Can Graves’ disease be cured?

Dr.Rakesh Pandit, 2 mins read

Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland, causing excess hormone production. This extra amount causes increased heart rate and metabolism along with other severe symptoms if left untreated. While there is no definitive "cure" for Graves' disease, life-long treatment can effectively manage the condition and restore thyroid hormone balance.

What is Graves' Disease?

Graves' disease refers to a hyperactive thyroid gland. This gland, located in the lower part of the neck, is responsible for producing thyroid hormone using iodine from food. The thyroid hormone aids in the regulation of body weight, metabolism, heart rate, menstrual cycle, temperature and other functions.

In Graves’ disease, the immune system produces some antibodies that mistakenly attack the thyroid gland, causing it to produce excessive amounts of thyroid hormones (T4 and T3). Grave’s disease is the most common cause of hypothyroidism, which means overproduction of thyroid hormones.

Graves’ disease can cause various symptoms like:

• Weight loss
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Nervousness, anxiety or irritability
• Increased appetite
• Diarrhoea or increased bowel movement
• Fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating
• Heart palpitation or chest pain
• Intolerance to extreme heat or sweating
• Hand tremor
• Thin, warm, and moist skin
• Muscle weakness
• Menstrual changes
• Eye problems
• Difficulty swallowing and breathing
• Enlarged thyroid (Goiter)
• Enlarged breast in men
• Changes in hair texture and hair loss
• Difficulty sleeping

Treatment of Graves’ Disease

The following treatments can help effectively manage the condition:

Medications: You may be prescribed anti-thyroid medications (e.g., methimazole) to reduce thyroid hormone production. Beta-blockers may also be prescribed to alleviate symptoms like heart problems.

Radioactive Iodine (RAI) Therapy: This treatment involves taking radioactive iodine in pill or liquid form. Gradually, radiation destroys the thyroid gland cells. This is done to shrink the size of the gland to bring the hormone level into the normal range.

Surgery: In large goitres or severe eye symptoms, doctors recommend surgical removal of the thyroid gland called thyroidectomy.

Lifestyle Changes: Exercise regularly, manage stress, and maintain a healthy diet.
Remission and Long-Term Management
With proper treatment, up to 50% of patients have a chance of remission. Here are the factors that influence remission rates:

Disease severity: Mild cases are more likely to achieve long-term remission.
Treatment type: With treatment options like RAI therapy and surgery, there are often higher chances of remission. Discuss with your doctor which treatment option is more suitable for you.
Patient compliance: How better you adhere to medication regimen and lifestyle changes also affects your remission chances.

Takeaway!

Currently, Graves' disease has no cure, but with effective treatment and lifestyle changes, many patients can manage symptoms and achieve remission. If you're living with Graves' disease, consult our experts to determine the treatment options and explore ways to improve your quality of life.