Back toUpdated on October 23, 2024
These two autoimmune disorders have some overlapping symptoms. Learn more about the differences in this video.
Transcript
Hey, Dr. Zhu. What's the difference between Graves' disease and thyroid eye disease? [MUSIC PLAYING]
Graves' disease and Thyroid Eye Disease, or TED, are both autoimmune disorders that can sometimes be misunderstood as the same condition.
However, it is important to note that there are differences between the two. Graves' disease is an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid,
causing excessive release of the thyroid hormone, also known as hypothyroidism. It affects the thyroid, skin, and eyes.
Graves' disease can sometimes cause thyroid eye disease, which affects only the eyes and the eyelids.
Symptoms of Graves' disease may include unintended weight loss, muscle weakness, skin thickening or turning
red, heart palpitations, Graves' ophthalmopathy, or thyroid eye disease.
Symptoms of thyroid eye disease can include swelling of the eyelids, bulging of the eyes, chronic bloody eyes, excessively watery eyes.
Graves' disease can be caused by a variety of factors, including extreme emotional or physical stress, certain medications,
or a genetic predisposition. It is also four times as prevalent in females. As thyroid eye disease is a symptom of Graves' disease,
having Graves' puts you at risk for TED, but genetics plays a role as well. Various treatment options are available for both conditions,
ranging from medication to surgery. Both Graves' disease and thyroid eye disease
can also cause noticeable physical changes, which may lead to depression and changes in your emotional well-being.
As a result, psychotherapy could be included in your care. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your health care provider to learn more.
Together, you can develop a treatment plan that works for you.
