While thyroid disorders seem to be increasingly common, it is estimated that only one percent of Americans suffer with symptoms of Graves’ Disease. While not a common thyroid disorder, it is the most common form of hyperthyroidism in the world.
Hair loss? Feeling nervous and irritable? Slight tremor of your hands or fingers? Not sleeping well? Losing weight even though you try to eat more? Sensitive to heat? It could be Graves’ Disease.
It’s important to recognize the symptoms of Graves’ Disease because, left untreated, it can lead to complications like arrhythmia, stroke or heart failure. Over time, it can also increase the risk of osteoporosis and broken bones. Fortunately, Graves’ Disease can be successfully treated and managed so that serious complications like these can be avoided.
At the Wellness and Aesthetics Medical Center in San Antonio, TX, we offer the most up-to-date evaluation and treatment methods to effectively and safely address Graves’ Disease so you can feel and perform normally again. If you are ready to see what our Graves’ Disease Treatment regimen can do for you, call and speak with one of our specialists at (210) 985-1700 or contact us online today!
Your thyroid produces hormones that play a role in every single aspect of how your body functions, from your metabolism and sexual performance to your energy levels, physical and mental health and overall hormonal function. It is a small gland located just under your Adam’s apple – about the size and shape of a tiny butterfly – but this gland has a tremendous impact on your health.
Unlike the other hormones in your body, receptors for thyroid hormones are found in all cells, regulating the function of every system and organ in the human body. When your thyroid gland produces too much or too little of these essential hormones, you are considered to have thyroid disease. Thyroid conditions can range from milder forms of thyroiditis to end-stage thyroid cancer. Thyroiditis is the general term for inflammation of the thyroid gland.
Thyroid conditions can be caused by various factors – ranging from autoimmune disease to trauma, infections or iodine deficiency, leading to either hypothyroidism (under function with too little thyroid hormone) and hyperthyroidism (over function with too much thyroid hormone). There are occasions where your thyroid can suffer from a hyperthyroidism state then later hypothyroidism.
The majority of thyroid patients experience hypothyroidism — too little hormone production — while a small percentage suffer from hyperthyroidism, or too much. Hashimoto’s Disease is the most common form of hypothyroidism, while Graves’ Disease is the most common form of hyperthyroidism.
Graves' Disease is an autoimmune disease in which your immune system attacks your thyroid gland, leading to excess hormone production, or hyperthyroidism. It produces symptoms like insomnia, nervousness, tremors and increased heart rate or palpitations, along with other more serious complications when left untreated.
Thyroid eye disease (TED), known for its most recognizable symptom of “bulging eyes,” is a complication of Graves’ Disease that sometimes develops and is seen in roughly 25 percent of Graves’ Disease sufferers.
One of the greatest risks with Graves’ Disease is the potential for what is called “Thyroid Storm.” This occurs when your thyroid releases an excessive amount thyroid hormone in a short period of time. It is a rare complication but one that is life-threatening when it occurs.
Although it is a lifelong condition and there is no cure for Graves’ Disease, treatments are available to help manage the condition.
The precise cause of Graves’ Disease is not completely understood. Although anyone can develop Graves’ Disease, certain risk factors increase its incidence:
Though it can develop suddenly, Graves’ Disease usually develops gradually and may cause no symptoms at all early on. Goiter, the enlargement of the thyroid gland, is one of the visible symptoms that can develop. It can cause discomfort, as well as difficulty swallowing or even breathing. As more symptoms develop, they will vary among individuals but typically include:
As noted above, Graves’ Disease can lead to eye issues, known as Graves’ orbitopathy or thyroid eye disease with symptoms that may include:
Only about one percent of people with Graves’ Disease develop thyroid acropachy, which causes clubbing of your fingers and toes.
Graves’ Disease is generally diagnosed through blood tests to measure thyroid function and detect antibodies. A physical exam is needed to check for goiter (enlarged thyroid). Taking a full medical history is essential. Key testing checks for:
Thyroid antibody blood tests check for the antibodies linked with Graves’ disease.
We also may conduct testing to rule other medical conditions that present with similar symptoms. We recommend that you compile a list of symptoms prior to your first consultation.
