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Graves Disease is an autoimmune disease where the thyroid is overactive, producing an excessive amount of thyroid hormones ( a serious metabolic imbalance known as hyperthyroidism and thyrotoxicosis)

Since being diagnosed with Graves Disease in Aug 2011 it has become starkingly apparent to me that there is limited knowledge and understanding of this and other thyroid conditions

Graves' disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism (60-90% of all cases), and usually presents itself during early adolescence and although the symptoms of Graves Disease can be treated the cause of this condition as yet has no known cure 

The disease typically begins gradually, and is progressive unless treated. If left untreated, more serious complications could result, including bone loss and fractures, inanition, birth defects in pregnancy, and increased risk of a miscarriage. Graves disease is often accompanied by an increase in heart rate, which may lead to cardiovascular damage and further heart complications including loss of the normal heart rhythm (atrial fibrillation), which may lead to stroke

It is my aim to raise funds to aid in research and education of Thyroid Conditions (One study puts the average time for diagnosis at 2.9 years, having observed a range from 3 months to 20 years in their sample population)

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