Graves’ disease only impacts the thyroid.
Correct answer: False
While Graves’ disease directly impacts the thyroid, the gland is responsible for regulating several functions in your body. Because of this, different systems within your body can be affected, including your heart, skin and GI tract. It also commonly affects the eyes as the muscles and fatty tissues behind them become swollen, resulting in thyroid eye disease.
Graves’ is a rare disease.
Correct answer: True
Graves’ disease affects about 2-3% of the general population, according to the National Organization of Rare Disorders. Additionally, about half of people diagnosed with Graves’ develop thyroid eye disease. Common risk factors include: a family history of thyroid or other autoimmune disorders, being assigned female at birth, being between 30 and 60-years-old, the presence of another autoimmune disorder and smoking.
Graves’ disease can affect your sleep cycle.
Correct answer: True
Hyperthyroidism due to Graves’ disease can interrupt the production of essential hormones involved in your sleep-wake cycle. This can cause mood issues, like irritability, that make it hard for you to fall and stay asleep. Physically, hyperthyroidism can also cause night sweats and frequent bathroom visits that can prevent you from getting quality sleep.
Graves’ disease isn’t manageable.
Correct answer: False
There are a number of options for treatment when it comes to alleviating your Graves’. These options include: beta-blockers to help control your symptoms and other complications, antithyroid and radioiodine therapy to combat hyperthyroidism and a thyroidectomy where a part of your thyroid is removed to help manage hyperthyroidism.
Graves’ disease is a chronic condition.
Correct answer: True
Because Graves’ is an autoimmune condition there is no “cure,” but controlling it is absolutely a possibility. In some instances, remission can also be achieved. As long as you stick to your treatment plan and consistently attend your endocrinologist appointments, you can keep it in check.
Were you surprised by any of the answers?
If so, take a look at the rest of this guide to learn more about Graves’ disease.