It is an increase in thyroid hormones secondary to an increase in the normal function of the thyroid gland. It is more frequent in women over 20 years of age.
It has an autoimmune origin, the person's immune system produces antibodies that attack the body's own tissues. The antibodies damage the cells and worsen their ability to function. In this disease, the antibodies stimulate the thyroid to produce and secrete an excessive amount of thyroid hormone into the bloodstream.
Characteristic symptoms include enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter), protrusion of the eyes (exophthalmos) and localized swelling (myxedema). They may be accompanied by tremors, tachycardia, nervousness, insomnia, excessive sweating and weight loss.
Diagnosis is clinical, by interrogation and physical examination. It also requires a blood test to confirm the excess of thyroid hormones. An imaging test may be requested to complete the study of the gland.
Treatment is based on reducing thyroid overstimulation by means of drugs, radioactive iodine and/or surgery. Beta-blocking drugs accelerate the improvement of symptoms.
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