The specific manifestations of Graves disease and hyperthyroidism can vary from person to person. Therefore, proper treatment for the condition can also vary to some degree, so you should seek qualified medical treatment. In many cases, however, consuming alcohol may exaggerate your symptoms.
Graves Disease
Graves disease is a type of autoimmune disorder that leads to hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism can have several different potential causes, although Graves disease is the most common. Hyperthyroidism simply means that the thyroid gland, which is found in the neck, is producing significantly more hormones than it should.
Symptoms
Graves disease can lead to a long list of potential symptoms. Specific types and degrees of symptoms can vary widely, so you should visit your doctor if you begin to notice symptoms that have no other obvious cause. Individuals with Graves disease may experience tiredness, sleep disorders, anxiety and irritability, heartbeat disorders, hand or finger tremors, digestive disorders, unusual weight loss, increased perspiration and heat sensitivity, diminished libido and menstrual cycle changes, to name a few.
Hyperthyroidism and Alcohol
The University of Maryland Medical Center website reports that consuming alcohol may worsen your symptoms of hyperthyroidism from Graves disease. Tobacco and caffeine may also be problematic in some cases. Therefore, you should follow your doctor's advice regarding proper diet, beverage choices and other lifestyle choices while you're being treated for Graves disease.
Treatment
Your doctor can use a variety of treatment strategies to manage the symptoms of Graves disease, such as beta-blockers to help manage heart rate disorders. He will likely also prescribe you medication to reduce your thyroid's hormone production. In severe cases, you may also need surgery or radiation therapy. These forms of treatment eliminate normal thyroid function, requiring to continually take replacement thyroid hormones.
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