Graves' diseaseis an autoimmune disease of the thyroid, the butterfly-shaped organ in the front of your neck.
It’s sparked by a malfunction of the thyroid gland, leading to the overproduction of thyroid hormones.
Graves' disease is the most common cause ofhyperthyroidismin the United States.
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Common therapeutic options include antithyroid drugs, radioactive iodine therapy, andthyroidectomy(the removal of the thyroid).
Some complementary and alternative medicines have also been known to help alleviate symptoms of this condition.
This may sound concerning but it is generally safe.
During this procedure, you are given a pill to swallow.
You may experience a temporary change in taste.
RAI is a one-time therapy for most people.
If symptoms persist for six months or more, you may need a second dose.
Additionally, people who smoke have very high risk of developing thyroid eye disease after radioactive iodine therapy.
Keeping 6 feet away and sleeping alone for 3-11 days is recommended.
Thyroidectomy can be performed through an incision at the front of the neck, or through the mouth.
The first can cause permanent scarring.
Eating a low-iodine diet is important to increase the effectiveness of radioactive iodine therapy.
Caffeine can interfere with the effectiveness of some medications, but caffeine-free coffee and tea are fine to enjoy.
Supplements
There are a variety ofsupplementsthat may benefit people with Graves' disease.
Complementary therapies such as dietary changes, supplements, and at-home symptom management can also help alleviate symptoms.
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