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Graves' Disease is a condition of autoimmunity primarily affecting the thyroid gland, and is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism (excess thyroid hormone). In some people the antibodies also affect the eyes, causing them to protrude from their orbits and/or retracting the eyelids, producing a buggy-eyed or "staring" appearance, and this sometimes results in double vision and other problems. Rarely--usually in people who also have  obvious eye disease--the skin over the shins and tops of feet is affected (pretibial myxedema).  Even more rarely, the myxedema can occur on other skin areas.

Since thyroid imbalances affect the function of every cell and every part of the body (including the brain), Graves' Disease presents with many physical and neuropsychological symptoms, which vary somewhat from one person to another.  Depending on treatment choice, it can take many months--and often several years--to stabilize thyroid levels, and for the mind and body to return mostly to normal.  Several studies have found that a percentage of patients have ongoing problems, even after successful treatment.   Following treatment, many patients have trouble with unwanted weight gain.  Graves' Disease can also cause difficulty conceiving and problems for women who become pregnant.

Because of the variety of symptoms, people with Graves' Disease sometimes experience delays in diagnosis, or are misdiagnosed with mental disorders. This disease can have negative effects on relationships and careers, especially since Graves' is so little understood by others, and because the patient's behavior may be confused with character defects or psychological disorders--sometimes even by doctors, who should know that symptoms of this type are caused by the disease.

This page was developed especially for those who are newly diagnosed (and their families) in order to provide education, support, and connection with others who know what Graves' Disease actually means in a human life.   I'm also hoping to help correct public misconceptions about thyroid disease, as there is a tendency to trivialize it. The best way I know to accomplish these tasks is to provide a forum for us to share our stories with each other.

Once properly treated and stabilized, many people with Graves' have few problems thereafter--especially those who were diagnosed and treated early.  The information in this website is not presented in order to worry anyone unnecessarily.   Hopefully it will validate, support, and inform those who are experiencing the more severe manifestations of the disease, and empower everyone to achieve the best health possible.

This page also contains personal info about my life and interests, to share with friends and family on the internet--and to demonstrate that life with Graves' can be good again.

* The information in this web site is for educational purposes only and is not providing medical or professional advice. It should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. It is not a substitute for professional medical care. If you have or suspect you might have any health problems, you should consult a physician.