Once we have determined that an autoimmune response is at play and the diagnosis is in fact Graves’ Disease, this will guide our treatment approach. What is most important is to investigate and understand the underlying cause of your hyperthyroid condition. That root cause must be addressed and repaired – whether that involves treating autoimmune diseases like Graves’ Disease or other factors that may have triggered hyperthyroidism in general or Graves’ Disease in particular.
Whether triggered by excess iodine, exposure to toxic metals or bacterial or viral infections like Epstein-Barr virus, we treat the underlying cause.
In additional to expertise in conventional treatment methods, we offer a functional and integrative medicine approach that may include addressing gut dysbiosis, instituting supplements that naturally suppress thyroid hormone production, and overall hormone balancing with bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT).
Nutritional and lifestyle changes are generally incorporated too, alongside stress management and other approaches. We offer the full range of treatment methods available for Graves’ Disease, incorporating first the most natural, effective methods that offer the fewest side effects.
There are many factors contributing to your thyroid health and any symptoms you may have developed. Your experience of thyroid disease is unique, so our approach to addressing your thyroid condition will be comprehensive and thorough – and always individualized.
With a personalized treatment plan, your physical and mental condition could be profoundly improved, providing:
At The Wellness & Aesthetics Medical Center, we recognize that each individual requires a treatment regimen customized specifically in line with the overall health profile and specific symptoms the patient is encountering.
Dr. Williams is a highly trained functional medicine physician who specializes in innovative approaches for optimal health and wellness, including regenerative medicine, aesthetics, sexual health and longevity medicine.
Dr. Williams has a bachelor’s degree in biology from Harvard University and received his medical degree from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. He serves as a Member of the Anti-Aging Group (AAG) Advisory Board. He also completed Physician Training and Certification in Age Management Medicine, jointly sponsored by The Cenegenics Education and Research Foundation (CERF) and the Foundation for Care Management (FCM).
Dr. Williams has extensive training in Lasers and Medical Spa procedures, and he is a Fellow of the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery (ASLMS). He is a Diplomat & Fellow, Board Certified, and an Oral Board Examiner of the American Academy of Anti-Aging, Regenerative & Functional Medicine (A4M), as well as an A4M Fellow of:
Dr. Williams is the author of the international bestseller “Grow Younger like Me: Be 29 Again and Again” and his new book, “Longevity Medicine: Secrets to Growing Younger.”
As well as his exceptional training and expertise, Dr. Williams brings over 30 years of experience and a record of successful patient outcomes. Learn more about his training and expertise in treating thyroid disease and other complex medical conditions.
If you have been searching for the most trusted functional medicine doctor in the San Antonio area, you don’t need to search any further. Everything you need is right here at The Wellness & Aesthetics Medical Center in the Stone Oak neighborhood, located in the Hollywood Park enclave of North San Antonio – and our track record with satisfied local patients speaks for itself.
Compile your symptoms checklist and call The Wellness & Aesthetics Medical Center at (210) 985-1700 or complete the form below.
Depending on the exact treatment used, Graves’ Disease treatment results vary from patient to patient. Initial improvement in some symptoms could begin after the first several days but it may take weeks or even months to see full results. Best results are usually seen in the first three months.
We only incorporate treatment methods that are considered safe and effective with a proven track record.
Left untreated, Graves’ Disease can impact your overall health and even lead to serious conditions like goiter, heart arrythmia, stroke or heart failure. That’s why regular screening with a physician experienced in treating both autoimmune and thyroid conditions is essential.
Dr. Williams and his Angels—Vanity, Rhonda, and Larissa—are nothing short of miracle workers. Their expertise is simply unmatched, blending the most advanced techniques with an artistic touch that creates a perfect harmony between science and beauty.
Lisa
Dr. Williams is truly a master at his craft. He takes a personalized & multi-pronged approach to total transformation. I can honestly say Dr. Williams has done wonders for my wife and I.
Ryan
I had a great time at The Wellness and Aesthetics Medical Center and Spa. The entire staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. They provide excellent customer service. I am very thankful for the excellent care Dr. Williams provides and the unique gift he is to all his patients.
Blanca
The Wellness & Aesthetics Medical Center
540 Oak Centre Dr, Suite 114
San Antonio, TX 78258
Phone:
(210) 985-1700
