An autoimmune disease that causes a malfunction in the thyroid gland is known as Graves’ disease. Signs of this disease are very similar to other types of hyperthyroidism. Timely clinical pathology tests and treatment can reduce the symptoms with the help of medication, radioactive iodine therapy, or even surgery.
A healthy immune system is important for fighting off harmful foreign bodies and substances. This defence against germs and diseases is possible with the help of white blood cells or WBCs circulating throughout the body. Its main purpose is to keep pathogens at bay, however, if the WBC count is low, then the chances of contracting infections increase significantly. Similarly, if the immune system of an individual is compromised due to a particular disease or deficiency, then an individual can be vulnerable to a lot of viruses and bacteria. Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disease that occurs because of the overproduction of certain thyroid hormones leading to the dysfunctional nervous system, body temperature, brain activity, and the like. The most accurate method to detect this disease is with the help of clinical pathology tests.
Symptoms
As Graves’ disease has symptoms similar to hyperthyroidism, early detection of this disease can be delayed. The most common sign observed is a fine tremor in the hands of the patient. Along with this, episodes of anxiety and irritability, unexplained weight loss, lack of appetite, and frequent bowel movements. In females, a change in the menstrual cycles can also be observed while in males, erectile dysfunction is a common occurrence. Besides this, patients suffering from Graves’ disease complain of fatigue, rapid heartbeat, and sleep disturbance in their daily lives. There have been cases with the thyroid gland or goitre gets enlarged, thick red skin develops on the shins or feet, and eyes tend to bulge out along with blurry or complete loss of vision.
Causes
The progression of this disease leads to decreased or negligible immunity, however, the cause behind this condition is still not known. Patients suffering from Graves’ disease have an immune system that attacks healthy tissues and cells as it confuses them to be pathogens. Hereditary plays a major role in this medical condition as it can be passed on from one generation to the next. Besides this, stress is a trigger that can be responsible for causing this autoimmune disease in people below the age of forty. The risk of developing Graves’ disease is known to increase significantly if a patient is already suffering from another autoimmune disorder such as Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, etc. As women have a higher chance of developing Graves’ disease in their immune system than men, they are particularly vulnerable during pregnancy. Unhealthy lifestyle habits such as smoking is another risk factor that can severely affect the vision of the patient.
Treatment
A series of pathology tests need to be conducted for diagnosing Graves’ disease. These include radioactive iodine uptake, TSH, TSI, and anti-TPO tests. Along with this, image testing is required to scan the thyroid gland for hyperthyroidism. Based on the severity of the condition, the treatment plan is suggested to the patient. Anti-thyroid drugs might be prescribed along with beta-blockers for reducing the symptoms of this disease. Radioactive iodine therapy is recommended as well.
Reducing stress levels and improving lifestyle habits are prerequisites that patients must take seriously so that no symptoms are triggered.