Graves’ disease is an autoimmune condition that causes the thyroid to overproduce hormones, leading to symptoms like anxiety, weight loss, tremors, and bulging eyes. At Grant Thyroid Surgery, Dr. David Grant offers expert evaluation and compassionate care, drawing on his specialized training in thyroid surgery to guide your treatment.
What is Graves' Disease?
Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack the thyroid gland, leading to an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). This overstimulation causes the gland to produce excessive thyroid hormones, which can disrupt many functions and lead to symptoms like rapid heartbeat, anxiety, weight loss, heat sensitivity, and eye changes such as bulging or irritation. Graves’ disease is one of the most common causes of hyperthyroidism and can affect people of all ages.
Signs & Symptoms of Graves' Disease:
- Unexplained weight loss despite normal or increased appetite
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Anxiety, irritability, or nervousness
- Difficulty sleeping or restlessness
- Tremors in the hands or fingers
- Frequent bowel movements or diarrhea
- Heat intolerance and excessive sweating
- Enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)
- Bulging eyes or eye irritation
- Menstrual irregularities or reduced menstrual flow
- Fatigue or muscle weakness
- Thinning skin or brittle hair
If Left Untreated:
Graves’ disease can lead to serious complications that affect your heart, bones, eyes, and overall health. Persistent hyperthyroidism may cause irregular heart rhythms, osteoporosis, and heart failure. In some cases, untreated Graves’ disease can result in a thyroid storm—a rare but life-threatening condition where dangerously high thyroid hormone levels cause fever, rapid heartbeat, and confusion. Early diagnosis and intervention are essential to avoid long-term damage and maintain a healthy life.
Possible Causes of Graves' Disease
Graves’ disease develops when the immune system creates antibodies that stimulate the thyroid gland to produce excessive hormones. While the exact trigger remains unclear, several factors are believed to increase the risk of developing this autoimmune condition, including:
- Genetic predisposition or family history of thyroid disease
- History of other autoimmune disorders
- High levels of physical or emotional stress
- Hormonal changes, especially in women
- Smoking, which increases the risk of eye complications
- Certain infections or environmental exposures
How is Graves' Disease Diagnosed?
To diagnose Graves’ disease, your doctor will begin with a thorough physical exam and review of your symptoms. You’ll likely undergo blood tests to measure thyroid hormone levels (T3 and T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Antibody tests can confirm if your immune system is producing the specific antibodies seen in Graves’ disease. In some cases, imaging, such as a radioactive iodine uptake scan, may be used to assess how your thyroid is functioning.
Your Personalized Graves' Disease Treatment
At Grant Thyroid Surgery, your treatment plan is thoughtfully curated by Dr. Grant to align with your specific diagnosis, symptoms, and lifestyle. After evaluating your test results and medical history, Dr. Grant will walk you through the most appropriate options to manage your thyroid function and relieve your symptoms. Whether you require medical therapy, surgical intervention, or ongoing monitoring, you’ll receive care tailored to your unique needs.
Schedule Your Consultation
With Dr. Grant
Dr. David Grant is a board-certified head and neck surgeon with advanced fellowship training in thyroid and parathyroid surgery. With deep expertise in managing complex thyroid conditions like Graves’ disease, he offers compassionate, individualized care in a refined and supportive setting. If you’re experiencing symptoms of Graves’ disease, schedule a consultation with Dr. Grant today and take the first step toward restoring your health and well-being.
