Graves’ disease is the leading cause of hyperthyroidism, or overactive thyroid, in the United States. It affects an estimated one in 100 Americans. In this autoimmune disorder, the immune system targets receptors on the thyroid gland.
As a result, the thyroid produces excess thyroid hormones, triggering a potentially debilitating cascade of symptoms. Bulging eyes with decreased blinking Thin hair or skin Tremors, particularly in the hand Muscle weakness (myopathy) Visible neck swelling due to an enlarged thyroid (goiter) Difficulty swallowing or voice changes Rapid, fluttering, or irregular heartbeat Shortness of breath (dyspnea) Restlessness or insomnia Accelerated reflex responses Rapid and intense mood changes Nervousness, anxiety, or irritability Accelerated bone maturation with decreased density and increased fracture risk Decreased cholesterol levels Frequent bowel movements or diarrhea Increased sensitivity to heat and excessive sweating Unintentional weight loss despite increased appetite Irregular menstrual cycles for women Decreased libido in men Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments, and Natural Approaches Tick-Borne Diseases: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments, and Natural Approaches Mast Cell Activation Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments, and Natural Approaches This enlarged thyroid is called a goiter. It can cause visible swelling and pressure in the neck.
The excess thyroid hormones speed up the body’s metabolism, causing symptoms like weigh.