What is Graves’ Disease?
Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes the thyroid gland to become hyperactive and overproduce its hormones (hyperthyroidism). It was first described in the mid-1800s in an attempt to treat women with large thyroid glands and abnormal heartbeats. Graves’ disease is more common among women and is more prevalent in ages less than 40 years old.
What are the symptoms of Graves’ disease?
As the thyroid gland affects different body organ systems, the symptoms range widely. The symptoms include unexplained weight loss, abnormal menstrual cycles, anxiety, irritability, fatigue, bulging of the eyes (Graves’ ophthalmopathy), irregular heartbeat/palpitations, feeling shaky or nervous, increased appetite, thick red skin particularly on top of feet, fine tremor in hands and fingers, enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter), sleep disturbances (Graves' disease, 2022).
What are the factors?
• Family history: Having a family history of Graves’ disease automatically predisposes other members of the family to a risk of developing this disorder.
• Mental and Physical stress: Stress may trigger the onset of Graves’ disease in one already carrying a gene for Graves’ disease.
• Other autoimmune conditions: People having other autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, Type 1 diabetes, or lupus, have an increased risk of developing Graves’ disease.
• Gender: Female gender is more at risk for developing this disorder.
What is Graves’ ophthalmopathy?
Graves’ disease often affects muscles and tissues around the eyes. When this occurs, there is often bulging of the eyes with the sensation of grittiness and pressure in the eyes. Eyeballs are often red and/or inflamed and often puffy in appearance. The vision is affected as well so the person may experience blurred vision or double vision (Wartofsky, 2021).
How is Graves’ disease diagnosed?
• Ultrasound: This test uses sound waves to take an image of the thyroid gland at the base of your neck. An enlarged gland could suggest Graves’ disease.
• Blood test: Patients with Graves’ disease may have elevated thyroid hormone levels. A blood test may also detect the presence of thyroid antibodies. Usually, patients with Graves’ disease could have low levels of thyroid stimulating hormone/TSH with elevated free T3 and free T4. Keep in mind that some patients with mild Graves disease could have a negative thyroid antibody test.
• Radioactive iodine: This is a test using iodine to help your provider determine how much iodine the thyroid absorbs. Elevated levels could suggest Graves’ disease.
• Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI may be opted for if the diagnosis is undiscernible from clinical analysis.
What are some dietary changes that can be made?
• Eliminate milk/milk products.
• Increase intake of antioxidant-rich foods such as berries.
• Increase the amount of calcium intake, as having this disorder increases calcium loss from bones (Aguilar, 2017).
• Remove seed oils /vegetable oils. Remember that fried foods may contain trans-fatty acids. Use coconut oil, extra-virgin olive oil, or avocado oil.
• Additionally, ginger and turmeric have been known to reduce overall inflammation.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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