symptoms.

In such cases, doctors might suggest treatment or watchful waiting to see if levels return to normal. Radioactive iodine uptake (RAIU). An RAIU tells how much iodine the thyroid takes up. The thyroid takes up iodine and uses it to make thyroid hormone. A high uptake suggests Graves' disease. This test can be helpful in ruling out other possible causes of overactive thyroid. Antibody tests. A blood sample is sent to a lab to look for antibodies that suggest Graves' disease. Graves'disease can be hard to diagnose during pregnancy because it has many of the same symptoms as normal pregnancy , like fatigue and heat intolerance. Also, some lab tests can be harder to interpret. Plus, doctors cannot use RAIU during pregnancy to rule out other causes. What could happen if Graves' disease is not treated? Without treatment, Graves' disease can lead to heart problems, weak and brittle bones, and even death. “Thyroid storm” is a very rare, life-threatening condition that can occur if overactive thyroid is not treated. An acute stress, such as trauma, surgery, or infection, usually triggers it to occur. In pregnant women, untreated disease can threaten the mother and unborn baby's health.

Does pregnancy affect the thyroid? Normal hormone changes during pregnancy cause thyroid hormone levels to increase. The thyroid also may enlarge slightly in healthy women during pregnancy, but not enough to be felt. These changes do not affect the pregnancy or unborn baby. Yet, untreated thyroid problems can threaten pregnancy and the growing baby. Symptoms of normal pregnancy, like fatigue and feeling hot, can make it easy to overlook thyroid problems in pregnancy. So if you have symptoms of overactive thyroid or notice a goiter, make sure to tell your doctor. Stillbirth Talk to your doctor about how to prepare for pregnancy or about birth control if you do not want to become pregnant. If you take antithyroid drugs and want to get pregnant, ask your doctor about treatment with radioactive iodine (RAI). Women treated with RAI at least 6 months before pregnancy don't need antithyroid drugs and can avoid exposing the unborn baby. If you have had RAI to treat Graves' disease, you should wait at least 6 months before getting pregnant. Your doctor also will need to watch your baby for thyroid-related problems that can occur later in the pregnancy. How is Graves' disease managed during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, you will need to see both your OB/GYN and an endocrinologist (en-doh-krih-NOL-uh-jist), a doctor who treats people with hormone problems. If you have had radioactive iodine (RAI) or surgery to treat Graves' disease in the past and become pregnant, tell your doctor. Your baby will need to be watched for thyroid-related problems that can occur later in the pregnancy. It is best to plan pregnancy so that Graves' disease is treated prior to conception. Pregnancy may cause changes in hormones that affect the thyroid, and thyroid problems can affect a growing baby. For some women with Graves' disease, symptoms worsen in the first trimester, and then improve for the rest of the pregnancy. Symptoms often worsen again after delivery. For these reasons, the treatment needs of pregnant women with Graves' disease often change, and an experienced doctor is needed to manage your treatment during and after pregnancy. Your doctor will check your thyroid hormone levels regularly. If antithyroid medicine is needed, PTU is usually prescribed in the first trimester, and MMI for the rest of the pregnancy. Thyroid surgery is rarely an option for pregnant women. And pregnant women cannot take RAI.

Beta-blockers are sometimes prescribed for short-term use during the first few weeks of pregnancy to relieve symptoms. Can I breastfeed if I am taking antithyroid medicine for Graves' disease? Many women who take antithyroid medicine choose to breastfeed. Only low amounts of these drugs cross into breast milk. Your doctor can help you weigh the benefits of breastfeeding with the possible risk of these drugs. This will help you decide what is best for you and your baby. Graves Disease , Causes , Symptoms info You must add 1 as a minimum quantity to buy this product. Availability: More info What is Graves' disease? Graves' virus is an autoimmune virus that affects the thyroid. The thyroid is a diminutive gland in the facade of the neckline. It makes hormones that are known as T3 and T4 that control how the body uses energy. Thyroid hormone levels are prohibited by the pituitary, which is a pea-sized gland in the skull. It constructs thyroid fascinating hormone (TSH), which activate the thyroid to create hormone, known as thyroid. With Graves' infection, the sheltered system makes antibodies that take action like TSH, causing the thyroid to create supplementary thyroid hormone than your body necessities.

