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Graves Disease

Autoimmune Hyperthyroidism — Modern Diagnosis and Treatment

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Endokrinoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Graves Disease?

Graves disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism in iodine-sufficient areas, caused by stimulating TSH receptor antibodies (TRAb).

Characteristic features include diffuse goiter, hyperthyroidism, Graves ophthalmopathy, and less commonly pretibial myxedema.

Diagnosis relies on suppressed TSH, elevated free T4/T3, and positive TRAb; RAIU scan shows diffuse uptake.

Management options include antithyroid drugs (methimazole/propylthiouracil), radioactive iodine, or thyroidectomy, with individualized choice.

Symptoms

Palpitations, tachycardia, and atrial fibrillation
Heat intolerance, excessive sweating, weight loss despite good appetite
Tremor, anxiety, irritability, and insomnia
Diarrhea or increased bowel movements
Proptosis, eyelid retraction, and diplopia (thyroid eye disease)
Muscle weakness, fatigue, and oligomenorrhea

Risk Factors

Female sex and age 30–50 years
Family history of autoimmune thyroid disease or other autoimmunity
Smoking (especially a risk factor for ophthalmopathy)
Stress and postpartum period
Iodine excess in susceptible persons
Certain HLA haplotypes and viral triggers

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Symptomatic hyperthyroidism or new-onset atrial fibrillation
  • Orbitopathy with eye pain, vision changes, or diplopia
  • Unexplained weight loss, tremor, or palpitations warranting TSH testing

Treatment Methods

01
Methimazole first-line (propylthiouracil in first trimester or thyroid storm) for 12–18 months with TRAb monitoring
02
Radioactive iodine (I-131) for relapse or preferred definitive therapy; avoid in pregnancy and severe ophthalmopathy
03
Thyroidectomy for large goiter, severe ophthalmopathy, suspected malignancy, or pregnancy intolerance
04
Beta-blockers (propranolol, atenolol) for symptomatic relief during thyrotoxicosis
05
Smoking cessation and ophthalmology referral for moderate-severe Graves ophthalmopathy (selenium, teprotumumab, steroids)
06
Post-treatment lifelong monitoring for hypothyroidism; patient education on signs of relapse or storm

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Endokrinoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.