Graves' disease is named after Sir Robert Graves, who discovered the disease in the early 19th century. It is one of the most common of all thyroid problems and a leading reason behind hyperthyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland produces excessive hormones.
The symptoms of the disease can cause discomfort, but there are no long-term adverse health consequences related to the disease. Below are the symptoms of Graves’ disease.
Hyperthyroidism and Metabolism
Graves' disease patients exhibit a thyroid condition (hyperthyroidism). There could be other reasons for hyperthyroidism such as thyroid nodules or thyroiditis. There is an autoimmune component to Graves’ disease. The body's immune system attacks the thyroid gland which makes it secrete too much thyroid hormone. It increases the metabolism.
Eye Problems
Graves' disease can cause swelling of tissues around the eyes, which creates a characteristic "staring" or "frightened" appearance. The eyes bulge out and the eyelids appear to be pulled back. There is less blinking. The person may have double vision, itching and weeping.
Even if the thyroid gland is not overactive thyroid, Graves' disease can also affect the eyes. It may result in a condition called Graves' ophthalmopathy (also called thyroid eye disease or TED) and pretibial myxedema
Goitre
Goitre is a swelling in the lower front portion of the neck caused by an enlarged thyroid gland.
Skin symptoms
Rarely, there may be swelling of the feet and lower legs. Skin in this swollen area may appear thicker and darker than normal skin, and it may itch.
Rapid Heartbeat
One of the symptoms of Graves’ disease is rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), a condition where there are more than 100 beats a minute. Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) or pounding of your heart (palpitations) are also linked to Grave’s disease.
Unexplained weight loss
Graves’ disease can cause sudden weight loss. Your appetite, the amount and type of food you eat remain the same or even increase but you keep losing pounds.
In Women and Elderly
In women, menstrual periods may become less frequent or stop altogether. In older people, particularly people with heart disease, the disease may cause heart failure or heart-related chest pain called angina.
Other Symptoms
Nervousness, anxiety and irritability, trembling in your hands and fingers, sweating, increased sensitivity to heat, changes in bowel patterns, fatigue, muscle weakness, difficulty sleeping, skin thinning and brittle hair are the other symptoms of graves’ disease.