THYROID DISEASE » thyroid disease

thyroid disease

admin — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Read and learn more about thyroid disease. For more, visit the Thyroid Disease website ThyroidDiseaseWiki.com.

Q: thyroid disease?
about a year ago i was diagnosed with graves disease, which is a thyroid disease, and i was treated for it about 6 months ago by having my thyroid killed off with a radioactive iodine pill, and now i’ve been taking thyroid hormone replacement medication for about 6 months now. i was wondering what kind of effect thyroid diseases have on your weight. in about 2 years, i’ve gained 20 lbs (my lifestyle and diet have changed slightly, but not much), and i’ve been dieting and exersicing for 5 months now, but have only managed to lose 10 lbs. i lost that 10 lbs in the first 3 months, and since then, i havent lost any weight. i was wondering if this was due in part to my thyroid disease. please let me know what you think!!! i need some advice about trying to loose weight while still having a thyroid (metabolism) disease.
sorry inspiredbeme, but i have been dieting and exersizing for 4 months now, and i have only lost 3 lbs. i was 118 two years ago, and now i’m 140. i have been changing my diet and i exersize 1 hour a day, and i still havent seen any results. i just want to know if it’s because of my thyroid that i’m having such a hard time. and you’re only 118! what do you have to worry about?!
*oops, sorry, 113!

A: Technically, you don’t have a thyroid disease as you don’t have a thyroid anymore. I have had Graves for over seven years and am now in remission. I lost 40 lbs when it started before I went to see a MD; I learned my lesson. It is now a matter of regulating your hormone medication to regulate your weight and not a Walmart pill. I am surprised that your MD decided to destroy your thyroid instead of trying Tapazole to get it under control. You are going to gain weight as you are in a permanent “hypo” state.

Q: Thyroid Disease?
I have a thyroid disease that boosts my metabolism and makes me gain weight quickly, is there any way that I can stop it without taking pills(not enough money)?
Sorry, accident. I meant that it lowers my metabolism.

A: Hello,

There are thyroid diseases that boost metabolism and thyroid diseases that cause weight gain, unfortunately they’re not one and the same. Hyperthyroidism causes increase in metabolism which is accompanied by a voracious appetite, and weight loss. It also has heat intolerance, possible hair loss, increase heart rate and blood pressure, etc.

Hypothyroidism is the exact opposite. If it’s making you gain weight then this is probably what you have. There are various causes for hypothyroidism and so that needs to be investigated by a doc. Most of the time Levothyroxine is used to supplement what you’re body is missing. There is no reliable way of replacing this hormone by any other means.

If cost is a concern there are probably assistance programs you can get on to help cover the costs of your prescriptions. However, Levothyroxine (Synthroid), has been out long enough that you should probably be able to get generics which are relatively cheap.

www.rxlist.com has great info on various drugs, how they work, dosages, side effects, etc.

Check out Walmart’s pharmacy listing for $4 generics. My computer is fritzy and won’t load the PDF but this is the link:
http://www.livebetterindex.com/4drug.pdf See if Levothyroxine is on that list. If so- cost shouldn’t be much of an issue.

I hope this helps. Good luck!

Q: Thyroid disease?
What is thyroid disease and how do i know if i have got it?

A: There are several kinds of thyroid disease. Sometimes it is underactive (hypothyroidism) and sometimes it is overactive (hyperthyroidism). A goiter and Graves Disease are other examples. The thyroid hormones have a lot to do with our metabolism, and if you think you may have a problem, a simple blood test to check your thyroid hormone levels will tell your doctor. The symptoms vary from person to person, some don’t have any, but treating it is essential.

Q: What is thyroid disease in childen around one year to two years old?
This one year old’s soft spot has not healed over and he has some dry skin problems and a small loss of weight. This is some signs of thyroid disease. Hopefully it will turn out to be just a coincidence.

A: I would assume this child has been tested for thyroid disease. In the US, mandatory thyroid testing of infants has taken place since 1976. If this child has not been tested, then get him to a doctor as soon as possible. He may have congenital hypothyroidism. Even if he had been tested, it may be a good idea to test again. Hypothyroidism in a child can be devastating.

Congenital hypothyroidism is a disorder that affects infants at birth, and occurs in about 1 in 4000 live-born babies. It is characterised by the loss of thyroid function, due to the thyroid gland failing to develop normally. In some cases, the gland is totally absent. About 10 per cent of cases are caused by an enzyme defect leading to deficient hormone production, iodine deficiency and a brain pituitary gland abnormality. If the diagnosis is delayed, and immediate treatment is not given, congenital hypothyroidism can lead to growth and developmental defects, and severe mental retardation (cretinism).

Fortunately, routine testing for thyroid function in newborns has been mandatory since 1976. Within the first week of life, a heelprick blood sample is taken to assess an infant’s thyroid hormone level. If any abnormality is found, a repeat blood sample is taken. If this confirms congenital hypothyroidism, the infant is immediately given thyroid hormone replacement therapy (T4 — thyroxine). Normal growth and development should then continue, with no adverse effects on the child’s mental capacity.

Before newborn thyroid screening began, this condition was easily missed. Even within a few days, subtle symptoms would emerge, such as poor feeding, constipation, low body temperature, cool skin, slow pulse, prolonged jaundice, increased sleepiness, and decreased crying. After a few weeks, other physical signs would become more noticeable, such as poor growth and development, dry skin and hair, poor muscle tone, slow tendon reflexes, hoarse crying, enlarged tongue, umbilical hernia, and puffiness or swelling. By this time, there would already have been some devastating consequences. Treatment with thyroid hormone replacement would have resolved most of the physical symptoms, but the child would more than likely have had permanent brain damage.

Q: What is the difference in hypothyroidism and thyroid disease?
I have hypothyroidism and want to take some sinus medication. It says don’t take if you have thyroid disease.

A: It sounds like hypothyroidism is classified as thyroid disease. I wouldn’t take that medicine!

Q: Why is thyroid disease called the butterfly effect?
I have hypothyroidism, and i was wondering why thyroid disease is called the butterfly effect?

A: It actually has a double meaning. The thyroid gland is shaped like a “butterfly”, but also regulates so many other parts of the body that it can cause a “ripple” effect if not functioning properly.

The “butterfly effect”, or “chaos theory” states that, essentially, a butterfly flapping its wings on the other side of the world can cause a breeze that eventually will result in a tornado over here.

Basically something seemingly insignificant can have major consequences to something else that appears unrelated. So a diseased thyroid can result in hair loss, for instance, although hair seems unrleated to the thyroid.

Q: Why does allergy medicine say consult a doctor before use if you have thyroid disease?
I’ve been looking at allergy medications and most of them say consult a doctor before use if you have thyroid disease. I left a message with my doctor, but what would be the side-effects of someone taking allergy medicine if they had thyroid disease?

A: The otc medications can affect your heart rate, blood pressure, etc things that are already being controlled by another medication. My doctor told me DO NOT take it, but I also had thyroid cancer. They did however prescribe me Singular. If you are having serious issues with your allergies i suggest you also speak to your doctor about an allergy prescription

Q: Why does it say to consult a doctor if you have thyroid disease?
On a lot of antihistamine and sinus medications it says to consult your doctor if you have thyroid disease. What is the reason for this? I have hypothyroid and a bad cold so I need to take something so I can sleep. I know this is a question I should ask my doctor (and I intend to when I see her on Monday) but is it dangerous for me to take sinus medication?

A: I have hypothyroidism also. If you’re on medication, certain meds can counter-act with the meds your on. Call a pharmacist and ask them. Tell them what you’re on and tell them the med you want to take and they’ll tell you if its safe or not. Im on synthroid and have never had a problem with being able to take any sinus meds. To ease your mind and make sure, just call the pharmacy, they will gladly help you with anything you need to know! Good luck! Hope ya feel better soon!

Q: How do I get my horse to gain weight if he has a thyroid disease?
My horse has a thyroid disease. It is the kind that makes him loose. If if were to up his food, not by much, but still up it, would it hurt his thyroid problem. He is on Strategy right now and I dont know if I should add a weight gain supplement or not.

A: That’s hypothyroidism. You should call your vet and ask what you should do because the endocrine system is a delicate thing to mess with and the thyroid gland is a very large part of it.

Q: What can I expect if I have thyroid disease?
My doc said that my TSH level is low, so I need to get more comprehensive test for thyroid disease. Will I always need to take meds?

If my tests come back negative, what can I do to make sure I don’t get it?

A: I know women who personally like the natural thyroid hormone Armour Thyroid. http://www.armourthyroid.com/

It’s better than the synthetic thyroid drugs like synthroid. Also taking 1 tablespoon of raw virgin organic coconut oil with each meal will rev up your metabolism. And stay away from all Soy. Soy depresses the thyroid. Take a good mulivitamin. I like Dr. Ron Schmidt’s. His does not have any additives. http://www.drrons.com/

Salt your food only with Celtic Sea salt. It is unprocessed and has 84 minerals all good for your thyroid.

Dr. Rinds sight explains thyroid and adrenal problems. Check it out. Good luck to you.

http://www.drrind.com/

Q: Why is it advised to ask a doctor about taking Dayquil if you have a Thyroid Disease?
I have Graves’ Disease and am in remission right now. My thyroid is functioning normally. I have taken two doses of Vick’s DayQuil and just read on the back to ask a doctor before taking this product if you have a Thyroid Disease. Does anybody know why this is?

A: it is not recommended that people with thyroid problems take any products with pseudoephedrine or natural ephedra, ingredients that are sometimes found in natural weight loss, energy and cold remedies. There are anecdotal reports of people with thyroid disease becoming extra-sensitive to stimulants like caffeine, pseudoephedrine or ephedra.

this applies to phenylephrine, the decongestant found in DayQuil.

Q: Is having hot flashes a part of having thyroid disease, or am I still going through menopause?
I have thyroid disease and I am taking synthroid for it. If I start to get hot I will break out into a sweat. It is like a hot flash. I don’t have night sweats so I know I am over the menopause thing. Does anyone out there do the same thing that has thyroid disease? This is very bothersome to me… a real drag!

A: The symptoms of thyroid disease and menopause are almost the same. What you need to look out for are additional symptoms so that you can tell the difference between the two health conditions.

Aside from hot flashes, thyroid problem symptoms include pain in the neck and swelling of arms and legs. Visual disturbances and extreme fluctuation of weight are also signs of a thyroid problem.

If you are suffering from night sweats and vaginal dryness, you are most likely to be suffering from menopausal symptoms.

I’ve been visiting this site to learn more about hot flashes. http://www.hotflashfreedom.com/

Q: Can a Thyroid disease turn in to cancer?
I have been struggling with an underactive thyroid for 13 years. What is the worst that can happen? Is this a serious disease?

