Graves' disease

• Fact: Women are four times more likely to get Graves’ disease than men are.
• Proportion of risk that’s in your genes: 64 percent.
• What you can do: Take a gene test. Being aware of your genetic risk of Graves’ disease can enable you and your doctor to be alert for symptoms so you can take the necessary steps to treat the condition as early as possible.
• Did you know? Three to four percent of people with Graves' disease have no symptoms.

Graves’ disease is the most common form of hyperthyroidism, or overactive thyroid. It occurs when your immune system goes a bit haywire, mistakenly attacking your thyroid gland and causing it to overproduce a hormone called thyroxine. This can affect the tissue behind your eyes (causing a “bug-eyed” appearance), as well as parts of your skin (causing a localized thickening). The higher hormone levels can also increase your body’s metabolic rate, leading to brittle bones and even heart problems.

About 3 million Americans suffer from Graves' disease, which usually develops after age 20. Symptoms are extremely common and extremely varied. They range from weight loss and rapid heart rate to bulging eyes and swelling at the front of the neck.

The disease most often stems from genetic risk factors. Having one or two copies of the known genetic variants can raise your risk of developing Graves' disease. Our genetic test can help you determine the extent of your genetic risk.

Doctors don’t yet know how to stop the immune system from attacking the thyroid gland in patients with Graves’ disease. Treating Graves' disease usually entails controlling the symptoms  and either decreases the production of the hormone thyroxine or blocks its action.

Reducing stress and quitting smoking are both promising prevention measures.