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Graves’ Disease


Doodlebrary

Doodlebrary

Wednesday 2nd of October 2024 08:45:46 PM

  • Definition:
  • Autoimmune disorder affecting the thyroid gland.
  • Causes overproduction of thyroid hormones (hyperthyroidism).
  • Symptoms:
  • Weight loss despite increased appetite.
  • Rapid heartbeat or palpitations.
  • Nervousness, anxiety, or irritability.
  • Tremors, especially in the hands.
  • Heat sensitivity and excessive sweating.
  • Increased bowel movements.
  • Goiter (enlarged thyroid gland).
  • Exophthalmos (bulging eyes).
  • Fatigue or muscle weakness.
  • Menstrual irregularities in women.
  • Causes:
  • Autoimmune response, where the immune system attacks the thyroid.
  • Production of thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins (TSIs) leads to overactive thyroid.
  • Trigger factors: genetics, infections, stress, and environmental elements.
  • Risk Factors:
  • More common in women.
  • Often diagnosed between ages 30–50.
  • Family history of autoimmune diseases.
  • Other autoimmune conditions like type 1 diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Smoking, which can increase eye-related complications.
  • Complications:
  • Thyroid storm: life-threatening condition with fever, rapid heart rate, and delirium.
  • Heart issues: arrhythmias or heart failure.
  • Osteoporosis: due to long-term excess thyroid hormone.
  • Graves’ ophthalmopathy: bulging eyes, vision problems, or pain.
  • Graves’ dermopathy: rare skin condition, causing thickened, red skin.
  • Diagnosis:
  • Blood tests to check levels of thyroid hormones (T3, T4) and TSH.
  • Antibody tests to detect thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins.
  • Radioactive iodine uptake test to measure how much iodine the thyroid absorbs.
  • Thyroid ultrasound to assess thyroid size and structure.
  • Treatment:
  • Antithyroid medications: Methimazole, propylthiouracil (PTU) to reduce hormone production.
  • Radioactive iodine therapy: Destroys part of the thyroid to limit hormone production.
  • Beta-blockers: Manage symptoms like rapid heart rate and tremors.
  • Thyroidectomy: Surgical removal of the thyroid in severe or unresponsive cases.
  • Eye treatments: Corticosteroids or surgery for Graves’ ophthalmopathy.
  • Management:
  • Lifelong monitoring and treatment adjustments are often needed.
  • With proper treatment, most individuals can manage symptoms and lead a normal life.

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