Which clinical indicators are consistent with a diagnosis of hyperthyroidism?
Graves' disease is an immune system disorder that results in the overproduction of thyroid hormones (hyperthyroidism). Although a number of disorders may result in hyperthyroidism, Graves' disease is a common cause. Show
Thyroid hormones affect many body systems, so signs and symptoms of Graves' disease can be wide ranging. Although Graves' disease may affect anyone, it's more common among women and in people younger than age 40. The primary treatment goals are to reduce the amount of thyroid hormones that the body produces and lessen the severity of symptoms. Products & Services
SymptomsEnlarged thyroid Open pop-up dialog boxClose Enlarged thyroidEnlarged thyroidWidespread enlargement of the thyroid can expand the gland well beyond its typical size (left) and cause a noticeable bulge in the neck (right). Common signs and symptoms of Graves' disease include:
Graves' ophthalmopathyGraves' ophthalmopathy Open pop-up dialog boxClose Graves' ophthalmopathyGraves' ophthalmopathyGraves' ophthalmopathy signs and symptoms include bulging eyes, redness and retracting eyelids. About 30% of people with Graves' disease show some signs and symptoms of Graves' ophthalmopathy. In Graves' ophthalmopathy, inflammation and other immune system events affect muscles and other tissues around your eyes. Signs and symptoms may include:
Graves' dermopathyGraves' dermopathy Open pop-up dialog boxClose Graves' dermopathyGraves' dermopathyRarely, people who have Graves' disease develop a reddish thickening of the skin that resembles the texture of an orange peel (Graves' dermopathy). This results from a buildup of protein in the skin. It often occurs on the shins and on the tops of the feet. An uncommon manifestation of Graves' disease, called Graves' dermopathy, is the reddening and thickening of the skin, most often on your shins or the tops of your feet. When to see a doctorA number of medical conditions can cause the signs and symptoms associated with Graves' disease. See your doctor if you experience any potential problems related to Graves' disease to get a prompt and accurate diagnosis. Seek emergency care if you're experiencing heart-related signs and symptoms, such as a rapid or irregular heartbeat, or if you develop vision loss. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic There is a problem with information submitted for this request. Review/update the information highlighted below and resubmit the form. Sign up for free, and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID-19, plus expertise on managing health. Email ErrorEmail field is required ErrorInclude a valid email address To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information, and understand which information is beneficial, we may combine your email and website usage information with other information we have about you. If you are a Mayo Clinic patient, this could include protected health information. If we combine this information with your protected health information, we will treat all of that information as protected health information and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of privacy practices. You may opt-out of email communications at any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link in the e-mail. |