Guide To The Most Common Autoimmune Diseases

Graves' Disease

Photo Credit: CenterForFacialAppearances

In Graves' disease, the patient's immune system produces antibodies that are programmed to command cells in the thyroid gland to produce too much thyroid hormone. Symptoms of this condition are related to several different organ systems, as the thyroid hormones regulate numerous glands around the body. They include goiter, palpitations, frequent bowel movements, fatigue, bulging eyes, and erectile dysfunction. Other symptoms are menstrual cycle changes, weight loss, heat sensitivity, tremors, irritability, and anxiety.

This condition is diagnosed through a physical examination, blood testing, radioactive iodine uptake test, ultrasound, CT scans, x-rays, and magnetic resonance imaging. Complications include Graves' dermopathy, which affects the skin, and Graves' ophthalmopathy, which affects the eyes. Treatments for this condition include anti-thyroid medications, beta-blockers, radioactive iodine therapy, corticosteroids, and a thyroidectomy.

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