Uncommon Symptoms 

In some rare cases, Graves' disease results in Graves' dermopathy, which causes skin to become thick and reddened. This most commonly occurs on the tops of feet or shins but can be present on the shoulders, upper back, hands and arms. Although Graves' dermopathy shows up in less than 5 percent of Graves' cases, it is interesting to highlight that up to 15 percent of Graves' opthalmopathy patients are diagnosed with Graves' dermopathy. This symptom usually happens later in the disease's progression and doesn't show until several other signs have become present. 

A Young Women's Disease? 

We can't predict who will get Graves', but the research has shown that age, sex and genetics play a role. Graves' disease is present in women nearly 10 times more than men. Also, it generally shows itself before the age of 40. Most of the time, women are affected between the ages of 30 and 60, and the risk generally increases if there is any genetic history of the disease in the family. 

Doubling Up Your Risk 

Those who already have autoimmune diseases are more at risk for Graves' disease. Other ailments associated with Graves' disease include rheumatoid arthritis, vitiligo -- a pigmentation disorder -- and Type 1 diabetes.