A: Any part of the body can become cancerous, but being hypothyroid doesn’t increase the risk of thyroid cancer. It just means that you will need to be on meds to control it for your entire life and your thyroid levels will have to be monitored. Thats about as bad as it will get.

Q: Why are weight loss supplements dangerous for those with thyroid disease?
Why are most weight loss supplements dangerous for people who are suffering from a thyroid disease? Is this reason still substantial for those whose thyroid is regulated with medication?

A: They can be dangerous because alot of them contain ephedra. Ephedra can affect your heart rate and blood pressure, things that are already slightly unstable because its being controlled thyroid replacement hormones, such as synthroid.

Q: Is it possible to be on hormonal birth control with an overactive thyroid caused by Graves disease?
I am a 20 year old female who was diagnosed with Grave’s disease 4 years ago. My gynecologist told me I was not eligible for hormonal birth control because of my thyroid disease. I plan on asking my endocrinologist my next appointment. Could my endo overrule my gyno in this situation?

A: You can take birth control pills. Just be prepared for them to affect your thyroid levels. You will need to have your medication adjusted. Get your thyroid tested a month after starting on the pill. Have your medication adjusted. Repeat every month until you are totally stable again.

thyroid diseases

admin — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Read and learn more about thyroid diseases. For more, visit the Thyroid Disease website ThyroidDiseaseWiki.com.

Q: Thyroid Diseases?
Management of Goitres

A: Have you had any testing done? Are your levels high or low, hyper or hypoactive? Any symptoms of thyroid disease? Dry skin, insomnia, heart palpitations, dizziness, anxiety, depression, weight gain/loss, the list goes on and on. Is there a family history of thyroid disease? Managing goiters isn’t too difficult, there are some simple and not so simple tests that need to be done. Depending on the results of some of the tests below.

For instance, they usually start with a simple ultrasound, then a thyroid scan with radioactive isotopes. This will determine if the goiters are hot (working) or cold (not working). Generally if they are (hot), your thyroid levels may be elevated, determining that your thyroid is producing too much. If this is just the beginning, they could be borderline and your physician may just watch things for a while. If they are too elevated your physician may recommend having dose of Radioactive Iodine to shrink the goiters and reduce over activity, in some cases your thyroid levels will go back to normal. However, this may also lead to hypothyroidism at which time you will be placed on thyroid replacement therapy. But untreated hyperthyroidism can be very bad health wise (poor calcium absorbtion is just one effect) so better to be on replacement therapy.

Now if you have a scan and the goiters are cold, they are not functioning which can mean a number of things. They will have to do a fine needle biopsy. Not a big deal. If they are not functioning in most cases they need to be removed. It does not mean that if they are not functioning that you have cancer. This test will determine if in fact they are benign or malignate. If surgical intervention is required, they may be able to remove the just the part that is effected and hopefully your thyroid will resume normal function. In most cases they will try to leave a portion of the thyroid intact. If they find that your entire gland has to be removed, then after surgery you will be put on thyroid replacement therapy.

Hope you fine this information helpful. By the way, I am also a patient, I have multi-nodular goiters, July 2006 I just had the treatment with Radioactive Iodine and so far my thyroid is producing normally without any further intervention.
I am also a nurse. Good Luck!

Q: Are certain thyroid diseases heredity? Could it be passed down from mother to daughter if the mother has it?
Take a mother and daughter for example. The mother has some thyroid disease (I do not know what it is exactly, maybe the one where the thyroid is overworking) but the father does not have any disease. The daughter is still young, and so it probably is likely the disease won’t appear until she ages. Please name which diseases are heredity or if none of them at all are. Like if it just by chance its your body malfunctioning or what.

The mother has low hemoglobin, hematocrit, and iron, but has high TSH (high sensitivity in the thyroid I think?), and cholesterol.

Thanks. Need this for both educational reasons and possible reality situations.

A: from what i was told by an endo i saw from thyroid issues it can be passed on and occur younger and younger in each gereration….
my grandmother was hyper…diagnosed later in life
i was diag. hypo in my 30’s
my daughter was diag hypo at 9

ck out www.about.com and go to the thyroid section under health to get some great info about this…..

Q: What are some treatments for Thyroid diseases?
I’m doing a group project on Tyriods and we’re having a hard time finding information on treatments. They don’t have to be complex, just to give some ideas.

A: here check out webmd.
on the left side there are bullet points and several of them have to to with treatments.

here is the link for hyperthyroidism:http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/hyperthyroidism-topic-overview

and here is the link for hypothyroidism:http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/hypothyroidism-topic-overview

hope this helps you out.

Q: i would like to know if there is someone here specialized in throat ( Thyroid) diseases?
i have a problem with my thyroid, Hypothyroidism (Under-Active Thyroid)
and i would like to know what fruits and veg i should eat to improve its function and have a much higher metabolism. what should i avoid in my diet too. i don’t like the idea of pills, i would rather do it the natural way. Many Thanks.

A: Thyroid problems can very very tricky. You should speak with an Endocrinologist.

Q: Does a Complete Blood Count test for Thyroid diseases?
Just wondering if the basic complete blood count test checks for hypothyroidism/hyperthyroidism?

Thank you.

A: CBC includes white cell count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. Thyroid disease is tested with TFTs (thyroid function tests) which typically include TSH (the initial test sent) which if it is abnormal then T3 and T4 are sent.

Q: What are 12 diseases/conditions in the endocrine gland that involve the thyroid?
What are 12 conditions and or diseases that happen in the thyroid gland that is related with the endocrine?

A: Thyroid cancer

Q: why thyroid diseases are more common in women than in men?

A: Probably because our hormones change more frequently. Many woman have thyroid episodes a few months after the birth of a baby. I know I did.

Q: positive and negative feed back of thyroid gland diseases?
im writing report right now.
please help me.
i checked wiki already.
anything you know about thyroid gland disease please.
thanks a lot n_n

A: All types of hyperthyroidism are due to an overproduction of thyroid hormones, but the condition can occur in several ways: In Graves’ disease, the release of excess hormones is triggered by an autoimmune disorder. For some unknown reason, the body attacks the thyroid, causing it to spill out too much hormone. At other times, nodules called toxic adenomas develop in the thyroid gland and begin to secrete thyroid hormones, upsetting the body’s chemical balance; some goiters may contain several of these nodules. In subacute thyroiditis, inflammation of the thyroid causes the gland to “leak” excess hormones, resulting in temporary hyperthyroidism that generally lasts a few weeks but may persist for months. Although rare, hyperthyroidism can also develop from pituitary gland malfunctions or from cancerous growths in the thyroid gland.

Hypothyroidism, by contrast, stems from an underproduction of thyroid hormones. Since your body’s energy production requires certain amounts of thyroid hormones, a drop in hormone production leads to lower energy levels. A common cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune disorder in which the body attacks thyroid tissue. The tissue eventually dies and stops producing hormones.

Hypothyroidism can also result when the thyroid gland has been surgically removed or chemically destroyed as treatment for hyperthyroidism. If you are exposed to excessive amounts of iodide — perhaps from a hidden source such as cold and sinus medicines, the heart medicine amiodarone or from certain contrast dyes given before some x-rays — you may be at greater risk for developing hypothyroidism, especially if you have had thyroid problems in the past. The drug lithium has also been linked as a cause of hypothyroidism. Untreated for long periods of time, hypothyroidism can bring on a myxedema coma, a rare but potentially fatal condition that requires immediate hormone injections.

Hypothyroidism poses a special danger to newborns and infants. A lack of thyroid hormones in the system at an early age can lead to the development of cretinism (mental retardation) and dwarfism (stunted growth). Most infants now have their thyroid levels checked routinely soon after birth. If they are hypothyroid, treatment begins immediately. In infants, as in adults, hypothyroidism can be due to a pituitary disorder, a defective thyroid, or lack of the gland entirely. A hypothyroid infant is unusually inactive and quiet, has a poor appetite and sleeps for excessively long periods of time.

Cancer of the thyroid gland is quite rare and occurs in less than 10% of thyroid nodules. You might have one or more thyroid nodules for several years before they are determined to be cancerous. People who have received radiation treatment to the head and neck earlier in life, possibly as a remedy for acne, tend to have a higher-than-normal propensity for thyroid cancer.

Q: Positive and negative feed back of thyroid gland diseases?
im writing report now.
please help
ANYTHING about thyroid gland diseases
* i checked wiki already… anything else?

A: The thyroid gland is a soft tissue gland and absorbs a lot of things that can effect it’s performance. A good example of this is the heavy metal aluminum. There is an estimated 13 million Americans suffering from hypothyroid (low thyroid function) condition that do not know they have the problem.

Much of the problem is associated with eating SOY products and peanuts found in peanut butter. Soy is being put in so many foods made in America today and is masked by naming it things like “textured vegetable protein” that is actually a refined soy food. Also soybean oil is being used in many things like salad dressings, cooking oils, etc., etc. It is even being used to make cheese cheaper by pizza companies like Pizza Hut, etc. Soy is a goitrogen and this inhibits mineral absorption, especially iron (over 50%). This isi why so many vegetarians are anemic. Soy slows the thyroid function down and can be found in the literature of drug companies that make thyroid products like Synthroid telling people to not eat soy because it counteracts the effectiveness of the drugs.

The rise of industrialization, corporate farming, and mass production of food has drastically changed our food supply from what our ancestors ate. Many studies show the detrimental effects of refined sugars and grains on our health. These foods are very taxing on the thyroid gland, and we consume them in large quantities.

Environmental stress such as chemical pollutants, pesticides, mercury, and fluoride are also tough on the thyroid. Fluoride widely used toothpaste and water treatment inhibits the functioning of the thyroid gland. Additionally, mercury will diminish thyroid function because it displaces the trace mineral selenium, and selenium is involved in conversion of thyroid hormones T4 to T3.

The food you eat, the environment we live in, and chemicals being added to the water supply and food can greatly affect the thyroid functions. It’s no wonder more and more Americans are suffering from thyroid problems.

Additionally, the solution doctors present is to take the easy way out and treat the symptoms by giving drugs to people like Synthroid rather than treat the cause. The problem is that the Synthroid drug basically kills the thyroid function and you become dependent upon the drug for the rest of your life.

A lot of thyroid problems could be solved by eliminating fluoride, mercury, aluminum, and other heavy metals from the diet and environment. Also, by eliminating all SOY products from your diet, you can greatly increase the health of your thyroid and in many cases restore the gland’s normal functions.

Another good food to eat for the thyroid is coconut oil. It contains a lot of lauric acid that is very good for the thyroid.

good luck to you

Q: What is the difference in hypothyroidism and thyroid disease?
I have hypothyroidism and want to take some sinus medication. It says don’t take if you have thyroid disease.

A: It sounds like hypothyroidism is classified as thyroid disease. I wouldn’t take that medicine!

