Thyroid hormones in your body affect several functions, so if there is a malfunction in the way this hormone is produced, you may experience numerous unpleasant signs and symptoms. Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder that leads to excessive thyroid hormone production (hyperthyroidism), leading to a wide range of problems.

If you suspect you have hyperthyroidism in Bellaire, TX, don't suffer alone. Instead, book an appointment with Thyroid Eyes at the Eye Wellness Center for diagnosis and treatment.

What Is Graves' disease?

Graves' disease is an immune disorder that damages the thyroid gland, which secretes the thyroid hormone. While there are many causes of hyperthyroidism, Graves' disease is the common cause, and if not treated, excessive thyroid hormone can damage your heart and kidneys. The disease gets its name from Robert Graves, an Irish doctor who discovered the condition in the 1800s. The immune system produces thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins (TSIs) that attach to the thyroid gland, leading to overproduction of the thyroid hormone.

Symptoms of Graves' Disease

Thyroid hormones affect many functions, including metabolism, brain development, and nervous system function, among other roles. If hyperthyroidism isn't treated, you may experience symptoms like:

• Sleeplessness
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Inflammation of the eyeball
• Unexplained weight loss
• Enlarged thyroid gland
• Mental fatigue
• Irregular heartbeats
• Heat sensitivity

Risk Factors for Graves' Disease

Numbers show that at least one American out of 200 is affected by Graves' disease, making it the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. The condition is more common in women than men and affects persons aged 30 and 50. The other risk factors for Graves' disease include:

• Family history
• Presence of another autoimmune condition
• Celiac disease
• Vitiligo
• Hormonal disorder

Diagnosing Graves' disease involves testing your blood, thyroid ultrasound, and a radioactive iodine uptake test. Treatment of Grave's disease may involve antithyroid drugs to lower the effects of Graves' disease symptoms. Radioactive iodine therapy involves swallowing small pills to keep hyperthyroidism at bay. Our ophthalmologists may recommend thyroid surgery if you aren't responding to other treatments.

Visit Our Bellaire Ophthalmologist for Professional Eye Care

Are you suffering from Graves' disease in Bellaire, TX? Please book an appointment with Thyroid Eyes - Eye Wellness Centers for effective diagnosis and treatment.