When thyroid gets overactive it produces excessive amount of thyroid hormones and this abnormal condition is known as ‘Graves’ disease”. It is also characterized by a metabolic imbalance known as hyperthyroidism. Dr. Robert Graves discovered this disease, hence it is known in his name.
Graves’ disease is eight times more common in women than in men. It may develop at any stage, but usually begins after the age of 20. It occurs when your immune system by mistake attacks your thyroid gland which eventually causes overproduction of hormone thyroxin.
Symptoms of Graves’ disease are identical to the symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Classic symptoms of this disease include enlargedthyroid gland, nervousness, weight loss, sweating, heat intolerance, diarrhea, and bulging of the eye balls (ophthalmopathy).
Common symptoms of Graves’ disease are anxiety, irritability, fatigue, difficulty in sleeping, brittle hair, and change in menstrual cycle. Weight loss – despite of normal appetite, tremor- shaking body, abnormal breast enlargement in men are also some signs of Graves’ disease.
If you notice one or two symptoms of Graves’ disease which are mentioned above, immediately consult your doctor. however, some symptoms are very common but to over rule the possibility of this disease you we must see the doctor.
If children have this disease, they usually get hyperactive and distractible. other symptoms in children with Graves’ disease are poor sleep and deterioration of their school performance. In older people symptoms are rapid heart rate, fast and short breath after getting exhausted, weight loss and lethargy.
Just like any other disease, prevention is the best cure for Graves’ disease. Quit smoking because this is one of the causes of Graves’ disease. Stress too causes this disease hence avoid stress. Eliminate bad habits, adhere rules of meditation, yoga and exercise.
Treatment of Graves’ disease depends upon many factors such as age, condition of the patient, size of thyroid glands etc. There are three methods of treatment- 1) Drug Therapy 2) Radioactive iodine therapy and 3) Surgery. Some diet restrictions are to be followed as per medical advice by the specialist. you also need to increase nutrition in foods hence eat more fiber and vitamins, such as fresh vegetables and fruits. Also drink plenty of water to prevent excessive sweating and moisture loss.
