Graves' ophthalmopathy is a bit of an oxymoron in terms of when symptoms occur. Though it might occur simultaneously with hyperthyroidism, it also can occur at a later time. The symptoms of this condition might even be seen years before or after hyperthyroidism occurs. And at times, it can occur without hyperthyroidism at all.
Graves’ disease can also lead to a number of complications. The first involves pregnancy. This can result in miscarriages, heart failure in the mother, preeclampsia (high blood pressure) and early birth. It also can affect the growth of the fetus and lead to fetal thyroid dysfunction.
Further, untreated Graves’ disease can cause a number of heart problems. The Mayo Clinic says that some of these heart conditions can include heart rhythm disorders, issues with the heart muscles and congestive heart failure.
Untreated Graves’ disease can cause osteoporosis. This is because an excess amount of thyroid hormone affects calcium absorption. Calcium is needed for healthy bones.
And rarely, untreated Graves’ disease can cause a thyroid storm (also called accelerated hyperthyroidism and thyrotoxic crisis). A thyroid storm occurs when thyroid hormones rapidly increase. Symptoms include fever and sweating, weakness, rapid heartbeat, vomiting and diarrhea, jaundice, seizures, low blood pressure, delirium, and coma. In this case, it’s essential to get medical help immediately.
To diagnose Graves’ disease, a doctor will take a blood sample. He or she will then have the blood tested to check thyroid levels and the pituitary hormone. If THS levels are low, and thyroid hormones are high, this is an indicator of Graves’ disease. The doctor may check the levels of the antibody associated with Graves’ disease. If this test is negative, the doctor may rule out Graves’ disease as the cause of hyperthyroidism altogether.