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Management of Graves' Disease

Diagnostic and treatment approaches for autoimmune hyperthyroidism.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

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

What is Management of Graves' Disease?

Graves' disease is an autoimmune disease that leads to excessive thyroid hormone production by continuous stimulation of the thyroid gland by stimulating antibodies (TRAb) formed against the TSH receptor. It is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism (60-80%).

It presents as a clinical triad of diffuse goiter, hyperthyroidism, Graves' ophthalmopathy (eye involvement) and rarely pretibial myxedema (dermopathy). In ophthalmopathy, proptosis, eyelid retraction, periorbital edema and diplopia may develop.

Treatment options include antithyroid drugs (thionamides), radioactive iodine therapy and surgery. Treatment selection is individualized based on the patient's age, disease severity, ophthalmopathy and preference.

Symptoms

Palpitations and tachycardia
Weight loss (despite increased appetite)
Tremor and nervousness
Heat intolerance and sweating
Eye complaints (proptosis, dry eye, diplopia)
Diffuse goiter

Risk Factors

Female sex (7-10 times more common)
Family history
Other autoimmune diseases
Smoking (especially increased risk in ophthalmopathy)
Stressful life events

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • If palpitations, weight loss and tremor develop
  • If eye swelling or double vision is present
  • If enlargement is noticed in the neck
  • Signs of thyroid storm (high fever, confusion — emergency)

Treatment Methods

01
Antithyroid drugs: Methimazole (first choice) or propylthiouracil
02
Beta-blockers (symptom control — propranolol)
03
Radioactive iodine (I-131) therapy
04
Total thyroidectomy (for large goiter or drug intolerance)
05
Graves' ophthalmopathy: Selenium, corticosteroid, teprotumumab

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.