Q: Why is thyroid disease called the butterfly effect?
I have hypothyroidism, and i was wondering why thyroid disease is called the butterfly effect?

A: That’s hypothyroidism. You should call your vet and ask what you should do because the endocrine system is a delicate thing to mess with and the thyroid gland is a very large part of it.

thyroid disease treatments

admin — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Read and learn more about thyroid disease treatments. For more, visit the Thyroid Disease website ThyroidDiseaseWiki.com.

A: here check out webmd.
on the left side there are bullet points and several of them have to to with treatments.

here is the link for hyperthyroidism:http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/hyperthyroidism-topic-overview

and here is the link for hypothyroidism:http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/hypothyroidism-topic-overview

hope this helps you out.

Q: treatment of hyperactive thyroid disease?
im 13 years old and i’ve inherited hyperactive(not hypo) thyroid disease from my mom. i get shaking hands, loss of sleep and anxiety. what are the treatments for this for someone my age? is there a medication or any home remedies??

A: Hi there,

Please get medical treatment. I had thyroid symptoms over 5 years ago but was never treated. By the time I went to see a specialist, my symptoms had changed so I thought they went away, and I couldn’t afford the medical care. Now it’s 5 years later and I have been diagnosed with Graves Disease as the cause of my hyperthyroidism. I have been dealing with severe adrenal fatigue and hypoglycemia for the last 6 months since they’re common with thyroid problems, along with a LONG list of thyroid symptoms (both hypo and hyper symptoms). For a list of symptoms of both hypo and hyper, go here: http://thyroid.about.com/od/symptomsrisks/a/symptomsrisks.htm
If you don’t get treatment, your condition will eventually worsen.

If you’re hyper, you should get an Uptake & Scan thyroid test (it’s not scary or painful) to determine the cause and the best course of treatment. I’m on a low dose of PTU, as well as megadoses of vitamins. Please do a lot of research so you can understand your condition and what you can do to treat it. Unfortunately, not all doctors (even Endocrinologists, who specialize in thyroid disease, along with disorders like diabetes) understand thyroid disease so you must be own best advocate. There are tons of good books on Amazon about thyroid disease, adrenal fatigue and vitamins, and helpful websites like thyroid.about.com. Eating whole and organic foods, and avoiding white sugar, white flour, processed foods, caffeine, alcohol and smoking helps a lot. Don’t rush into a treatment like RAI (Radioactive Iodine Treatment) until you understand what it entails.

I highly recommend vitamins in addition to thyroid medication. Vitamins are 2,000 times safer than drugs! And they rarely have dangerous side effects, unlike drugs. Amino acids like L-tryptophan and 5-HTP are helpful for insomnia. Minerals like selenium, magnesium and zinc will help with anxiety. It’s also important to remember that no single vitamin is a magic bullet and a good multivitamin is recommended. I’ve been taking vitamins for over two months and most of my symptoms have greatly improved and/or disappeared (I noticed a difference within a day or two with some symptoms, and some symptoms take longer to correct, depending on how long you’ve been dealing with a deficiency). These two books are very helpful for which vitamins to take:

Feeling Fat, Fuzzy, or Frazzled?

http://www.amazon.com/Feeling-Fat-Fuzzy-Frazzled-Reproductive/dp/0452285569/ref=pd_bbs_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1195420741&sr=1-2

The Real Vitamin and Mineral Book

http://www.amazon.com/Real-Vitamin-Mineral-Book-4th/dp/158333274X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1195421588&sr=1-1

To clarify Bitsy’s comment, hyper is overactive & hypo is underactive.

Good luck!

Q: Radioactive Iodine or drug treatment for thyroid disease?which is better?
Please enlighten my mind about this two type solution for thyroid disease, maybe if there’s no hope for short medication with my thyroid problem i chose Radioactive treatment.

A: Whatever you do, do NOT have radiation.

I’m assuming that you have Grave’s disease. Did the doctor who offered you radiation tell you that radiation is NOT a cure for Grave’s disease? Did he tell you that it makes Grave’s disease worse? And did he tell you that after you have the radiation, you will not only still have Grave’s disease, but you will also have an additional disease (iatrogenic hypOthyroidism)? Did he tell you that while radiation will get rid of one symptom of Grave’s disease only (hyperthyroidism) that it might come back?

If your doctor didn’t tell you these things, then he is not allowing you informed consent. That is malpractice. And you should RUN away from this doctor as fast as you can, and find a new one.

The correct treatment for Grave’s disease is methimizole (or PTU in the UK). You take it until your body naturally goes into remission, or for the rest of your life, whichever comes first. There is absolutely NO cure for Grave’s disease. There is only treatment. Any doctor who tells you that he can cure you is telling lies and commiting malpractice.

Q: 3 thyroid disease questions?
Okay a few questions…please provide the website where you found this info…so i can prove it to my MORONIC doctor…

#1. Is there another way to detect thyroid disease besides blood tests ( I HATE NEEDLES!!)

# 2. How much blood needs to be taken for a blood test to detect thyroid disease

# 3. What is the solution/treatment for thyroid disease?

Thanks in advance…it would be helpful if people who have (or have had) thyroid problems could answer…but anyone else can too.

A: 1 the only way to test the thyroid levels (TSH, T3, T4, thyroid antibodies….) is through blood tests.
there are addtional blood and non blood tests that can be done if those results suggest something is wrong.

#2 2-4 small tubes depending on the exact blood tests that are done. (if just thyroid levels are tested it would be about 2 tubes but many times for the first time at least they will want to do a few routine blood tests too like a cbc (complete blood count) so thats when it would be about 4 tubes.)

#3 treatment would depend on what they find out from the tests. you may not need treatment, you may need to take thryroid medication if your thyroid levels are too low, you you may need to take a beta blocker if your thyroid levels are too high and your heart rate is too high. there is not just one treatment or solution.

are is a great link to learn about hypERthyroidism (overactive thyroid):

http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/hyperthyroidism-topic-overview

and here is a great link to learn about hypOthyroidism (underactive thyroid):

http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/hypothyroidism-topic-overview

not too sure what you wanted to prove your dr wrong about but somehow i have a feeling this is only going to prove you wrong.

i’ve had thyroid issues since 2007. at first i had severe hyperthyroidism and was put on a beta blocker to lower my heart rate while they hyperthyroidism calmed itself on its own. now recently i found out that i have hypothyroidism and a nodule on my thyroid. i’m going for further tests to see if it is cancerous or not.
i hate needles as well but as long as you have visible veins in your arms or hands it will be relatively painless. (i have no visible veins so it hurts)
most blood work labs have at least one reclining chair for the fainters although its also a good thing for people that hate needles cuz you can lay back and “relax” and they will talk to you and you won’t even see what they are doing and it won’t be so nerve wracking. so make sure you let them know you hate needles and would like to sit in the reclining chair if possible.

Q: does anyone have a thyroid disease? what treatment is the best.?

A: There really is no best treatment. You try one medication and if it doesn’t help you try a different one. For myself, I started on T4 (Levoxyl) It did nothing for my thyroid symptoms. Eventually Cytomel was added and it help with about half of my symptoms, Over time, I switched to Armour thyroid and it helped about 95% of my symptoms and I feel better thanI have in years.

The keys to this is learning about your condition, getting copies of your blood work, and never giving up until you are almost completely symptom free.

Links below

Q: What is a thyroid disease ?Can it be cured permanently or one is required to take medication life long?
Is it a disease or a distubed gland condition which needs one time treatement or life long treatment? Can it be corrected for once and for ever with the modern day medicines? If not treated out of ignorance then what are the extreme harmful effects of the disease? Can any medical professional guide me about this disease as to help me approach the doctor to be guided properly to overcome the problem?

A: I know a few people with thyroid problems and it does require you to take a drug called “synthroid” for the rest of your life. It really isn’t a big deal at all, hopefully you have an over-active thyroid in which case you won’t have to worry about the side effect of weight gain as you do with an under active one. Your primary care doctor should be able to feel if your thyroid is enlarged at the base of your neck, he may or may not refer you to a specialist, depends on your doctor, some primary care doctors can treat the condition. It’s really nothing life threatening and shouldn’t really effect much except possible weight gain or loss, being very tired all the time and other minor problems. Good luck and call your doctor, again, it’s not much to worry about

Q: Thyroid disease Questions Very Important Please Help !!!! Thank You So much !!!! Its Means a lot for the help?
the symptoms of thyroid disease
what causes thyroid disease
what medical doctor diagnoses thyroid disease
what tests and medical instruments are uesd to test for thyroid disease
what are the treatments
and is age related to thyroid disease

Thanks For Your Help!!

A: Here’s info on all the different types of thyroid disease: http://www.medicinenet.com/thyroid_disease/article.htm

Q: What treatments work best for an overactive thyroid – hyperthyroidism?
My son is 12 and dealing with an overactive thyroid with severe weight loss. He may also be showing small signs of Graves Disease with leg rash/itching. I am meeting with the doctor next week, but I wanted to have some info on treatments before we go. (serious answers only, please!)
What about Beta Blockers?

What kinds of food should he eat?

A: If he does have it, it would be strange. It usually affects people much older than him. But it’s good that you’re catching it now, if he does have it. They have different treatments available. I had Grave’s in the early 80’s and opted to have the gland removed. Now I suffer from hypothyroidism. Which I think is worse in many ways. Regardless of the treatment, you’ll have to make sure he is monitored for the hypo after wards. Former President Bush & Barbara Bush had Grave’s and they both had the radiation treatment. Both seem to be fine. I wish you luck….

PS Yeah…. one person mentioned Prozac…. And depression is a big part of having hypothyroidism. Make sure he is well disciplned and has a strong work ethic… those two things will help him down the road.

Q: What are the symptoms and consequences of Thyroid Disease?
Most common diagnosis & treatment…
And… I was hoping to hear from people who have this condition.

A: The symptoms of hypothyroidism — an underactive thyroid — tend to mirror the slowing down of physical processes that results from insufficient thyroid hormone. Common symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, constipation, fuzzy thinking, low blood pressure, fluid retention, depression, body pain, slow reflexes, and much more.

The symptoms of hyperthyroidism tend to reflect the rapid metabolism that results from an oversupply of thyroid hormone. Common symptoms include anxiety, insomnia, rapid weight loss, diarrhea, high heart rate, high blood pressure, eye sensitivity/bulging and vision disturbances, and many other concerns.

Go to: http://thyroid.about.com/od/symptomsrisks/a/symptomsrisks.htm

Hope that helped

Q: Do you still have Graves disease after your thyroid has been terminated by radio active treatment?
My friend wants me to ask this for her. Thanks

A: Yes, you do. Grave’s disease is an autoimmune disease. That means that it is caused by antibodies created by your body. The antibodies are created by the immune system, not the thyroid. The antibodies attack the thyroid. Destroying the thyroid does not stop the production of the antibodies. You will still have the antibodies, and you will still have Grave’s disease. The antibodies can find other things to attack besides the thyroid. Namely the skin, and most notably your eyes.

