First described by Sir Robert Graves in the early 19th century, Graves' disease is one of the most common of all thyroid problems. It is also the leading cause of hyperthyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland produces excessive hormones. Once the disorder has been correctly diagnosed, it is quite easy to treat. In some cases, Graves' disease goes into remission or disappears completely after several months or years. Left untreated, however, it can lead to serious complications -- even death. Although the symptoms can cause discomfort, Graves' disease generally has no long-term adverse health consequences if the patient receives prompt and proper medical care.

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Is it possible to have Graves Disease and not know it? It's symptoms seem to co-incide with FMS BiPolar...no???

Unfortunatly there is not alot of information out there about it. I researched it on the internet (A LOT) when I sick, but know little more then I did before.

I've had my thyroid and parathyroid glands removed, and I feel better, but it was a long road for me, I tried the radiation therapy first to no avail. What is left is permenant damage to my eyesight, and some problems with my legs from time to time. They can cure hyperthyroidism, the result of graves', but they cannot cure the graves' it's self. There can be complications in the future.

I am still bipolar, but medicated so that my moods stay mostly stable, and I'm doing fine. I didn't go to the doctor for a while because I assumed that my crazy moods were from the bipolar, so I was dx'd with the graves' late. If you have any question in your mind about it, go and get your thyroid hormone levels checked...early dx is key with graves'!!

Hope this helps, and sorry for going on so long-countrymouse

Post edited by: countrymouse, at: 09/10/2008 15:47

All though I don't have Grave's disease or Biplor disorder my fiance' does and we live together. I see the struggles he goes through on a daily basis and I wish that I could make it all go away for him so he could have a normal life. People don't realize what a struggle it is for not only him suffering but also for me for trying to be supportive but not fully underdstanding the frustrations he goes through from suffering from these diseases. It takes an incredibly strong person to be able to deal with what you are dealing with and I commend you on it! I am here for you to vent (or any one else on here)to talk about your good days, and your bad, and I want you to know that you have my support!!

I know just what you mean about the complications in the future. I always was under the impression that once my thyroid was ablated that I was cured(WRONG).

More than 4 years or so later I am still having complications from the Graves disease.

Valarie