Question

Graves Disease causes, diagnostic test treatment complications nursing implications

Answer 1

#. Graves disease is an autoimmune disease that causes the enlargement of the thyroid gland so there is extra secretion of T3 and T4 hormones that affect the rate of metabolism. Graves disease accounts for up to 80% of hyperthyroidism cases.

#. Three potential risk factors

Woman are 5 times more likely to develop graves disease than men.

Insufficient iodine supply

Infection

Stressful life events may interact with genetic factors

Smoking

#. Some possible causes

The exact cause of graves disease is unknown however it is thought to be the result of a malfunction in the bodies disease fighting immune system.

Possibly caused by emotional stress and smoking.

#. 5 signs and symptoms

Signs and symptoms are related to the effect of excess circulating thyroid hormone

Bounding, rapid pulse (Tacycardia)

Systolic hypertension

Bulging eyes (Exophthalmos)

Weight loss

Thin brittle nails and hair

#. Two Diagnostic tests

Blood test Ophthalmological examination

Describe blood test

Blood test evaluating TSH, T3 and T4 levels - excess T3 and T4 and low TSH levels are an indicator of hyperthyroidism/graves disease.

Describe Ophthalmological examination

Examination of the eyes to check for bulging and causes for this (see pathophys question for more info on this)

#. Complications associated with graves disease are :-

- exophthalmos

- heart disease

- thyroid storm

- thyrotoxicosis

#. Treatment :-

- anti thyroid medication

- radioactive iodine

- surgery

#. Nursing implications :-

- improving nutritional status

- enhancing coping measures

- improving self esteem

- maintaining normal body temperature

- monitoring and managing potential complications