Check this out. This is what Grave’s disease of the eyes looks like:

http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001204/mediaindex

By destroying the thyroid, you will also be giving yourself a disease in addition to the Grave’s disease. Now you will also have hypothyroidism. You will have to be treated for the hypothyroidism for the rest of your life.

Q: Thyroid Disease & Synthroid need advice?
I developed a small rash on my face at the same time my doctor started me on Synthroid. (I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s Disease) After various home treatments i finally caved in and went back to see the dr about my new problem. He gave me some antibiotics and creams and told me to call him in 5 days if the rash was not gone because it meant i was having an allergic reaction to the meds and we needed to switch to the generic version. Its been 7 days and the rash is not gone, and i am terrified of having to switch my meds. (because other than the rash, it’s working) I have read and been told numerous times that the generic version isnt good because it can have different doses of the drug from batch to batch which isnt good when your thyroid depends on a stable dose. Also in the last week, my night sweats have come back and are almost as bad as they were a few months ago before starting the meds.

Has this happened to anyone else and what does it mean that the sweats are back? Do you think the rash is a big problem and should i call my dr to have the brand switched?

A: You can call your pharmacist and ask about the rash – they are usually very helpful. I also have hashimotos and your body swings from hyper to hypo symptoms, so if your night sweats have come back thats not unusual.
Good luck.

Q: alternative medication for thyroid disease?
after i gave birth, i had gained 6stones in one year! after endless tests it showed i had thyroid disease. (underactive)
they are still getting my medication levels rite, at the moment i am on 125mg a day, but it is making no difference at all. i am constantly tired, i have no energy. is there anything else i can try. its bad enough putting on so much weight, but being so lathargic is awful, especially wen i am trying to raise a child.
please advise. is thyroxine the only treatment?

A: Also you may want to get another doctors opinion, My son and sister both had major issues(different doctors)with getting levels right,Took her almost 2 years with all the same symptoms as you, She went to another Dr and with consultation with her first Dr they finally all got it right, Dont be discouraged,keep looking for the right levels and ask many questions.

Q: Graves (Basedown) thyroids disease & organotherapy? ?
Im looking for thyroids organotheraphy treatment for my dad. Im still not convinced about traditional medicine like radio iodine, tapazole or beta blockers as propanolol for many reasons, since they only inhibit t4 and t3 production or destroy thyroids cells and dont regulate the organ metabolism, so he can become hypo all life.
Does anybody has a testimonial on Graves disease treatment with organotheraphy?

I would really apprecciate your answers
Greetings from Mexico.

A: I had to look up organo therapy… It’s natural hormone replacement. In the case of Grave’s there is an excess of thyroid hormone, adding more will not make it better.

There are three options when dealing with Grave’s, after confirming that it is Grave’s, and not a hyper phase of Hashi’s.

1. Antithyroid medications. Some are beta blockers, some affect hormone conversion, some are receptor inhibitors.
2. Surgical removal (thyroidectomy) of all, or part, of the gland.
3. RAI to destroy all, or part of, the gland.

With all three, there is a small chance that there will be enough of a change to eliminate the hyper symptoms, but the chances are greater that gland function will reduce to the point where he will be hypo.

But….

There are natural hormone replacements for hyPO. A case of taking whole dessicated thyroid glandular, in tablet form, the main brand in the US is Armour thyroid.

Most likely it will be lifelong hormone replacement.

It is good that you are looking for options for your dad!!! Keep in mind though that the longer you wait, the more hyper he becomes, there will come a point where he will be too hyper for either antithyroid medication or surgery and then RAI is the only option. RAI has a lot more risks to it than the other two do.

So do your research and sit down with him and discuss options so that the best decision can be made for him.

Q: Can I get the details on thyroid disease?
…Like a little more info than a medical website would give about hyperthyroidism..like where it comes from, the symptoms, treatment, etc..

A: I found you a few sites that give you symtoms, treatments & general information. I’m sure these will help you.

http://www.hormone.org
http://www-Well-Being.com
http://www.Healthline.com
http://www.righthealth.com
http://www.linx-best.com
http://www.Thyroid-Disorders.prsto.com
http://www.healthrecipes.com/thyroid_symptoms.htm
http://www.thyroid.about.com
http://www.thyroid-fed.org/intro/patients.html
http://www.emedicinehealth.com/thyroid_problems/article_em.htm
http://www.health.ivillage.com/thyroid/topics/0,,4twl,00.html
http://www.medicinenet.com/hyperthyroidism/article.htm
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art31605.asp
http://www.womentowomen.com

I’m only sending you the best ones. You have all the information you want at your finger tips. I hope this helps you

Q: i have a thyroid disease and i’m 6 weeks pregnant… ?
someone has told me that it can link to a miscarriage, i have been taking treatment for my thyroid for a very long time. how can i be sure that my baby is going to make it? what can i do to reduce the risk of having a miscarriage?

A: Let me tell you. You are very lucky to have gotten pregnant. My uncle is sterile because of thyroid disease, so is my sister in law, and my cousin. Don’t listen to what “someone” told you just go by what the doctor tells you.

graves thyroid disease

admin — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Read and learn more about graves thyroid disease. For more, visit the Thyroid Disease website ThyroidDiseaseWiki.com.

Q: What to eat if you have an Hyperactive Thyroid or Graves Disease? ?
I’ve heard that there are certain foods that help to inhibit your thyroid function such as raw veggies like broccoli and cauliflower, and that I should avoid eggs and yellow vegetables like squash….does anyone know of a good Diet for Hyperactive Thyroid or Graves Disease?

A: hmm if you have graves disease try to avoid foods high in iodine content..because it affacts the overproduction on thyroid in your body.
sorry wish i could help more but that all i know
now quick queston…
i saw the answer you put about GOLDLEO tag editor..
i downloaded the program and all but now everytime i try to open up songs with the directory it won’t let me..
can you please help me?…its driving me nuts..thank you

Q: does anyone have experience with having eye problems, not graves disease associated with thyroid disease?
I have dry eye, itching, burning, eye aches and blurred side vision, and was told it is from my thyroid levels. I had my thyroid removed.

A: Wish I could tell you that you are different from the rest of us, but you are not. I had thyroid cancer and the eyes have not behaved normally since. The doc thought I was crazy, but I know I am short sighted when at my age I should be long sighted and it is the removal of the thyroid I think that did it

Q: Graves Disease: does one always have thyroid antibodies?
I have/had Graves Disease and was treated with radioactive iodine in 2005. Recently I was tested for thyroid antibodies and this came back negative. Does a person usually have thyroid antibodies with Graves Disease? Thanks for answers.
If one doesn’t have thyroid tissue anymore…due to radioactive iodine treatment or removal would the thyroid antibodies still be present?

A: These are can go up and down; 5 percent of Grave’s disease patient’s do not have elevated TSI antibodies

Q: I have Graves disease (thyroid) and I don’t like taking the medicine for it.I lose my hair and get sick from
I don’t like being a guinni pig,I think I should take natural remedies rather than other prescriptions. Plus not to mention the doctor bills, I can’t afford. What would you do ?

A: Graves’ Disease is a type of autoimmune disease that causes over-activity of the thyroid gland, causing hyperthyroidism. This over-activity is also sometimes called “toxic diffuse goiter.” The thyroid gland helps set the rate of metabolism, which is the rate at which the body uses energy. When the thyroid is too active, it makes more thyroid hormones than the body needs. High levels of thyroid hormones can cause side effects such as weight loss, rapid heart rate and nervousness. This is an uncommon disease that affects 2 percent of all women at some time in their lives.
These are the most common symptoms of Graves’ Disease and hyperthyroidism:
–trouble sleeping
–fatigue
–trouble getting pregnant
–frequent bowel movements
–irritability
–weight loss without dieting
–heat sensitivity
–increased sweating
–muscular weakness
–changes in vision or how your eyes look
–lighter menstrual flow
–rapid heart beat
–hand tremors
Graves’ Disease is the only kind of hyperthyroidism that is associated with swelling of the tissue around the eyes and bulging of the eyes. And rare cases, patients will develop a lumpy reddish thickening of the skin in front of the shins called pretibial myxedema. This skin condition is usually painless. The symptoms of this disease can occur slowly or very suddenly and are sometimes confused with other medical problems. Women can also have Graves’ Disease and have no visible symptoms at all.
Graves’ disease can be caused by a group of different factors that come together to cause thyroid problems, including heredity, your body’s immune system, your age, sex hormones, and possibly stress.
There are three treatments for Graves’ Disease:
–Medicine. There are some medicines called antithyroid drugs that can lower the amount of thyroid hormones made by the thyroid, causing it to make, normal levels. A doctor must give these medicines to you. Some patients who take an acute thyroid drug for 1 to 2 years have a remission from Graves’ disease; their thyroid function may remain normal even without medication.
–Radioactive iodine. The radioactive iodine damages thyroid cells, shrinking and eventually destroying the thyroid gland in order to reduce hormone levels. Like surgery, this condition usually leads to hypothyroidism, so that thyroid hormone supplement medication is needed for the rest of the patient’s life.
–Surgery. All of the thyroid gland will be removed. In most cases, people who have surgery for Graves’ Disease will develop an under-active thyroid (hypothyroidism, the opposite of hyperthyroidism), and will have to take thyroid replacement hormones for the rest of their lives.
After a diagnosis is made and a treatment is chosen, you should return to your doctor for regular follow-up visits every year to make sure that your thyroid levels are normal and for adjustments in your medicine dose if need be. (It may take some time before your levels are accurate…even if you get it taken out, you will still need medication to “fake” your body into thinking it has a thyroid)
NOW READ THIS!! If left untreated, Graves’ Disease can lead to heart problems and problems in pregnancy, and an increased risk of a miscarriage. Severe, untreated Graves’ Disease can be fatal. Thyrotoxic storm is a rare life-threatening condition that develops in cases of untreated hyperthyroidism. It is usually brought on by an acute stress, such as trauma surgery or infection. Symptoms are severe, with a pounding heart, sweating, restlessness, shaking, diarrhea, change in consciousness, agitation and confusion. Congestive heart failure can develop rapidly and lead to death.

