Question 1

What is Graves' disease?

Accepted Answer

Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes the thyroid gland to produce excessive thyroid hormones, leading to hyperthyroidism. It is caused by autoimmune antibodies that mistakenly stimulate thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) receptors, triggering uncontrolled thyroid hormone production. The Thyroxine Free (FT4) Immunoassay is the most important test for diagnosing Graves' disease because it measures the active thyroid hormone levels that are characteristically elevated in this condition.

Question 2

What causes Graves' disease?

Accepted Answer

Graves' disease is caused by an autoimmune response where the body produces antibodies called thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins (TSI) that attack the thyroid gland. These antibodies bind to TSH receptors on thyroid cells and mimic the action of thyroid-stimulating hormone, causing the thyroid to produce excessive amounts of thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). This overproduction of thyroid hormones leads to hyperthyroidism, which speeds up your metabolism and causes symptoms throughout your body.

Question 3

What is the best test for Graves' disease?

Accepted Answer

The Thyroxine Free (FT4) Immunoassay is the most important test for Graves' disease because it directly measures the active, unbound form of thyroid hormone circulating in your blood. When you have Graves' disease, the autoimmune antibodies stimulate your thyroid to overproduce hormones, resulting in significantly elevated free T4 levels. The Thyroxine (T4) Total test is also essential because it measures both bound and free forms of T4, providing a comprehensive view of your thyroid hormone production. In complex cases, the HLA DRB1,DQB1 Low Resolution genetic test can identify specific genetic markers associated with increased susceptibility to developing this autoimmune condition.

Question 4

When should I get tested for Graves' disease?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience symptoms of hyperthyroidism such as unexplained weight loss despite increased appetite, rapid or irregular heartbeat, trembling hands, increased sweating, anxiety or irritability, or bulging eyes (Graves' ophthalmopathy). Testing is especially important if you have a family history of thyroid disease or other autoimmune conditions, as genetic factors increase your risk. If you notice a visible swelling in your neck (goiter) or feel constantly fatigued despite feeling jittery and restless, these are strong indicators that you need thyroid testing right away.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of Graves' disease?

Accepted Answer

Graves' disease causes a wide range of symptoms due to excess thyroid hormones speeding up your metabolism. Common symptoms include unintentional weight loss, rapid heartbeat or heart palpitations, increased sweating and heat intolerance, tremors in your hands and fingers, nervousness, anxiety, and irritability. You might also experience fatigue, muscle weakness, difficulty sleeping, more frequent bowel movements, and changes in your menstrual cycle. Many people with Graves' disease develop a goiter (enlarged thyroid visible as neck swelling) and about 30% develop Graves' ophthalmopathy, which causes bulging eyes, eye irritation, and vision problems.

Question 6

Who is at risk for Graves' disease?

Accepted Answer

Women are at significantly higher risk than men, with Graves' disease being about 7-8 times more common in women, particularly between ages 30 and 50. People with a family history of Graves' disease or other autoimmune disorders like type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or lupus have increased risk. Other risk factors include having other autoimmune conditions yourself, smoking cigarettes (which significantly increases risk and worsens eye symptoms), recent pregnancy or childbirth, and high levels of emotional or physical stress. Certain genetic markers, particularly specific HLA-DQB1 alleles, are also associated with greater susceptibility to developing this autoimmune thyroid condition.

Question 7

What happens if Graves' disease is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated Graves' disease can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening complications. The most dangerous is thyroid storm, a sudden, severe worsening of symptoms that causes extremely high fever, rapid heart rate, and can lead to heart failure, stroke, or death. Chronic untreated hyperthyroidism weakens your bones, increasing osteoporosis risk and fracture susceptibility. Heart problems are common, including atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat), increased risk of blood clots and stroke, and congestive heart failure. Graves' ophthalmopathy can progressively worsen, potentially causing permanent vision loss. The constant metabolic stress also affects fertility, pregnancy outcomes, and overall quality of life through persistent anxiety, insomnia, and muscle weakness.

Question 8

Can Graves' disease be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, blood tests are the primary method for diagnosing Graves' disease and are highly effective at identifying this condition. The Thyroxine Free (FT4) test and Thyroxine (T4) Total test measure thyroid hormone levels, which are characteristically elevated in Graves' disease. Doctors typically also order a TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) test, which will be abnormally low or suppressed when you have Graves' disease because excess thyroid hormones signal your pituitary gland to stop producing TSH. A thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI) or TSH receptor antibody test can confirm the autoimmune nature of the condition. These blood tests together provide a clear diagnostic picture and help distinguish Graves' disease from other causes of hyperthyroidism.

Question 9

How is Graves' disease treated?

Accepted Answer

Graves' disease treatment focuses on reducing thyroid hormone production and managing symptoms. Anti-thyroid medications like methimazole or propylthiouracil block your thyroid from producing hormones and are often the first treatment option. Radioactive iodine therapy destroys overactive thyroid cells and is a common definitive treatment, though it usually results in hypothyroidism requiring lifelong thyroid hormone replacement. Surgical removal of the thyroid (thyroidectomy) may be recommended in certain cases, particularly if you have a very large goiter or cannot tolerate other treatments. Beta-blockers are often prescribed to manage symptoms like rapid heartbeat, tremors, and anxiety while other treatments take effect. Treatment choice depends on your age, severity of symptoms, other health conditions, and personal preferences.

Question 10

How can I prevent Graves' disease?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, there is no proven way to prevent Graves' disease since it is an autoimmune condition with genetic and environmental triggers that are not fully understood. However, you can reduce your risk of triggering or worsening the condition by avoiding smoking, as tobacco use significantly increases both the risk of developing Graves' disease and the severity of Graves' ophthalmopathy. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, regular exercise, and adequate sleep may help, as high stress levels are associated with autoimmune disease flares. If you have a family history of thyroid disease, regular thyroid screening can help catch problems early before they become severe. Maintaining adequate iodine intake without excess supplementation also supports healthy thyroid function.

Question 11

What can I do at home for Graves' disease?

Accepted Answer

While home remedies cannot cure Graves' disease, several lifestyle modifications can help manage symptoms and support your treatment. Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to protect bone health, as hyperthyroidism increases bone loss risk. Avoid excessive caffeine and stimulants that can worsen anxiety, tremors, and heart palpitations. Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises, as stress can trigger symptom flares. Get regular, moderate exercise to maintain muscle strength and bone density, but avoid overexertion if you feel fatigued. Apply cool compresses to your eyes and use artificial tears if you have eye irritation from Graves' ophthalmopathy. Quit smoking immediately, as it dramatically worsens eye symptoms and disease progression.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Graves' Disease Blood Test

What is Graves' disease?

What causes Graves' disease?

What is the best test for Graves' disease?

When should I get tested for Graves' disease?

References

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