Graves' Disease is an autoimmune disorder where the thyroid produces too many thyroid hormones. It is the most common form of hyperthyroidism in the U.S.

-Anxiety
-Irritability
-Difficulty sleeping
-Fatigue
-A rapid or irregular heartbeat
-A fine tremor of your hands or fingers
-An increase in perspiration or warm, moist skin
-Sensitivity to heat

-Weight loss, despite normal eating habits
-Enlargement of your thyroid gland (goiter)
-Change in menstrual cycles
-Erectile dysfunction or reduced libido
-Frequent bowel movements or diarrhea
-Protrusion of the eyes (exophthalmos)
-Thick, red skin usually on the shins or tops of the feet (Graves' dermopathy)

COMPLICATIONS

• Pregnancy complications
• Heart disorders
• Thyroid storm
• Brittle bones

TESTS

• Physical Exam
• Blood sample
• Radioactive iodine uptake
• Imaging tests

The treatment goals for Graves' disease are to inhibit the production of thyroid hormones and to block the effect of the hormones on the body.
Some treatments include radioactive iodine therapy, anti-thyroid medications, beta-blockers, or surgery.

The information in this presentation was derived from Medical Assisting 5th Edition and www.mayoclinic.org
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