You can find out more information about Graves’ Disease by contacting the National Women’s Health Information Center (800-994-9662) or the following organizations:

Graves’ Disease Foundation of America
P.O. Box 8387
Fleming Island, FL 32006
Internet address: http://www.ngdf.org

The American Thyroid Association
6066 Leesburg Pike, Suite 550
Falls Church, Virginia 22041
phone: 703 998-8890
fax: 703 998-8893
e-mail: admin@thyroid.org
Internet address: http://www.thyroid.org

Thyroid Foundation of America, Inc.
One Longfellow Place
Suite 1518
Boston, MA 02114
phone (toll-free): 800 832-8321
phone: 617 534-1500
fax: 617 534-1515
e-mail: info@allthyroid.org
Internet address: http://www.allthyroid.org

And, if you’re interested, here’s some info about me, and for anyone else who may come across your question & needs more information about thyroid problems:
I have low thyroid. If you have low thyroid…here’s a great question to answer: Can you see the floor of your house? That was what was asked of me at one point, and to my amazement, the answer was no!
Anyway, the signs are:fatigue and lack of energy. Women suffering from underactive thyroid experience heavier menstrual periods. Sluggishness and forgetfulness are symptoms of underactive thyroid problem. Other symptoms of this thyroid disorder are dry skin and hair and constipation.
If you have high thyroid, or an overactive one, the signs are: increased body metabolism. This is followed by weight loss and excessive warmth and sweating. Persons suffering from overactive thyroid experience trembling hands, irritability and rapid heartbeat or palpitations. Women with overactive thyroid or hyperthyroidism may experience shorter or lighter menstrual periods.
I take medication, and sadly will have to take 1 pill everyday for the rest of my life. There’s a blood check that they will do to see if you have low or high. Again, as I mentioned before, it may take some ups & downs until the medicine gets where it needs to be for you. I hope i’ve helped you!!

Q: Does Graves Disease (thyroid Problem) cause your hair to fall?
Im 15 and i am diagnosed with graves disease, my hair falls down alot, how can i prevent this from happening, cause its scaring me:( i dont wanna go bald or anything:(

A: No. Your hair falling out is a symptom of hypOthyroidism. Are you in treatment for your Grave’s disease? If so, you could very well have iatrogenic hypOthyroidism. Get new blood tests, and find out. If you do, shame on your doctor. You should fire him.

Q: Thyroid;Graves disease (hyper thyroid) can vitamin B supplements be a percipitating factor?

A: No. Grave’s disease etiology is unknown, but believed to be genetic.. It also may be an autoimmune. It is more common in women than men. My daughter and I both have it. It can arise following an infection, stress,physical or emotional.

Q: Do you still have Graves disease after your thyroid has been terminated by radio active treatment?
My friend wants me to ask this for her. Thanks

Check this out. This is what Grave’s disease of the eyes looks like:

http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001204/mediaindex

Q: Should i take methimizole for graves disease or should i have a thyroid erectomy?
I was diagnosed with graves disease two years ago and i go from hyper to hypo thyroid. in the last six months i have taken three pills of methimizole per day. the doctor told me that the pills cannot totally balance a thyroid and i’d like to feel normal but i’m concerned about gaining more weight

A: Are you currently hypo because of your medication? Maybe then 3 pills are too much?´

RAI (Radioiodine Ablation) is a very serious decision to be taken, consider the bad and the good effects (bad: can worsen or provoke the eye disease in Graves, and people usually turn hypo afterwards und therefore rely on hormones for the rest of your life, means you still are on meds and may not feel totally balanced either)

There are several good sources for information about all this.

Try:

http://www.thyroid.about.com

and especially for the RAI:

http://www.elaine-moore.com/gravesdisease/RAI.htm

Elaine gives a lot of good information also on:

http://www.suite101.com/welcome.cfm/graves_disease/

Good luck.

Q: is an overactive thyroid (graves disease) a serious condition and whats the best way to fix it?

A: Graves disease is a serious disease. I have been diagnosed with it in August, and I was very bad. After my last blood test my doctor ordered me to stop taking PTU this week, I am better now. Hope that it will stay like this.

Graves disease is an autoimmune disorder which means that antibodies are attacking the thyroid and stimulating it continiously. The result is that then there are too many thyroid hormones in the body provoking rapid heart beat, sensitivity to light, weak muscles, nervousness etc. There are some other symptoms that can occur, the antibodies can affect the eyes (TED), the skin of the legs etc.

Here is a very good introductory for learning more about this disease:

http://www.suite101.com/course.cfm/19330/seminar

There is no treatment on this earth to cure the autoimmune disease so far. However the the overproduction of the thyroid can be reduced by medication. Here in the US doctors still do favor RAI (radio iodine ablation). In Europe this treatment is not recommended for Graves disease since this can provoke or worsen the eye disease (TED).

Excerpt:

“It has been reported that almost 70% of the members of the American Thyroid Association prefer the ablative approach as a first option for treatment of Graves’ patients. Physicians claim that the correct amount of I131 (Radioactive Iodine, RAI) can be administered to create a euthyroid or “normal” condition. Physicians try to adjust the dose of radioactive iodine to destroy only enough of the thyroid gland to bring its hormone production back to normal, without reducing thyroid function too much; others use a larger dose to completely destroy the thyroid. Most of the time, people who undergo this treatment must take thyroid hormone replacement therapy for the rest of their lives. (Merck Rx).

Nonetheless, a longterm study from 1965-2002 that included over 2000 patients, and was published in Clinical Endocrinology 2004, concluded that; RAI treatment of Hyperthyroid Graves’ patients resulted in 82% developing Hypothyroidism between 1 and 25 years post treatment. In 17% of patients in the study multiple radio-active iodine treatments (from 2-6 additional treatments) were needed to achieve a “euthyroid” or hypothyroid state. The ablative therapy leaves the patient without any alternative treatment options and a lifetime of hormone replacement therapy.

Anti-Thyroid Drug (ATD) therapy involves the prescription of immunomodulatory drugs like Methimozole (MMI) or Propylthiouracil (PTU). These strategies allow the patient to maintain their own Thyroid, and 30-55% of patients will become euthyroid following ATD therapy, an option lost to those who no longer have their Thyroid. The standard school of thought has been 12-18 months of treatment and then the removal of the ATD therapy. However, in a paper published Clinical Endocrinology 2005 a study of patients that remained on ATD for an average of 4 years (some as many as 10 years) had a remission rate of 88%. Additionally, another study found in Thyroid 2000 vol. 10 demonstrated that GD patients that exhibited a “smooth” decline in their antibody levels, or population, after ATD therapy was said to be a predictor of remission. In 36 out of 44 patients, or 82%, exhibiting a “smooth” decline of TSI levels were antibody and symptom free 1 year after the removal of the ATD therapy.
It has been reported that almost 70% of the members of the American Thyroid Association prefer the ablative approach as a first option for treatment of Graves’ patients. Physicians claim that the correct amount of I131 (Radioactive Iodine, RAI) can be administered to create a euthyroid or “normal” condition. Physicians try to adjust the dose of radioactive iodine to destroy only enough of the thyroid gland to bring its hormone production back to normal, without reducing thyroid function too much; others use a larger dose to completely destroy the thyroid. Most of the time, people who undergo this treatment must take thyroid hormone replacement therapy for the rest of their lives. (Merck Rx).

Full article:

http://autoimmunedisease.suite101.com/article.cfm/causesofhyperthyroidism

This article is on the long term effects of the RAI destruction of the thyroid

http://www.suite101.com/article.cfm/graves_disease/60453

Sorry for all this information, I did a lot of research on this since I really want to get better and I just hope this might help you understanding this disease better. Everybody with Graves should reduce his iodine intake (bread – potassium iodide for example and dairy are high in iodine), since the body takes all the iodine it can find and uses it to produce thyroid hormones. The less iodine, the better one gets… I did…

Q: can overactive thyroid / graves disease affect a male conceiving?

A: Well, men shouldn’t be conceiving anyway, so………

Q: Looking for info on Graves Eye Disease w/o thyroid involvement…?
My double vision / retracted eyelid have been diagnosed as Graves Disease but my thyroid test came back normal. Are there any other symptoms that can occur? Can this type of graves be treated other than correcting the eye symptoms w/ surgery?

A: all my books link Graves Disease to thyroid..sorry i cant help more..e

Q: I was diagnosed with Graves Disease and given radioactive iodine to kill my thyroid.?
I am on levoxyl now but wonder if i still have graves disease. is this something that you have for the rest of your life or did it go away when i had my thyroid killed?

A: Grave’s disease is an autoimmune disease. It is defined by the presence of antibodies attacking the body, not by hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is only one symptom of Grave’s disease. You have only alleviated that one symptom, and replaced it with another (hypOthyroidism.)

So you still have Grave’s disease, and you will likely have it the rest of your life, due to having the RAI. If you hadn’t had RAI, you would have a good chance that you would have had a remission of the Grave’s disease at some point, but that’s unlikely now.

Watch your eyes very carefully, and get to the doctor at the first sign of trouble. Once you have RAI, Grave’s disease tends to attack the eyes.

Keep up with your blood tests. Every six weeks until you are totally stable and symptom free. Then at least every six months for the rest of your life.

Q: is the difference between an overactive thyroid & graves disease? if so what is it?

A: “Hyper” means “over” in Greek. The thyroid hormones regulate many aspects of our metabolism, eventually affecting how many calories we burn, how warm we feel, and how much we weigh.

Role of thyroid gland in the body:

Thyroid hormones are produced by the thyroid gland. This gland is located in the lower part of the neck, below the Adam’s apple. The gland wraps around the windpipe (trachea) and has a shape that is similar to a butterfly formed by two wings (lobes) and attached by a middle part (isthmus). These hormones also have direct effects on most organs, including the heart. Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which there is an excessive amount of thyroid hormones circulating in the blood because of an overactive thyroid gland. In healthy people, the thyroid makes just the right amounts of two hormones, T4 and T3, which have important actions throughout the body. These hormones regulate many aspects of our metabolism, eventually affecting how many calories we burn, how warm we feel, and how much we weigh. In short, the thyroid “runs” our metabolism. These hormones also have direct effects on most organs, including the heart which beats faster and harder under the influence of thyroid hormones.

Graves’ disease is the most common form of hyperthyroidism. It occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks your thyroid gland and causes it to overproduce the hormone called thyroxine. This abnormal immune response can also affect the tissue behind your eyes as well as your skin, usually on your lower legs and feet.

When you have too much thyroid hormone in your system, your body’s metabolism rate can increase by 60 percent to 100 percent because thyroxine regulates your cells’ metabolism. A higher metabolism can lead to a number of health problems, such as an irregular heartbeat or anxiety.

Graves’ disease is rarely life-threatening. Although it may develop at any age and in either men or women, Graves’ disease is more common in women and usually begins after age 20. The disorder is uncommon, affecting about five in every 10,000 people in the United States.

Q: Graves Disease – what else does it affect apart from thyroid and eyes?
My doctor want’s me to remove my thyroid gland in order to fix my hyperthryoidism symptoms. BUT, I believe that i will still have Graves Disease anyway. What other organs etc can be affected please?

