Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder and a common cause of hyperthyroidism. The immune system produces antibodies that stimulate the thyroid gland to make more hormone than the body needs.

Symptoms

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases lists weight loss despite increased appetite, heat intolerance, sweating, tremor, nervousness, muscle weakness, frequent bowel movements, sleep difficulty and a rapid or irregular heartbeat among possible signs. The thyroid may enlarge.

Graves’ eye disease can cause irritation, swelling, light sensitivity, bulging eyes, double vision or, rarely, threatened vision. A small number of people develop thickened reddish skin on the shins or feet.

Diagnosis

Blood tests measure thyroid hormones, thyroid-stimulating hormone and sometimes thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin. Radioactive iodine uptake, a thyroid scan or Doppler ultrasound may help distinguish Graves’ disease from other causes. Pregnancy changes which tests are appropriate.

Treatment

Options include antithyroid medicines, radioiodine therapy and thyroid surgery. Beta-blockers may temporarily control symptoms but do not stop thyroid hormone production. Choice depends on age, pregnancy, severity, eye disease, other health conditions and patient preference.

Radioiodine is not used during pregnancy or breastfeeding and may worsen eye disease. Fever or persistent sore throat while taking an antithyroid medicine needs urgent clinical advice. Severe agitation, high fever, vomiting or marked rapid heartbeat may signal thyroid storm and requires emergency care.