Graves’ Disease
Graves ophthalmopathy is the name given to bulging eyes caused by Graves disease, which is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. Protrusion occurs when the muscles and tissues around the eyes swell. Eye problems can sometimes resolve without treatment. However, they may be an indication of Graves’ Disease. The most common symptoms are protruding eyes and redness, swelling, or discomfort in the eye or eyes. Other symptoms include blurred or double vision and reduced eye movement. Graves’ Disease is an autoimmune disease, meaning that the immune system attacks itself. The immune system attacks the thyroid in this disease, causing the thyroid to produce too many hormones. Graves’ Disease can affect fertility, menstrual cycles, muscles, bones and heart health if left untreated.
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