Basedow’s disease, also known as Graves’ disease, happens when the thyroid gland makes too much thyroid hormone, leading to a condition called hyperthyroidism. Your thyroid, a gland shaped like a butterfly in your throat, produces hormones that control many important functions like metabolism and brain activity.
People with Basedow’s disease might experience various symptoms, such as anxiety, diarrhea, and skin problems. But the good news is, there are treatments available that are safe and work well for most people. With proper treatment, many individuals with this condition can lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
Symptoms
Symptoms of Basedow’s disease are similar to those of other forms of hyperthyroidism. These symptoms can manifest in various ways:
- Fast or irregular heartbeat, along with palpitations.
- Frequent bowel movements or Diarrhea
- Goiter, which is an enlarged thyroid gland.
- Heat intolerance, meaning difficulty tolerating high temperatures.
- Feelings of irritability and nervousness
- Fatigue and muscle weakness.
- Quivers in the hands.
- Skin that feels moist and smooth.
- Difficulty sleeping, often due to restlessness.
- Unintentional weight loss.
- Heavy periods and irregular menstrual cycles.
These symptoms can vary in severity from person to person and may require different approaches to treatment depending on individual circumstances.
Complications
Complications associated with Basedow’s disease can be serious and may include conditions specific to this type of hyperthyroidism, such as Graves’ dermopathy and ophthalmopathy. Additionally, other complications can arise, including stroke, heart disease, or problems with the heart, as well as thinning bones causing osteoporosis. In rare cases, a sudden and severe worsening of symptoms, known as a thyroid storm, can occur, posing a life-threatening situation.
These complications often develop in individuals who are not receiving proper treatment or have severe forms of the disease that are not effectively managed. Moreover, having Basedow’s disease can increase the chance of growing other autoimmune conditions. Some autoimmune conditions that have been observed alongside Basedow’s disease involve rheumatoid arthritis, Addison’s disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, type 1 diabetes, celiac disease, and vitiligo. Understanding and managing these potential complications are essential for the comprehensive care and treatment of individuals with Basedow’s disease.
Causes
The exact causes of Basedow’s disease remain unclear, but ongoing research suggests that it likely involves a combination of genetic factors and external triggers. These triggers may include bacterial or viral infections, hormonal changes like those experienced during menopause, particular medications, or an excess of iodine in the body.
Iodine is crucial for the production of thyroid hormones, and insufficient iodine levels can impair the thyroid’s ability to produce these hormones. Conversely, an excess of iodine can also disrupt thyroid function. Therefore, maintaining a balance of iodine in the body is essential for proper thyroid health.
The precise interplay of these factors in the development of Basedow’s disease is still being studied.
Risk factors
Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing Basedow’s disease. These risk factors include being assigned female at birth, falling within the age range of 30 to 50 years old, and affecting another autoimmune condition. However, it’s essential to note that Basedow’s disease can affect individuals of any gender and age, including young children.
While these risk factors may increase the chances of developing the condition, they do not guarantee its occurrence. These factors can help individuals and healthcare professionals recognize potential signs and symptoms early on, facilitating timely diagnosis and treatment.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing Basedow’s disease involves several steps:
Physical exam
During a simple examination, your healthcare provider may observe various symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, tremors, changes in the skin, increased reflexes, and thyroid gland which is enlarged.
Blood tests
Your healthcare provider will check your levels of TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) and thyroid hormones. They also test for specific thyroid antibodies known as thyrotropin receptor antibodies (TRAbs) and thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI). The immune system makes these antibodies when it detects dangers in the body.
Imaging
In some cases, a thyroid scan may be performed to detect signs of overactivity, goiter (enlarged thyroid), or inflammation. This scan can also calculate the gland’s uptake of iodine, known as a radioactive iodine uptake test (RAIU).
These diagnostic tests help healthcare providers confirm the presence of Basedow’s disease and assess its severity. Early detection and diagnosis are crucial for initiating appropriate treatment and managing the condition effectively.
Treatment
Treatment options for Basedow’s disease focus on reducing the activity of the thyroid gland. The main treatments include medications, surgery, and radioactive iodine therapy.
Medications
Anti-thyroid medications are commonly used to decrease the production of thyroid hormones. These drugs, such as Tapazole (methimazole) and Propycil (propylthiouracil), work by preventing the thyroid from using iodine to make hormones. Tapazole is often preferred for teenagers and children, while Propycil may be safer for pregnant individuals.
Radioactive Iodine
This treatment involves swallowing a liquid containing radioactive iodine, which the thyroid absorbs. The radiation destroys thyroid tissue, reducing hormone production. While this treatment is considered a cure for Basedow’s disease, it can lead to low thyroid hormone levels (hypothyroidism), requiring the use of synthetic thyroid hormones such as levothyroxine to maintain balance. Despite the term “radioactive,” this treatment has been found to be safe and is commonly used in the United States for hyperthyroidism. It’s often referred to as radioiodine to alleviate concerns about its name.
Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be recommended to remove part or all of the thyroid gland. This option is typically considered when other treatments are not suitable or have failed to adequately control the condition.
Each treatment option has its benefits and risks, and the choice depends on factors such as the severity of the disease, individual health status, and patient preferences. It’s essential to discuss the options thoroughly with a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable treatment plan.
Summary
Basedow’s disease, also known as Graves’ disease, results in excess thyroid hormones, accelerating metabolism and causing various symptoms. It’s probably caused by a mix of genetics and environmental factors like stress and illness. Treatment aims to either hinder thyroid activity with medications or eliminate hyperthyroidism by damaging or removing thyroid tissues.
