🔅 GRAVES DISEASE
– This is a condition that causes hyperthyroidism, which is an overproduction of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland.
The thyroid gland is a small organ in the neck that regulates metabolism, growth, and development.
– The cause of Graves disease is an autoimmune disorder that stimulates the thyroid gland to produce too much hormones.
– The symptoms of Graves disease include: nervousness, anxiety, irritability, insomnia, tremors, palpitations, weight loss, heat intolerance, excessive sweating, diarrhea, menstrual irregularities, enlarged thyroid gland (goiter), eye problems (such as bulging eyes or double vision), or skin problems (such as thickening or redness of the skin on the shins).
– The diagnosis of Graves disease is based on the medical history, physical examination,
blood tests (such as thyroid-stimulating hormone or thyroxine levels), antibody tests (such as thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin or thyroid peroxidase antibodies), or imaging tests (such as ultrasound or radioactive iodine uptake test).
– The treatment of Graves disease involves: medications (such as anti-thyroid drugs or beta-blockers), radioactive iodine therapy (which destroys part of the thyroid gland), or surgery (which removes part or all of the thyroid gland).
– The prevention of Graves disease is not possible in most cases, but it may help to avoid triggers (such as stress or infections) that may worsen the condition.
– The dietary recommendations for Graves disease are: to eat a balanced and nutritious diet
that provides enough calories, protein, vitamins,
and minerals; avoid foods that may interfere with thyroid function (such as iodine-rich foods or goitrogens); and take supplements if needed.