This is called an overactive thyroid or hyperthyroidism. An overactive thyroid causes each reason of the body to get faster, such as heart rate and the rate your body turns fare into authority. Graves' infection is one cause of overactive thyroid. It is strongly related to Hashimoto's virus, another autoimmune contagion upsetting the thyroid. What are the signs & symptoms of Graves' disease? Many patients with Graves' infection have indications of an overactive thyroid, such as: Lower menstrual run and with a reduction of frequent periods Problems in receiving pregnancy Tapering of skin or all right, fragile hair Hand vibration etc How to diagnose Graves' disease? An unusual expression of Graves' infection which is known as Graves' dermopathy, is the reddening and thickening of the skin, the greater part frequently on your shins or the circlet of your feet. When to see a doctor? A quantity of health check circumstances can reason the signs and symptoms connected with Graves' infection. It is essential to observe your medical doctor if you considerate any probable Graves-related harms to get at the appointed time and precise judgment. Seek urgent circumstances care if you're experience heart linked signs and indications, such as a immediate or irregular heartbeat.

What Causes Graves ‘disease? Hormones concealed by the thyroid gland administer metabolism or the momentum at which the human body converts supplies into strength. The metabolism is unwaveringly associated to the number of hormones that overtake in the blood stream. In case, if, for some circumstances, the thyroid gland emits a excess of these hormones, the body's metabolism goes into high gear, produce the hammering heart, sweat, tremulous, and burden loss characteristically qualified by hyperthyroid society. On the whole, the thyroid gets its construction information through an additional chemical recognized as thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), on the unfastened by the pituitary gland in the intelligence. But in Graves' disease, a malfunction in the body's immune system releases irregular antibodies that mimic TSH. Spurred by these counterfeit indicators to put up, the thyroid's hormone factories work eventually and go beyond their normal allocation. Accurately why the immune system commences to manufacture these strange antibodies is undecided. Genetics and other individuality seem to play a role in formative defenselessness.

Studies show, for illustration, that if one matching twin contract Graves' sickness, there is a 20% probability that the supplementary twin will search out it, too. Also, women are additional likely than men to augment the sickness. And smokers who build up grave disease are more two-faced on your front to eye difficulties than nonsmokers with the sickness. No on its own gene causes Graves’s sickness. It is thoughtfulness to be trigger by both genetics and biological factors, such as constant worry. Is there is any Prevention of Graves' disease? There is no way to avoid Graves' infection. options for Graves' disease: Handling focuses on two goals: speedily humanizing the hyperthyroid symptoms, and sluggish the thyroid's manufacture of thyroid hormone. Graves' infection is most often treating with the anti-thyroid preparation methimazole. Methimazole blocks the understanding of thyroid hormones. A supplementary anti-thyroid drug described propylthiouracil also survives. However, it be supposed to only be used in patients who cannot tolerate methimazole and in women just previous to and throughout their innovative trimester of pregnancy.

Once thyroid hormone levels have reached regular, patient and his or her doctor can approach to a conclusion whether to prolong on daily basis anti-thyroid tablets or to make a decision radioactive iodine behavior. Symptoms of palpitations, superior to before heart rate, shaking and jumpiness are treated with a beta-blocker medicine such as propanolol. To transport to a standstill the thyroid from create too much hormone, there are three talented thyroid medications, radioactive iodine, and surgical method. Graves' Disease Symptoms, Treatment, Causes - What are the symptoms of Graves' disease? - MedicineNet What are the symptoms of Graves' disease? Quick GuideHyperthyroidism Symptoms and Treatment What is Graves' disease? Graves' disease is an autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid. The thyroid is a small gland in the front of the neck. It makes hormones called T3 and T4 that regulate how the body uses energy. Thyroid hormone levels are controlled by the pituitary, which is a pea-sized gland in the brain. It makes thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), which triggers the thyroid to make thyroid hormone.

With Graves' disease, the immune system makes antibodies that act like TSH, causing the thyroid to make more thyroid hormone than your body needs. This is called an overactive thyroid or hyperthyroidism . An overactive thyroid causes every function of the body to speed up, such as heart rate and the rate your body turns food into energy. Graves' disease is one cause of overactive thyroid. It is closely related to Hashimoto's disease, another autoimmune disease affecting the thyroid. What are the symptoms of Graves' disease? Problems getting pregnant Unlike other causes of an overactive thyroid, Graves' disease also can cause: Eye changes. For some people with Graves' disease, the tissue behind the eyes becomes inflamed and swells. This can cause bulging or discomfort in one or both eyes. Sometimes it affects vision. Eye symptoms can occur before, at the same time, or after other symptoms of Graves' disease begin. It may rarely occur in people with normal thyroid function. We do not know why these eye problems occur. They are more common in people who smoke, andsmoking makes eye symptoms worse. Eye problems often get better without treatment.

Reddening and thickening of the skin, often on the shins and tops of the feet. This rare skin problem is not serious and is usually painless. Most people with this skin problem also have eye problems from Graves' disease. Symptoms of Graves' disease can occur slowly or very suddenly and are sometimes confused with other health problems. Some people with Graves' disease do not have any symptoms. Picture of the thyroid gland

Question: Graves Disease is caused by a malfunction of which gland in the human body?
Answer: Thyroid