How to test for Graves' Disease

How it Works

What is Graves' Disease?

Graves' disease is a type of autoimmune disorder that causes the overproduction of thyroid hormones.  The immune system produces thyrotropin receptor antibody which overrides the normal functioning of the thyroid gland causing it to produce higher-than-normal hormone levels.  These hormones can affect the body in a number of ways.  While there are many conditions that can cause hyperthyroidism, Graves is one of the most common.  Graves' disease can affect anyone but is found most often in women and people under the age of 40.

What are the symptoms of Graves' Disease?

Graves' disease can cause a variety of symptoms and not everyone will be affected the same way.  Some of the most common symptoms of Graves' Disease include anxiety, irritability, shaking hands, increased sensitivity to heat, unexplained weight loss, swelling in the thyroid gland, irregular menstrual cycles, loss of sex drive, fatigue, rapid heartbeat, and difficulty sleeping.  Rarely, some people will experience reddening or thickening of the skin on the legs and feet.

What is Hyperthyroidism Eye Disease?

About a third of people with Graves's disease will develop ophthalmopathy. The same antibodies that overstimulate the thyroid gland can be attracted to the muscle tissues around the eyes causing inflammation.  Graves' eye disease can cause symptoms that include bulging eyes, a gritty feeling in the eyes, pain or pressure in the eyes, redness, light sensitivity, double vision, puffy eyelids, and loss of vision.

How does Graves' Disease affect TSH, T3, and T4 levels?

Normally, the pituitary gland produces Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) which in turn stimulates the thyroid gland to produce hormones including T3 and T4.  In Graves' Disease, TSH levels are typically lower than normal since the thyroid is already overactive.  The hyperthyroidism caused by Graves' disease usually results in T3 and T4 levels that are higher than normal.

How do you test for Graves' Disease?

Blood testing for thyroid hormones is a common first step when someone has symptoms of Graves' Disease.  Testing usually includes a combination of levels for TSH, T3, T4, Free T3, and Free T4  In some cases, it is also helpful to test for Thyrotropin Receptor Antibodies (TRAb).  The presence or lack of these antibodies can help to distinguish Graves' Disease from other conditions.  Testing for another type of antibody, Thyroid Stimulating Immunoglobulin (TSI), is often ordered along with  TRAb.  Additional testing as recommended by your doctor may be necessary to make a final diagnosis.

Where can I get a test for Graves' Hyperthyroidism near me?

When your health is at risk, you want answers fast.  Request A Test makes it easy to get those answers.  There's no need to schedule a doctor's appointment or get approval from an insurance provider.  Just order the test you need and go to one of thousands of labs across the USA.  We offer thyroid testing that can help to identify Graves' Disease along with hundreds of other options.  Don't wait to take charge of your health.  Order online today or call our team at 888-732-2348 for assistance.

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