Graves' Disease - Common Signs and Symptoms

Graves' disease is a common autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid gland, causing it to overfunction and produce too much thyroid hormone. While some of the symptoms of Graves' disease, such as weight loss, palpitations, and fatigue, are well known, there are some unusual signs you may miss. Here are five signs to watch for:

Eye Problems: Graves' disease can cause eye symptoms such as bulging eyes, double vision, light sensitivity, and even vision loss in severe cases. These eye problems may not always be directly related to thyroid problems, but they can indicate underlying autoimmune activity.

Skin Changes: Some people with Graves' disease may experience skin problems such as redness, swelling, or thickening of the skin, especially in the lower legs and feet. This condition is called pretibial myxedema, and while rare, it can be a sign of the disease.

Hand Tremors: One of the lesser-known symptoms of Graves' disease is hand tremors or tremors. Too much thyroid hormone in the body can cause increased metabolic activity, resulting in slight hand tremors that may be more noticeable during activities such as holding a cup or writing.

Hair loss: Thinning hair or hair loss (also known as alopecia) can be a surprising symptom of Graves' disease. Hormonal imbalances caused by an overactive thyroid can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to noticeable hair loss or bald patches.

Mood swings: While mood swings are often associated with other conditions such as anxiety or depression, they can also be associated with Graves' disease. High thyroid hormone levels can affect brain function and neurotransmitter activity, leading to mood swings, irritability, and even panic attacks.

Understanding these unusual symptoms of Graves' disease is essential for early detection and effective treatment of the disease. If you suspect you have any of these symptoms, you should definitely see your doctor for a proper exam and diagnosis. Remember, early intervention can make a big difference in managing Graves' disease and improving your quality of life.