What is Graves' Disease?

It is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, causing excessive hormone production. What is Graves' Disease? The question is usually asked to understand why this condition causes excessive secretion of thyroid hormones. This condition occurs as a result of the thyroid gland working excessively. It affects many systems in the body by accelerating metabolism. It manifests itself with various symptoms.

What are the symptoms of Graves' disease?

It is a disease that occurs as a result of excessive thyroid gland activity and shows itself with various symptoms. These symptoms occur because the disease accelerates the metabolism in the body. Symptoms vary from person to person. The severity may vary.

The most common symptom is a rapid and irregular heartbeat. Patients usually notice this along with chest discomfort. Weight loss is also a common symptom and occurs despite an increase in appetite.

In addition, excessive sweating and heat intolerance are observed. Other physical symptoms include shaking in the hands and fingers, muscle weakness and constant fatigue.

It can also have psychological effects. Irritability, restlessness and anxiety are the most common effects. Patients may feel more stressed and tense. Sleep disorders and difficulty concentrating are also common.

It can also affect the eyes. It is known as Graves' ophthalmopathy. Swelling, redness and protrusion occur in the eyes. Patients usually see double. They may experience sensitivity to light. Pain and discomfort are also experienced.

Some patients experience thickening and discoloration of the skin. Skin hardening and swelling may occur, especially in the lower legs.

Graves' disease When symptoms are seen, a doctor should be consulted without delay. Early diagnosis is effective in controlling the disease. Appropriate treatment supports this process.

What is Graves' Disease and What Causes It?

Graves' disease, is an autoimmune disease. This attack causes the thyroid gland to produce excessive amounts of hormones. It causes a condition called hyperthyroidism, which speeds up the body's metabolism. It affects many organs and systems due to the excess of thyroid hormones. It manifests itself with various symptoms.

The exact cause is not known. However, it is thought that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may trigger it. The risk is higher in individuals with a family history of immune system diseases. It is more common in women than men. It occurs between the ages of 20-40.

The immune system normally works to protect the body. However, the immune system targets the thyroid gland and damages it. During this process, an antibody called TSI is produced. This antibody forces the thyroid gland to work continuously. As a result, the thyroid gland secretes excessive amounts of thyroid hormone.

There are many triggering factors. Stress negatively affects the immune system. This can also cause the disease to start. Smoking increases the risk of Graves' ophthalmopathy. In addition, viral infections can be effective in the onset of the disease. Hormonal changes can also contribute to this process.

Early diagnosis and treatment are of great importance in taking it under control. When symptoms are noticed, a specialist should be consulted. This prevents complications.

How Is Graves' Disease Treated?

Graves' disease Treatment is planned to control the excessive production of hormones by the thyroid gland. Another goal of treatment is to relieve the symptoms of the disease. Treatment options vary depending on the patient's age, general health status, and severity of the disease. Drug therapy, radioactive iodine, and surgery are preferred.

The first step in treatment is usually drugs that reduce thyroid hormone production. Antithyroid drugs suppress the thyroid gland's hormone production. Thus, they control this problem. These drugs can be especially effective in young patients. In addition, this treatment is used in mild cases of the disease. Beta blockers are preferred to relieve symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, tremors and palpitations.

Radioactive iodine therapy is used to shrink the thyroid gland. It is an effective method. This treatment is administered in the form of a capsule or liquid taken orally. Radioactive iodine settles in the thyroid gland. Thus, it destroys the overactive cells. Thyroid hormone levels may decrease after treatment. This can cause hypothyroidism and hormone supplements may be required.

Surgical intervention is performed by removing the thyroid gland completely or partially. It is used when other treatments are inadequate. Surgical treatment can also be applied to patients with large nodules in the thyroid gland. Thyroid hormone supplements may be required after surgery.

If left untreated, it can cause serious complications. What is Graves' disease? While looking for an answer to the question, it should not be forgotten that regular follow-up and treatment process is of great importance.