Guide To The Most Common Autoimmune Diseases

Graves' Disease

Graves' disease is a disorder where the immune system produces antibodies programmed to command certain cells in the thyroid gland to produce too much thyroid hormone. Symptoms that develop in Graves' disease patients are related to several different organ systems since the thyroid hormones regulate numerous glands around the body. They include goiter, frequent bowel movements, palpitations, fatigue, bulging eyes, erectile dysfunction, menstrual cycle changes, weight loss, heat sensitivity, tremor, irritability, and anxiety. Diagnosis of Graves' disease is made with the use of a physical examination, blood testing, radioactive iodine uptake test, ultrasound, CT scans, x-rays, and MRIs. Complications of Graves' disease include Graves' dermopathy, which affects the skin, and Graves' ophthalmopathy, which affects the eyes. Graves' disease is treated with radioactive iodine therapy, anti-thyroid medications, beta-blockers, corticosteroids, and a thyroidectomy.

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