Graves’ Disease Treatment in Indore

Graves’ Disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes the thyroid gland to become overactive (hyperthyroidism).

It is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism worldwide.

In Graves’ Disease, the immune system produces thyroid-stimulating antibodies (TSI) that bind to the thyroid gland and trigger excess production of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4).

This excess hormone affects metabolism, the heart, the nervous system, and other organs.

Causes & Risk Factors

1. Autoimmune Dysfunction

The immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid, stimulating it to overproduce hormones.

2. Genetic Predisposition

Family history of autoimmune diseases or Graves’ Disease increases risk.

3. Environmental Triggers

Stress

Infection

Smoking (strongly linked to eye involvement)

4. Gender & Age

More common in women compared to men

Typically develops between the ages of 30-50

How Graves’ Disease Affects the Body (Mechanism)

Thyroid-stimulating antibodies activate the thyroid gland.

Excess thyroid hormone enters the bloodstream.

Symptoms manifest as a result of increased metabolism and overactivity of organs:

Heart palpitations, racing heartbeat

Nervous system (apprehension, tremors)

Eyes (Graves' ophthalmopathy)

Skin (Graves’ dermopathy, rare)

Symptoms of Graves’ Disease

General Symptoms

Weight loss despite good or even increased appetite

Heat intolerance, sweating

Fatigue, muscle weakness

Trembling of hands

Increased heart rate, palpitations

Anxiety, irritability

Sleep disturbances

Eye Symptoms (Graves’ Ophthalmopathy)

Protruding eyes (exophthalmos)

Redness and irritation

Puffy eyelids

Double vision

Pain or pressure in the eyes

Other Symptoms

Goitre (enlarged thyroid)

Hair thinning

Brittle nails

Increased bowel movement

Menstrual disorders among females

Complications If Untreated

Thyroid: life-threatening sudden hormone surge

Severe cardiovascular conditions (arrhythmias, heart failure)

Osteoporosis - due to chronic hormone excess

Permanent eye damage or loss of vision

Psychological problems (severe anxiety, depression)

Diagnosis

1. Blood Tests

TSH-usually very low in Graves' Disease

Free T3 & T4- Increased

Thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins (TSI)

2. Imaging

Thyroid ultrasound

A radioactive iodine uptake scan measures the activity of the thyroid

3. Eye Exam

Slit-lamp eye exam for ophthalmopathy

Conventional Medical Treatment

Treatment aims to normalise thyroid hormone levels and manage complications.

1. Anti-Thyroid Medications

Methimazole or Propylthiouracil (PTU)

Reduce the production of thyroid hormone

2. Beta-Blockers

Control rapid heartbeat, tremors, anxiety, and sweating

Do not deplete thyroid hormone, but alleviate symptoms

3. Radioactive Iodine Therapy

Kills overactive thyroid cells

May result in permanent hypothyroidism-requires lifelong hormone replacement

4. Surgical: Thyroidectomy

Partial or complete thyroidectomy in severe or resistant cases

Often necessary if a large goitre, symptoms of compression, or eye involvement

Lifestyle, Diet & Supportive Care

1. Nutritional Support

A balanced diet that would supply energy requirements

Adequate calcium & vitamin D to protect bones

Avoid Excess Iodine Unless Prescribed

2. Stress Management

Yoga, meditation, and deep breathing reduce stress.

Stress can trigger flare-ups or exacerbate symptoms.

3. Eye Care

Dryness of the eye, lubricating drops

Sunglasses for eye protection

The head of the bed is elevated while sleeping

Eye exercises as recommended by an ophthalmologist

4. Complementary / Integrative Approaches

Homoeopathy or Ayurveda may support:

Fatigue

Anxiety

Sleep Disturbances

These approaches do not replace standard medical treatment but may improve overall well-being

Prognosis. With early diagnosis and appropriate management, Most patients have normalisation of thyroid function. Eye symptoms may remain stable or improve. Regular follow-up prevents complications. Lifelong monitoring may be needed, especially if thyroid hormone levels fluctuate or after surgery/RAI therapy