What is a common treatment for Graves' disease that involves radioactive substances?

In the context of Graves' disease, a common treatment that involves radioactive substances is the use of radioactive iodine, specifically Iodine-131. This treatment works by leveraging the thyroid gland's natural uptake of iodine to target and destroy overactive thyroid tissue, thereby reducing hormone production.

Patients with Graves' disease often have an overactive thyroid, leading to symptoms such as weight loss, anxiety, and hyperactivity. The radioactive iodine is administered either in capsule or liquid form and is designed to be absorbed by the thyroid gland. The radiation emitted from the I131 damages the cells in the thyroid tissue, helping to normalize hormone levels and alleviate symptoms.

This treatment is particularly advantageous because it is a non-invasive approach compared to surgical methods and does not require lifelong medication, unlike pharmacological treatments. While other options for Graves' disease do exist, they do not utilize radioactive substances for the purpose of controlling hyperthyroidism linked with this condition.