Thanks

A: I had Graves and had the radioactive iodine treatment…it is painless and has worked for me. the only time that the thyroid is removed is because of a growth on the thyroid. If it is just Graves ask your doctor about the radioactive treatment. You will then have to take thyroid replacement hormone for the rest of your life but its no big deal. Graves causes heart palpitations, sweating. muscle soreness, sleeplessness, thinning hair, depression among other problems…just go through with the treatment and you will feel much better.

thyroid disease treatment

admin — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Read and learn more about thyroid disease treatment. For more, visit the Thyroid Disease website ThyroidDiseaseWiki.com.

A: Whatever you do, do NOT have radiation.

If your doctor didn’t tell you these things, then he is not allowing you informed consent. That is malpractice. And you should RUN away from this doctor as fast as you can, and find a new one.

A: Hi there,

Feeling Fat, Fuzzy, or Frazzled?

http://www.amazon.com/Feeling-Fat-Fuzzy-Frazzled-Reproductive/dp/0452285569/ref=pd_bbs_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1195420741&sr=1-2

The Real Vitamin and Mineral Book

http://www.amazon.com/Real-Vitamin-Mineral-Book-4th/dp/158333274X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1195421588&sr=1-1

To clarify Bitsy’s comment, hyper is overactive & hypo is underactive.

Good luck!

Q: does anyone have a thyroid disease? what treatment is the best.?

The keys to this is learning about your condition, getting copies of your blood work, and never giving up until you are almost completely symptom free.

Links below

Q: Do you still have Graves disease after your thyroid has been terminated by radio active treatment?
My friend wants me to ask this for her. Thanks

Check this out. This is what Grave’s disease of the eyes looks like:

http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001204/mediaindex

Q: 3 thyroid disease questions?
Okay a few questions…please provide the website where you found this info…so i can prove it to my MORONIC doctor…

#1. Is there another way to detect thyroid disease besides blood tests ( I HATE NEEDLES!!)

# 2. How much blood needs to be taken for a blood test to detect thyroid disease

# 3. What is the solution/treatment for thyroid disease?

Thanks in advance…it would be helpful if people who have (or have had) thyroid problems could answer…but anyone else can too.

are is a great link to learn about hypERthyroidism (overactive thyroid):

http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/hyperthyroidism-topic-overview

and here is a great link to learn about hypOthyroidism (underactive thyroid):

http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/hypothyroidism-topic-overview

not too sure what you wanted to prove your dr wrong about but somehow i have a feeling this is only going to prove you wrong.

Q: has anyone had Radioactive Iodine treatment for an overactive thyroid (Graves’ Disease)?
I have Graves’ Disease…and the endocrinologist wants me to have radioactive iodine treatment to kill off my thyroid and definitively treat my overactive thyroid. I’ve been on medication (PTU) to suppress my thyroid for three years…but I still get sympotoms from time to time….especially a racing heart and atriall fibrillation.Can anyone help me with advice?…What happened to you folloowing RAI??? any problems??? Should I have it done???
Please help…thanks

A: I had RAI for thyroid cancer, and I had to stay away from people for about a week due to the radioactivity. Some people experience painful, swollen salivary glands, temporary loss of taste, nausea, nothing really too horrible. You will need to go on thyroid replacement hormone after that, but millions of people are on that. You and your doctor should talk about the pros and cons to getting RAI, then you can make an informed decision.

Q: Hyperactive thyroid and radioactive iodine treatment?
My husband was diagnosed with hyperactive thyroid ( Graves disease) and is going to go thru radioactive iodine treatment. I was wondering if you or anyone you know have gone thru it and if it worked well and if there was any side effects? Also how long did it take for the thyroid to become underactive requiring you to take hormone replasements?

A: I went through the radioactive iodine treatment two years ago. I remember throwing up a lot that evening and having a bad headache, but after that evening, I was fine. That may have just been how my own body reacted to the radioactive iodine though.

If I remember correctly it was about three or four months after my radioactive iodine treatment that they finally started me on my thyroid medication.

Q: Help? Hyper thyroid & Graves disease treated with RAI 131 and needs another treatment?
Yes, on march 28th 08 I was treated with RAI131 treatment for hyperthroid and Graves disease I went back last week for my blood work and it came back showing that my levels are still high so I had more blood tests still waiting on results but my dr, told me I may need another radio iodine treatment has anyone out there in yahoo land encountered thios problem and with excessive sweating if so I would like to chat with you or please answer my ? Thanks!

A: I was given radioactive iodine in 1990 due to a misdiagnosis. I found out that it takes approximately 2 months for the thyroid to completely die off. After mine was gone I became severely hypOthyroid even tho I was eventually put on a synthetic T4 thyroid drug.

What I know now is that RAI isn’t a good thing. There are other less invasive and permanent ways to treat hypErthyroidism which is due to an upstream problem causing the thyroid to react. The problem with RAI is that it goes after anything in the body which has iodine receptors, expecially salivary glands, mucosal linings, etc. And then there’s that issue of it making us more at risk for cancers down the road. That part scares me greatly.

Listen, there is a discussion group with a lot of people on it that have also had radioactive iodine. It’s the Yahoo group called “thyroidless”. I’ve included the link along with the iodine group and the informative radioactive website that. The last link I included will help you learn how to heal after having radioactive iodine.

By the way, I totally wouldn’t ever have a second RAI treatment even for a million dollars. I’ve lived with this horror for the last 18 years…trust me.

Q: What are the symptoms and consequences of Thyroid Disease?
Most common diagnosis & treatment…
And… I was hoping to hear from people who have this condition.

Go to: http://thyroid.about.com/od/symptomsrisks/a/symptomsrisks.htm

Hope that helped

Q: Tyhroid-graves disease- my daughter has to have radiation treatment on her thyroid next week.?
Surgery is a no go she has a one-year-old son has anyone undergone this treatment–and would like to share some experience with me

A: I suspect she is about to have an I-131 uptake. We use radioactive Iodine to determine the function of the thyroid. Graves disease occurs in about 0.25 percent of the population, is not fatal and causes little problems. The Iodine has a very short-half life and will be elimanated quickly from her system. Surgery is unlikely and I suspect this procedure is simply a diagnostic examination so that her physician can better care for her…not as a treatment. If I am wrong, there are cancerous lesions that would require eith radiation or surgical intervention…those are not optional, inspite of the child. One of the problems with seeking advice here, not enough of the treatment or methods have been explained or there is faulty understanding and that encourages wrong advice. Specifically what kind of radiation was she scheduled for? Was it a test or a treatment? Many people don’t ask enough of their physicians to get a handle on what is to take place and simply nod their heads and accept scraps of information and then suffer from needless fear. Graves’ disease, the most common type of hyperthyroidism, is characterized by general over-activity of the thyroid gland. Since the thyroid is responsible for maintaining a normal metabolism, over-activity of the thyroid gland can have some dramatic effects on your body’s metabolism when too much hormone is released. Metabolism is the process by which digested nutrients are converted into energy and used for the body’s cells to do their work This work includes regulating your heart rate, the amount of calories you burn when you are resting, your energy level and other bodily functions. When the thyroid is functioning abnormally it can cause an increased pulse rate, nervousness and sweating, heat intolerance, hair loss. Graves’ disease is rarely fatal, and people seldom get extremely ill because of it. It may be necessary to remove some of the thyroid tissue, but seldom is it necessary to use radiation to destroy tissue.

Q: my thyroid profile has tsh 9, t3 1.5 and t4 10 , what kind of disease i have? when should i start treatment?

A: look up hypothyroid on the web for more info.treatment,daily pill of thyroid hormone.takes about 6-8 months to fully work,but u will feel perfectly normal after that.i have it,and i feel gr8 and full of energy now!good luck!

A: here check out webmd.
on the left side there are bullet points and several of them have to to with treatments.

here is the link for hyperthyroidism:http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/hyperthyroidism-topic-overview

and here is the link for hypothyroidism:http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/hypothyroidism-topic-overview

hope this helps you out.

Q: do i need to have the radioactive iodine treatment for graves disease?
a had a thyroid storm and found out i have graves disease i’ve seen people talking about radioactive iodine treatment yet it sounds maybe not worth it could i just live on my meds and never have surgery or the iodine treatment and be fine???

A: There are other treatments available.

thyroid disease goiter

admin — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Read and learn more about thyroid disease goiter. For more, visit the Thyroid Disease website ThyroidDiseaseWiki.com.

Q: If you have an enlarged goiter will you develop thyroid disease?
my mother had a hyper active thyroid and everyone on her fathers side had problems…ive had a goiter for about 12 years and my blood comes back ok….is there other tests besides blood and ultasound that they can take …like antibodies?? or am i just fine i am on my fourth child and they say pregnancy can make it misbehave.

A: No.

And why is this question in the “marraige and divorce” section?

Q: was diagnosed with thyroid disease (hyper) I had a goiter, and I have bad allergies, and I also suffer from b?
I have RA and the symptoms come and go

A: http://autoimmunedisease.suite101.com/discussion.cfm/4197/877-886

Q: is it possible to have a thyroid disease and not show up in the bloods?
I have many symptoms to many to mention but my thyroid is painful at times.I am developing a goiter and my thyroid gland is definitetly enlarged.Yet i had two thyroid tests one before christmas and one recently but my doctors says its comeback normal again.This is so annoying as i feel sick and still know results.

A: What kind of blood test did you have? Did the doctor just do a TSH? If so that is not enough. You need to have your Ft4 and Ft3 checked. Also if you have a goiter you may be Iodine defincent. Check out the following web site.
www.stopthethyroidmadness.com

Q: thyroid disease?
hows it like being pregnant and being hyperthyroid or hypothyroid. wat meds do you take while pregnant. and if anybody has a goiter or mass on their necks. thanks for the answers.

A: I had carried 2 children while on thyroid med
and now my 3rd
your doc will take care of your med dosage and he will make you have blood test monthly to make sure that the baby is healthy as well as you
Good luck

Q: Is having Hypothyoidism a Thyroid Disease?
Long story short.. I got a lump in my neck very big they removed it ( I thought they removed my right thyroid but now im not sure if they did that and the lump or just the goiter ) Then a year later found out my thyroid wasnt working again and now im on medication Eltroxin 0.05 mg ( levothyroxin) Now when i go to get over the counter stuff it says do not take if you have thyroid disease so im wondering if hyprothryoidism a thyroid disease.

A: I’ve been taking synthroid for low thyroids for over 10 years and I’ve taken many over the counter medications that say not to take with thyroid disease, without any problems. However, the best thing to do would be to ask your doctor. Better safe then sorry. Have a great day. : )

Q: Operation to remove part of swollen thyroid (goiter). Risks associated with operation?
My friend is having an operation to remove part of her thyroid as she has Hashimotos disease and the gland has become quite large. Does anyone have any experience with this and does anyone know of the risks associated with the operation? I have been told it is quite a delicate operation and she will have to be off work for 4 weeks. Many thanks.

