Symptoms

Common signs and symptoms of Graves' disease include:

• Anxiety and irritability
• A fine tremor of the hands or fingers
• Heat sensitivity and an increase in perspiration or warm, moist skin
• Weight loss, despite normal eating habits
• Enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter)
• Change in menstrual cycles
• Erectile dysfunction or reduced libido
• Frequent bowel movements
• Bulging eyes (Graves' ophthalmopathy)
• Fatigue
• Thick, red skin usually on the shins or tops of the feet (Graves' dermopathy)
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
• Sleep disturbance

Graves' ophthalmopathy

About 30% of people with Graves' disease show some signs and symptoms of Graves' ophthalmopathy. In Graves' ophthalmopathy, inflammation and other immune system events affect muscles and other tissues around your eyes. Signs and symptoms may include:

• Bulging eyes
• Gritty sensation in the eyes
• Pressure or pain in the eyes
• Puffy or retracted eyelids
• Reddened or inflamed eyes
• Light sensitivity
• Double vision
• Vision loss

Graves' dermopathy

An uncommon manifestation of Graves' disease, called Graves' dermopathy, is the reddening and thickening of the skin, most often on your shins or the tops of your feet.

When to see a doctor

A number of medical conditions can cause the signs and symptoms associated with Graves' disease. See your doctor if you experience any potential problems related to Graves' disease to get a prompt and accurate diagnosis.

Seek emergency care if you're experiencing heart-related signs and symptoms, such as a rapid or irregular heartbeat, or if you develop vision loss.