Skip to main content
Go to homepage

Print Page

A to Z: Graves Disease

Graves disease is a chronic (ongoing) condition where the body's immune system causes the thyroid gland to make more thyroid hormones than it should. Doctors call this hyperthyroidism.

More to Know

Thyroid hormones help control many body functions. When the thyroid isn't working properly, it can affect a person's organs and body systems, as well as growth and sexual development.

People with Graves disease might lose weight even though they're eating more. Their eyes may be reddened or irritated, or look like they're staring or bulging out. They might feel hot or sweaty, have a fast heartbeat, and feel nervous. People who have the disease may feel weaker or more tired than usual and have trouble sleeping. Girls might not get their periods as they should. The thyroid gland may also become swollen, causing a lump in the front of the neck called a goiter.

Keep in Mind

People can take medicine to keep thyroid hormone levels in the blood normal. If the disease doesn't go away within a couple years on its own, doctors often suggest other treatments or surgery to shrink or remove the thyroid gland.

All A to Z dictionary entries are regularly reviewed by KidsHealth medical experts.

What next?

Summit Mall Play Area
Answer Key:
Click to expand
There are 10 nurses in the picture.

And we have many more pediatric primary care providers in Northeast Ohio. You can meet some of them here.
Summit Mall Play Area
Answer Key:
Click to expand
The five differences are:
– Phone color
– Coat pocket
– Stethoscope earpiece color
– Stethoscope bell dot
– Clipboard paper color

Need help finding a doctor, choosing a location or getting a general question about Akron Children's answered? Call us or fill out the form and we'll help in any way we can.
Summit Mall Play Area
Answer Key:
Click to expand
The two matching doctors are 9 and 14.

With virtual visits, you can see our pediatric experts from the comfort of home or wherever you are.
Summit Mall Play Area
Answer Key:
Click to expand
The correct path:
The Correct Path
We offer many ways to get pediatric care all over Northeast Ohio. Use this page to find the right kind of care and the most convenient location for you.