A: Surgery is always risky. I think the other post did well describing what to expect.

But what about the autoimmune disorder? Cutting out the thyroid isn’t going to solve the problem.

Also, you kind of need your thyroid. You can supplement with exogenous sources, but there are side effects that can cause you to be placed into not so nice categories (like more susceptible to stroke, Alzheimer’s, etc).

Here is some food for thought.

Autoimmune means that your body’s immune system is attacking itself, in your case the thyroid gland.

It does this by recognizing certain protein strands and tagging it with antibodies. Then your body sends out it seek and destroy immune mediators to kill off the tagged protein structures.

Usually this is how your body defends itself from viruses, bacteria, fungi, ect. There is a problem with your tagging system that has caused your body to attack itself.

This is usually diagnosed by testing for antibodies in blood work, as well as clinical symptoms.

How does this happen?

There is no one pin pointed cause. The most popular reason is because of some break down in your filtering system. You normally keep bad things out through things like your skin, gut lining etc.

If there is a problem with your gut, things get through that shouldn’t, your body recognizes it as foreign, tags it and destroys it.

Sometimes the protein structures of the things that get through look like the protein structures that make up certain cells in your body. That is why you see some of the other post saying that this autoimmune disorder is related to other autoimmune disorders (diabetes, lupus, RA, etc).

It is really a problem with your filter, not your thyroid (or at least primarily the problem). Treating the thyroid might help somewhat, but it will not address the problem (in my example, the gut lining (filter) being disrupted).

I got more information on this and other thyroid problems on my blog.

Q: I have a Thyroid disease and my multiple doctors can’t diagnose it. Please HELP!!?
Ok I was first told I have a thyroid disease about 2 years ago. I was 19yrs old and had a 9 month old son. My first and only symptom was I was tired and draging myself through a day. At first I thought it was just having a new baby but when he started sleeping through the night I thought something has got to be wrong. Well my TSH has always been extremeley low and sometime undetectable. But my t3 and t4 have always been normal. First they thought it was secondary hypothyroidism and put me on synthroid. Then that wasn’t helping so they did more tests and ruled it out again. My symptoms now are anxiety attacks, shakiness, my mind feels like it’s racing and I just can’t get enough done. I walk fast and I am now anti social. Which I used to love to talk but now I’m scared of conversation. I have hot flashes, migraines, can’t tolerate noise, but the worst one is my extreme fatigue. I’ve had numerous tests that shows I have a multi nodular goiter, enlarged thyroid, and 4 swallen lymphnodes.

A: I have grave’s disease – extreme hyperthyroidism. You may have been suffering from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome at first and when they gave you synthroid – it could have pushed your thyroid into overdrive! You symptoms are classic hyperthyroid symptoms, but I would see another doctor/specialist to determine exactly what the diagnosis would be. You never have to settle on what one doctor tells you. Remember – they call it a practice for a reason!! Good Luck and I hope you feel better soon!
Feel free to e-mail me if you have any other questions.
=)

Q: i want informations about goiter disease?
it’s a disease which infect thyroid gland… i want to make presentation about it so i want detailed regulated infgormations about this disease

A: A goiter is an enlargement of the thyroid gland. Persons with enlarged thyroids may have normal function of the gland (euthyroidism), thyroid deficiency (hypothyroidism), or overproduction of the hormones (hyperthyroidism). Goiter may be congenital or acquired, endemic or sporadic.
The goiter often results from increased pituitary secretion of thyrotropic hormone in response to decreased circulating levels of thyroid hormones. Thyroid enlargement may also result from infiltrative processes that may be inflammatory or neoplastic. Goiter in patients with thyrotoxicosis is caused by thyrotropin receptor-stimulating antibodies.

Figure 561-1 Congenital goiter in infancy. A, Large congenital goiter in an infant born to a mother with thyrotoxicosis who had been treated with iodides and methimazole during pregnancy. B, A 6-wk-old infant with increasing respiratory distress and cervical mass since birth. The operation revealed a large goiter that almost completely encircled the trachea. Notice the anterior deviation and posterior compression of the trachea. Partial thyroidectomy completely relieved the symptoms. It is apparent why a tracheostomy is not adequate treatment for these infants. The cause for the goiter was not found.
561.1 Congenital Goiter
Congenital goiter is usually sporadic and may result from a fetal thyroxine (T4 ) synthetic defect or the administration of antithyroid drugs or iodides during pregnancy for the treatment of thyrotoxicosis. Goitrogenic drugs and iodides cross the placenta and at high doses may interfere with synthesis of thyroid hormone, resulting in goiter and hypothyroidism in the fetus. The concomitant administration of thyroid hormone with the goitrogen does not prevent this effect, because insufficient amounts of T4 cross the placenta. Iodides are included in many proprietary preparations used to treat asthma; these preparations must be avoided during pregnancy because they have often been a cause of unexpected congenital goiter. Amiodarone, an antiarrhythmic drug with a 37% iodine content, has also caused congenital goiter with hypothyroidism. Even when the infant is clinically euthyroid, there may be retardation of osseous maturation, low levels of T4 , and elevated levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). In women with Graves disease on antithyroid drugs, these effects can occur when the mother takes only 100–200?mg of propylthiouracil/24?hr; all such infants should undergo thyroid studies at birth. Administration of thyroid hormone to affected infants may be indicated to treat clinical hypothyroidism, to hasten the disappearance of the goiter, and to prevent brain damage. Because the condition is rarely permanent, thyroid hormone may be safely discontinued after the antithyroid drug has been excreted by the neonate, usually after a week.
Enlargement of the thyroid at birth may occasionally be sufficient to cause respiratory distress that interferes with nursing and may even cause death. The head may be maintained in extreme hyperextension. When respiratory obstruction is severe, partial thyroidectomy rather than tracheostomy is indicated ( Fig. 561–1 ).
Goiter is almost always present in the congenitally hyperthyroid infant. These goiters usually are not large; the infant manifests

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clinical symptoms of hyperthyroidism, and the mother often has a history of Graves disease (see Chapter 562.1 ). TSH receptor-activating mutations are also a recognized cause of congenital goiter.
When no causative factor is identifiable, a defect in synthesis of thyroid hormone should be suspected. Neonatal screening programs find congenital hypothyroidism caused by such a defect in 1/30,000–50,000 live births. If the infant is hypothyroid, it is advisable to treat immediately with thyroid hormone and to postpone more detailed studies for later in life. Because these defects are transmitted by recessive genes, a precise diagnosis is helpful for genetic counseling. Monitoring subsequent pregnancies with ultrasonography can be useful in detecting fetal goiters (see Chapters 85.2 ).
Iodine deficiency as a cause of congenital goiters is rare in developed countries, but persists in isolated endemic areas (see below). More important is the recent recognition that severe iodine deficiency early in pregnancy may cause neurologic damage during fetal development, even in the absence of goiter. The iodine deficiency may result in maternal and fetal hypothyroidism, preventing the partially protective transfer of maternal thyroid hormones.
When the “goiter” is lobulated, asymmetric, firm, or large to an unusual degree, a teratoma within or in the vicinity of the thyroid must be considered in the differential diagnosis (see Chapter 563 ).
561.2 Endemic Goiter and Cretinism
Etiology
IODINE DEFICIENCY.
The association between dietary deficiency of iodine and the prevalence of goiter or cretinism has been recognized for more than half a century. A moderate deficiency of iodine can be overcome by increased efficiency in the synthesis of thyroid hormone. Iodine liberated in the tissues is returned rapidly to the gland, which resynthesizes triiodothyronine (T3 ) preferentially at a higher rate than normal. This increased activity is achieved by compensatory hypertrophy and hyperplasia, which satisfy the demands of the tissues for thyroid hormone. In geographic areas where deficiency of iodine is severe, decompensation and hypothyroidism may result. It is estimated that 2 billion individuals in developing countries live in areas of iodine deficiency.
Seawater is rich in iodine, and the iodine content of fish and shellfish is also high. Endemic goiter is rare therefore in populations living along the sea. Iodine is deficient in the water and native foods in the Pacific West and the Great Lakes areas of the United States. Deficiency of dietary iodine is even greater in certain Alpine valleys, the Himalayas, the Andes, the Congo, and the highlands of Papua New Guinea. In areas such as the United States, where iodine is provided in foods from other areas and in iodized salt, endemic goiter has disappeared. Iodized salt in the United States contains potassium iodide (100?µg/g) and provides excellent prophylaxis. Further iodine intake in the United States is contributed by iodates used in baking, iodine-containing coloring agents, and iodine-containing disinfectants used in the dairy industry. The recommended daily allowance of iodine for infants is greater than 30?µg/kg/24?hr; this amount is exceeded fourfold in breast-fed infants and 10-fold in infants fed cow’s milk in the United States.
Clinical Manifestations.
If the deficiency of iodine is mild, thyroid enlargement does not become noticeable except when there is increased demand for the hormone during periods of rapid growth, as in adolescence and during pregnancy. In regions of moderate iodine deficiency, goiter observed in schoolchildren may disappear with maturity and reappear during pregnancy or lactation. Iodine-deficient goiters are more common in girls than in boys. In areas where iodine deficiency is severe, as in the hyperendemic highlands of Papua New Guinea, nearly half the population has large goiters, and endemic cretinism is common.
Serum T4 levels are often low in individuals with endemic goiter, although clinical hypothyroidism is rare. This is true in New Guinea, the Congo, the Himalayas, and South America. Despite low serum levels of thyroid hormone, serum TSH concentrations are often only moderately increased. In such patients, circulating levels of T3 are elevated. Moreover, T3 levels are also elevated in patients with normal T4 levels, indicating a preferential secretion of T3 by the thyroid in this disease.
Endemic cretinism is the most serious consequence of iodine deficiency; it occurs only in geographic association with endemic goiter. The term endemic cretinism includes two different but overlapping syndromes—a neurologic type and a myxedematous type. The frequency of the two types varies among different populations. In Papua New Guinea, the neurologic type occurs almost exclusively, but in Zaire, the myxedematous type predominates. Both types are found in all endemic areas, and some individuals have intermediate or mixed features.
The neurologic syndrome is characterized by mental retardation, deaf-mutism, disturbances in standing and gait, and pyramidal signs such as clonus of the foot, the Babinski sign, and patellar hyperreflexia. Affected individuals are goitrous but euthyroid, have normal pubertal development and adult stature, and have little or no impaired thyroid function. Individuals with the myxedematous syndrome also are mentally retarded and deaf and have neurologic symptoms, delayed sexual development and growth, myxedema, and absence of goiter; serum T4 levels are low, and TSH levels are markedly elevated. Delayed skeletal maturation may extend into the 3rd decade or later. Ultrasonographic examination shows thyroid atrophy.
Pathogenesis.
The pathogenesis of the neurologic syndrome has been attributed to iodine deficiency and hypothyroxinemia during pregnancy, leading to fetal and postnatal hypothyroidism. Although some investigators have attributed brain damage to a direct effect of elemental iodine deficiency in the fetus, most believe the neurologic symptoms are caused by fetal and maternal hypothyroxinemia. There is evidence that the human fetal brain has receptors for thyroid hormone before development of the fetal thyroid, and there is also evidence of transplacental passage of maternal thyroid hormone into the fetus, which normally might ameliorate the effects of fetal hypothyroidism on the developing nervous system. The pathogenesis of the myxedematous syndrome leading to thyroid atrophy is more bewildering. Searches for additional environmental factors that may provoke continuing postnatal hypothyroidism have led to incrimination of selenium deficiency, goitrogenic foods, thiocyanates, and Yersinia. Studies from Western China suggest that thyroid autoimmunity may play a role. Myxedematous cretins with thyroid atrophy, but not euthyroid cretins, were found to have thyroid growth-blocking immunoglobulins of the kind found in infants with sporadic congenital hypothyroidism. Others are skeptical about any role of thyroid growth-blocking immunoglobulins to explain these findings.
Treatment.
In many developing countries, administration of a single intramuscular injection of iodinated poppy seed oil to women prevents iodine deficiency during future pregnancies for about 5 yr. This form of therapy given to children younger than 4 yr of age with myxedematous cretinism results in a euthyroid state in 5 mo. However, older children respond poorly and adults not at all to iodized oil injections, indicating an inability of the thyroid gland to synthesize hormone; these patients require treatment with T4 . In the Xinjiang province of China, where the usual methods of iodine supplementation had failed, iodination of irrigation water has increased iodine levels in soil, animals, and human beings.

