Graves’ Disease – Symptoms and Causes

ByJanis Updated

Understanding Graves’ Disease

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune condition that primarily targets the thyroid gland. When someone has this disease, their body produces excess thyroid hormone, creating a state called hyperthyroidism. This overproduction affects multiple body systems and organs.

The disease can develop in anyone, though it appears more frequently in women and individuals over 30 years old. Because thyroid hormones regulate many bodily functions, the symptoms of Graves’ disease can be widespread.

Key Facts:

  • Autoimmune disorder affecting the thyroid
  • Causes hyperthyroidism (excess thyroid hormone)
  • More common in women than in men
  • Usually affects people over 30

Medical treatment focuses on reducing thyroid hormone levels to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Signs and Symptoms

Graves’ disease can cause many different symptoms. People might feel nervous or irritable, and their hands might shake slightly. They often feel too hot and sweat more than usual.

Weight loss can still occur even when feelings of hunger intensify. The thyroid gland can become larger, creating a bulge in the neck called a goiter.

Women may notice changes in their menstrual cycles. Men might experience erectile dysfunction or reduced sexual desire. Other common symptoms include frequent bowel movements, tiredness, and difficulty sleeping.

Heart-related symptoms are also common, with many people experiencing fast or irregular heartbeats.

Eye Problems

About 25% of people with Graves’ disease experience thyroid eye disease (TED), which affects eye muscles and tissues. Symptoms include:

  • Eyes that bulge outward
  • Gritty sensation in the eyes
  • Pain or pressure in the eye area
  • Swollen eyelids that don’t fully close
  • Red or inflamed eyes
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Blurry or double vision
  • Severe cases can lead to vision loss

These eye symptoms can occur independently of thyroid hormone levels, meaning they may persist even with proper treatment.

Skin Changes

Some people with Graves’ disease develop skin problems, though this is rare. The condition causes darkening and thickening of the skin, most commonly on the shins or tops of the feet. The affected skin gets a bumpy texture similar to orange peel.

This skin condition, known as Graves’ dermopathy, happens because proteins build up in the skin. It’s usually mild and doesn’t cause pain.

When to Contact a Doctor

If you notice any symptoms of Graves’ disease, make an appointment with your healthcare provider. Getting diagnosed early is important for proper treatment.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • A fast or irregular heartbeat
  • Severe vision changes or loss
  • Extreme eye pain

Many conditions can cause symptoms similar to Graves’ disease, so professional evaluation is necessary for correct diagnosis and treatment.

Causes of Graves’ Disease

Graves’ disease occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, causing it to produce excess thyroid hormone. Scientists believe that genetic, environmental, and immune system factors contribute to this disorder.

Risk Factors

Several factors may increase your chances of developing Graves’ disease:

  • Family Connection: Having relatives with thyroid or autoimmune conditions raises your risk.
  • Gender Differences. Women develop this condition much more frequently than men.
  • Age Consideration. Most cases occur between ages 30–60.
  • Existing Autoimmune Disorders: Having conditions like type 1 diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis increases risk.
  • Tobacco Use: Smoking affects immune function and increases the likelihood of thyroid eye disease.

These risk factors don’t guarantee that someone will develop Graves’ disease, but they can help identify individuals who should monitor for early symptoms.

Complications

Graves’ disease may lead to several health issues if not properly managed. These complications can affect different body systems.

Pregnancy Risks

  • Miscarriage
  • Premature birth
  • Growth problems in the baby
  • Thyroid abnormalities in the fetus
  • Heart failure in the pregnant person
  • Preeclampsia (high blood pressure with serious symptoms)

Heart Problems

Left untreated, Graves’ disease can significantly impact heart health. It can cause irregular heartbeats and change how the heart functions. In severe cases, the heart may not pump blood effectively, leading to heart failure.

Thyroid Storm

This is a rare but life-threatening emergency. It happens when thyroid hormone levels suddenly spike to dangerous levels. Without immediate medical care, it can be fatal.

Signs of thyroid storm include:

  • High fever
  • Excessive sweating
  • Mental confusion or delirium
  • Extreme weakness
  • Tremors
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Dangerously low blood pressure
  • Possible comma

Bone Health Issues

When hyperthyroidism goes untreated, it can lead to osteoporosis (weak, brittle bones). This happens because excess thyroid hormones interfere with calcium absorption into the bones. Over time, this weakens the bone structure and increases fracture risk.

Health Writer

Janis's areas of expertise include nutrition, exercise, stress management, and mental health. She is passionate about educating and empowering people to take control of their health and make positive changes that can last a lifetime. Janis believes that small, sustainable changes are the key to long-term success, and she works with her clients to develop personalized plans that fit their individual needs and lifestyles.