Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes overactivity of the thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism). Graves’ disease causes an increase in the body’s metabolic rate which leads to disturbances in mood, energy level, and weight. The disease often causes the eyeballs to protrude more that usual (known as exophthalmos) and it is sometimes associated with goiter, an enlargement of the thyroid gland that makes the throat appear swollen. Graves’ disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism in the world.

Overall, Graves’ disease is relatively uncommon, affecting less than one-quarter of one percent of the U.S. population. However, the disease is four to eight times more common in women than in men.