Graves disease

Graves disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, driving it to make too much thyroid hormone and causing hyperthyroidism. It is the most common cause of an overactive thyroid and is more frequent in women and in people over 30, though it can occur at any age. A thyroid-stimulating antibody drives the overproduction; the trigger is probably genes combined with an outside factor such as a virus, and a family history, other autoimmune disorders or nicotine use raise the risk. Symptoms include weight loss despite a good appetite, fast or irregular heartbeat, nervousness, tremor, heat intolerance and an enlarged thyroid; eye disease with bulging eyes is common. Diagnosis combines examination with thyroid hormone and antibody blood tests. Treatment uses antithyroid medicines such as methimazole or propylthiouracil, radioiodine or surgery, with beta-blockers easing symptoms; antithyroid medicines are not a permanent cure.

Seek urgent care for fever in anyone with a weakened immune system, or for swelling of the face or throat. See a doctor for infections that keep recurring, unexplained weight loss or night sweats, or if you think you have been exposed to HIV. Call the local emergency number for any symptom that is sudden and severe. This page is a reference for healthcare professionals and does not replace an assessment.