Graves’ Disease

If your heart feels like it’s racing, you’re losing weight without trying, or you feel constantly on edge, it can be hard to tell what’s going on. Symptoms like these don’t always point to one clear cause, which can make it frustrating to figure out your next step. In some cases, they may be linked to Graves’ disease, an autoimmune condition that affects how your thyroid works and how your body uses energy.

If you’re noticing possible thyroid symptoms in San Antonio, understanding what Graves’ disease is, what causes it, and how it’s treated can help you know when it’s time to get checked.

Graves’ disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. In this condition, the thyroid gland releases more hormone than the body needs.

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your neck, which helps regulate many of your body’s functions, including:

• Metabolism
• Heart rate
• Body temperature
• Energy levels
• How quickly your body uses energy

In Graves’ disease, the immune system makes antibodies that signal the thyroid to stay active. These antibodies are called thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins (TSI). They cause the gland to release too much thyroid hormone. As a result, many systems in the body begin to speed up.

Graves’ disease can affect anyone, but it’s more common in women and often develops in early or middle adulthood. Certain factors can raise your risk, including:

• A family history of thyroid disease or autoimmune conditions
• Other autoimmune diseases, such as type 1 diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis
• Pregnancy
• Periods of significant stress
• Smoking

Because thyroid hormone affects nearly every part of the body, Graves’ disease can cause a wide range of symptoms. In many cases, people feel as though their bodies are running too fast. Common symptoms include:

• Rapid heartbeat
• Heart palpitations
• Unexplained weight loss
• Increased appetite
• Feeling overheated
• Sweating more than usual
• Shaky hands or tremors
• Anxiety, nervousness, or irritability
• Trouble sleeping
• Fatigue
• Muscle weakness
• More frequent bowel movements
• Menstrual cycle changes
• Enlargement of the thyroid gland, called a goiter

Thyroid eye disease, also called Graves’ ophthalmopathy, affects the tissues around the eyes. It can appear before, during, or after thyroid problems are diagnosed. Signs of eye involvement include:

• Bulging eyes
• Redness or irritation
• Dryness or a gritty feeling
• Sensitivity to light
• Pressure behind the eyes
• Double vision

Graves’ dermopathy is a less common skin change that usually affects the shins. The skin may become thickened, discolored, or slightly raised.

If Graves’ disease is suspected, your doctor will order blood tests to check thyroid function. Blood tests often show a clear pattern, including:

• TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) is usually suppressed, often below the normal range
• Free T4 and T3 are elevated, reflecting increased hormone activity
• TSH receptor antibodies may be present and help confirm a diagnosis of Graves’ disease

Other testing may include:

• A radioactive iodine uptake scan. This test measures how active your thyroid is. It can also help tell Graves’ disease apart from other causes of hyperthyroidism.
• Thyroid ultrasound to evaluate the gland and assess for nodules

The main goal of treating Graves’ disease is to bring hormone levels back into a healthy range and control symptoms.

Medications

Antithyroid medications, such as methimazole or propylthiouracil (PTU), reduce how much hormone the thyroid makes. These medications may be used as a first step or for a period of time to see if remission occurs.

Beta-blockers may also be used to control symptoms like a fast heart rate, shakiness, and anxiety while other treatments start to work.

Radioactive iodine therapy

This treatment uses a small amount of radioactive iodine that is absorbed directly by your thyroid gland. Once inside, it gradually reduces how much thyroid hormone your body makes. Many people develop an underactive thyroid as a result of treatment. This is expected and can be managed with a daily thyroid medication to keep your hormone levels stable.

Thyroid surgery

Surgery to remove the thyroid may be recommended when:

• More rapid control is needed
• The thyroid is very enlarged
• There is concern for cancer
• Medications are not tolerated

After surgery, hormone replacement is required for life. As with any operation, there are risks, including effects on calcium regulation or voice changes.

Many people feel better once hormone levels are brought into a stable range. Regular follow-up visits and lab tests help track your thyroid levels and adjust treatment as needed.

If thyroid eye disease is present, care from an eye specialist may also be important.

A rare but serious complication of Graves’ disease is thyroid storm. It happens when thyroid hormone levels become dangerously high and push the body into overdrive. Most cases develop in people with untreated or poorly controlled hyperthyroidism. It’s often brought on by physical stress, such as:

• An infection
• Surgery
• Trauma
• Suddenly stopping thyroid medication

Symptoms are more intense than typical hyperthyroid symptoms and can worsen quickly. These may include:

• A very fast or irregular heartbeat
• High fever
• Confusion
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea or vomiting
• Marked weakness

Graves’ disease can affect many parts of your health, but it can usually be managed with the right treatment and ongoing care. Once thyroid hormone levels are brought into a healthier range, many people start to feel more like themselves again.

If you’ve had symptoms like a fast heart rate, unexplained weight loss, or ongoing anxiety, it may be time to have your thyroid checked.

If you’re concerned about Graves’ disease in San Antonio, schedule a consultation to get answers and start the right treatment.

1. Can Graves’ disease go away on its own?

Graves’ disease usually doesn’t go away without treatment. Some people may go into remission after medication, but symptoms can return. Ongoing follow-up helps keep hormone levels stable.

2. What is the best treatment for Graves’ disease?

The best treatment depends on your health and your goals. Options may include medication, radioactive iodine, or surgery. Your doctor can help you choose what fits your situation.

3. Can Graves’ disease be managed without surgery?

Yes, many people manage Graves’ disease without surgery. Medication or radioactive iodine is often used first. Surgery may be considered if other treatments are not a good fit.

4. How long does it take to feel better with Graves’ disease treatment?

Some symptoms may improve within a few weeks, especially with medication. Full control of hormone levels can take longer. Regular lab checks help guide treatment.

5. Is Graves’ disease a lifelong condition?

Graves’ disease can be long-term, but it’s often manageable. Some people need ongoing treatment, while others stay stable after initial care. Follow-up is important either way.