Cause 7: Smoking – Adding Fuel to the Fire
Smoking is a well-known health hazard, with its impacts reaching far and wide, affecting various body systems. One less discussed effect of smoking is its impact on thyroid health. Several studies have established a link between smoking and an increased risk of developing Graves’ disease.
The harmful substances in cigarette smoke, including nicotine and cyanide, can influence the immune system and endocrine function. In susceptible individuals, this may trigger an autoimmune response, causing the immune system to attack the thyroid gland and leading to Graves’ disease.
Not only does smoking increase the risk of developing Graves’ disease, but it can also exacerbate the severity of symptoms, particularly eye problems. Graves’ ophthalmopathy, characterized by bulging eyes, is more common and severe among smokers with Graves’ disease.
While quitting smoking may not eliminate the risk of developing Graves’ disease, it can significantly reduce it and alleviate symptom severity for those already diagnosed. Thus, smoking cessation is a crucial aspect of both prevention and management strategies for Graves’ disease. (7)
