what is the difference??

[jen699]

what is the difference between Graves Disease and Hyper thyroid? I have been diagnosed with Graves Disease, I am scheduled for surgery but wonder if the leave half or part of the smallest side of the my gland, will that cure it, or will I be at risk of having to get yet another surgery?

[hotgranny]

I was diagnosed with Graves Disease in 2001. I had radiation Iodine and later surgery. My life has been a living hell since. I have tried every thyroid replacement DRUG on the market and all different amounts. I am now on oxygen, I lost my job as chief mammographer of a very busy hospital. I lost my home and most of all ,my health. I can't move without pain, my memory is gone and my eyes are swollen and disfigured, I feel like my body is on fire, I have tremors and can't sleep. My point is before you have that ablation, I would make sure that you're body can tolerate the side-effects of thyroid meds.

[cbread]

Graves and Thyroid eye disease are connected but separate diseases. The best thing to help TED is to stay euthyroid (fancy name for normal hormone range) Your eyes can get worse even after you have corrected the thyroid issues- but most time stabilizes with treatment.  

[jen699]

what about the damage it does to your eyes? Will the damage continue?

[Dogdancing]

Graves disease is currently incurable. You will still have it after the surgery.

Graves attacks the thyroid and makes it over function. Since they cant get rid of the Graves they get rid of its target (the thyroid).

peace be the journey

Paja - Graves, RAI 6-5-08