Graves' disease is a type of autoimmune problem that develops when the immune system attacks the thyroid gland. The result is an overproduction of the hormone thyroxine. According to the Mayo Clinic, Graves' disease is the most common form of hyperthyroidism or over-active thyroid, a condition caused by the overproduction of thyroid hormones. Thyroid treatments for Graves' disease can decrease the production of thyroxine and ease symptoms.
Antithyroid Medications
Propylthiouracil and methiamazole are two prescription medications that prevent the thyroid gland from producing excessive amounts of thyroxine. Treatment is typically 1-year in duration. Long-term remission is achieved, in some cases, with a treatment protocol of 1 to 2 years. Relapse is common. Serious liver damage is a side effect of both of these medications, though this complication is more common with propylthiouracil. Propylthiouracil is recommended only when a patient cannot tolerate methiamazole.
Radioactive Iodine
Iodine is a normal requirement for the production of thyroxine. Radioactive iodine treatment gradually destroys the overactive thyroid cells, causes the thyroid gland to shrink, and results in a decrease of symptoms over several weeks or several months. Supplemental thyroxine treatment is necessary to supply the body with normal amounts of thyroxine. Any radioactive iodine that is not absorbed by the thyroid gland is excreted in the urine and saliva. The risk of developing or worsening of Graves' ophthalmopathy is a side effect of radioactive iodine treatment. Graves' ophthalmopathy is an inflammation and swelling of the extraocular muscle that controls eye movement. The swollen eye muscles force the eyeball to bulge out of the eye socket.
Thyroidectomy
Thyroidectomy, which is the surgical removal of the thyroid gland, is the treatment option when anti-thyroid medications are not tolerated and radioactive iodine treatment is refused. Supplemental thyroxine treatment is necessary to supply the body with normal amounts of thyroxine. Potential damage to the vocal cords and parathyroid glands is a risk factor of this surgery. The parathyroid glands are located next to the thyroid glands and produce a hormone that controls the level of calcium in the blood.