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561.3 Sporadic Goiter
The term sporadic goiter encompasses goiters developing from a variety of causes; patients are usually euthyroid but may be hypothyroid. The most common cause of sporadic goiter is lymphocytic thyroiditis (see Chapter 560 ). Intrinsic biochemical defects in the synthesis of thyroid hormone are almost always associated with goiter. The occurrence of the disorder in siblings, onset in early life, and possible association with hypothyroidism (goitrous hypothyroidism) are important clues to the diagnosis.
Iodide Goiter.
A small percentage of patients treated with iodide preparations for prolonged periods acquire goiters. Iodides are commonly included for their expectorant effect in cough medicines and in proprietary mixtures for asthma. Goiters resulting from iodine administration are firm and diffusely enlarged, and in some instances hypothyroidism may develop. In normal individuals, acute administration of large doses of iodine inhibits the organification of iodine and the synthesis of thyroid hormone (Wolff-Chaikoff effect). This effect is short-lived and does not lead to hypothyroidism. When iodide administration continues, an autoregulatory mechanism in normal persons limits iodine trapping and permits the level of iodide in the thyroid to decrease and organification to proceed normally. In patients with iodide-induced goiter, this escape does not occur because of an underlying abnormality of biosynthesis of thyroid hormone. The persons most susceptible to the development of iodide goiter are those with lymphocytic thyroiditis or with a subclinical inborn error in thyroid hormone synthesis and those who have had a partial thyroidectomy.
Lithium carbonate also causes goiters; it is currently widely used as a psychotropic drug. Lithium competes with iodide; the mechanism producing the goiter or hypothyroidism is similar to that described earlier for iodide goiter. Lithium and iodide also act synergistically to produce goiter; their combined use should be avoided.
Amiodarone, a drug used to treat cardiac arrhythmias, can cause thyroid dysfunction with goiter because it is rich in iodine. It is also a potent inhibitor of 5′-deiodinase, preventing conversion of T4 to T3 . It can cause hypothyroidism, particularly in patients with underlying autoimmune disease; in other patients, it may cause hyperthyroidism.
Simple Goiter (Colloid Goiter).
A few children with euthyroid nontoxic goiters have simple goiters, a condition of unknown cause not associated with hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism and not caused by inflammation or neoplasia. The condition predominates in girls and has a peak incidence before and during the pubertal years. Histologic examination of the thyroid either is normal or reveals variable follicular size, dense colloid, and flattened epithelium. The goiter may be small or large. It is firm in half the patients and is occasionally asymmetric or nodular. Levels of TSH are normal or low, scintiscans are normal, and thyroid antibodies are absent. Differentiation from lymphocytic thyroiditis may not be possible without a biopsy, but biopsy ordinarily is not indicated. Therapy with thyroid hormone may help avoid progression to a large multinodular goiter, although it is difficult to separate any treatment effects from the natural history, which is for the goiter to decrease in size. Untreated patients should be re-evaluated periodically. This condition must be differentiated from lymphocytic thyroiditis (see Chapter 560 ).
Multinodular Goiter.
Rarely, a firm goiter with a lobulated surface and single or multiple palpable nodules is encountered. Areas of cystic change, hemorrhage, and fibrosis may be present. The incidence of this condition has decreased markedly with the use of iodine-enriched salt. A mild goitrogenic stimulus, acting over a long time, is thought to be the cause. Ultrasonographic examination may reveal multiple echo-free and echogenic lesions that are nonfunctioning on scintiscans. Thyroid studies are usually normal, but TSH may be elevated and thyroid antibodies may be present. The condition occurs in children with McCune-Albright syndrome (usually resulting in hyperthyroidism) and has been described in three children (including two siblings) with digital anomalies and cystic renal disease. Dominant nodules within a multinodular goiter, particularly those not suppressed by replacement therapy with T4 , may be an indication for evaluation by fine-needle aspiration because malignancy cannot readily be ruled out.
Toxic Goiter (Hyperthyroidism).
See Chapter 562 .
561.4 Intratracheal Goiter
One of the many ectopic locations of thyroid tissue is within the trachea. The intraluminal thyroid lies beneath the tracheal mucosa and is frequently continuous with the normally situated extratracheal thyroid. The thyroid tissue is susceptible to goitrous enlargement, which involves the normally situated and the ectopic thyroid. When there is obstruction of the airway associated with a goiter, it must be ascertained whether the obstruction is extratracheal or endotracheal. If obstructive manifestations are mild, administration of sodium-l-thyroxine usually causes the goiter to decrease in size. When symptoms are severe, surgical removal of the endotracheal goiter is indicated (also see Chapter 561.1

Q: Thyroid goiter/nodule and size?
I have been diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease and a multinodular goiter. I am having it removed next week due to the size, the ultrasound showed it at 6cm, two years ago it was about 4.5cm. The fnab showed it as benign back then. I have not taken any medication until last week. Here is my question: When I am stressed out the lump in the left side of my neck looks very large, when I’m not it is much smaller. (It’s not just be thinking this, my husband and co workers have noticed this as well) Has anyone experienced this?

A: Yes, it happens—Hasimotos’ can cause your thryroid to be very vascular & it will enlarge! Best of luck to you–My Mom has an appt w/her surgeon tomorrow–her nodule is 3cm, not sure if its malignant or not.

You should do just fine–I was back to work in 2 wks after my surgery! Feeling much more energetic since it was removed!!1

Good luck!♥♥♥

Q: Each year, i have to get an ultrasound for a goiter on the right side of my thyroid. Any suggestions ?
I am on synthroid for Hashimoto’s disease but I am not sure if this is what I should be treated for as the dr is not sure if it is actually hashimoto’s. Any input would be greatly appreciated

A: Hashi’s can be diagnosed by testing for thyroid antibodies. So that can be verified

Synthroid is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone T4. It replaces what the thyroid gland is no longer able to produce.

In the case of Hashi’s, you should be given enough replacement hormone, of the proper type, to bring the TSH as close to zero as possible without the level of the thyroid hormones (Free T4 and Free T3) going so high as to cause you to become hyperthyroid (excess thyroid hormone).

By proper type I mean that for some folks synthetic T4 products (like synthroid) dont’ work for us, either our bodies can not break them down to the absorbable stage and/or our bodies are not able to convert it to the active hormone, Free T3, for our body to be able to use to function.

It’s another reason that it’s a good idea to check your labs to be sure that they are running the correct tests to determine if your body is properly converting hormone, if it’s not, you can take all the T4 you want and still be a miserable heap on the floor suffering from hypothyroidism (insufficient thyroid hormone)

If you are still dealing with goiter (enlarged thyroid) in the right lobe, that is suggesting that your dosage is not yet correct for your body’s needs and/or your gland is dealing with continuing damage from the thyroid antibodies

A good first step would be to request copies of your labs so that you can see if your levels are where they need to be and that your dosage is correct. In my own experience … a ‘lets look at it next year to see if it’s gotten any worse’ attitude is unacceptable. I don’t want it to be worse, I want it to be properly managed now.

IMHO That inexcusable work ethic, be it from laziness, greed, or lack of knowledge, is something we, as paying customers, should not have to tolerate.

Q: Thyroid disease – specialist needed?
My family doctor does not want to refer me to an endocrinologist, but I am wondering how far I should go in insisting on one. I’m Canadian, so it’s all covered under Medicare.
In January, I was diagnosed hypothyroid and began taking synthroid (my doc didn’t even physically examine my neck) . Four weeks ago, a different doctor ordered a neck ultrasound and it was discovered that I have thyroiditis and a multinodular goiter (each lobe about 5cm). Despite being on synthroid, my TSH went up more than fourfold in the last few weeks, so he has decided to double my synthroid dose. My doctor has finally agreed to order a biopsy of the nodules after much insistence on my part. My understanding is that you automatically biopsy any thyroid nodule to be on the safe side. Furthermore, there is a history of thyroid cancer in my family. I don’t feel all that confident leaving it to a general practitioner, especially one that doesn’t seem to be all that thorough without a lot of prompting.

A: First of all, it’s pretty odd that the doctor didn’t palpate your thyroid gland. We do rely on advanced scanning technology a lot, but I don’t know if that means we should forgoe standardized physical exam procedures. I’m not an expert, only a med student, but any time we suspect something about the thyroid, you stand behind the patient, lightly palpate, and feel it as the patient swallows for any bumps.
Anyway, I think that since you do have such concern, you should let your doctor know that you’d feel most comfortable with a specialist and see what he/she says. I don’t know why the doctor didn’t agree the first time you requested a specialist, maybe there is some reason? But, either way, it’s best for the relationship just to clear the air and say how you feel. The doctor shouldn’t try to prevent you from seeking care how you see best. An endocronologist might have some additional insight into this, also. Good luck.

Q: I have a multinodule goiter. Why do I have this and why does it continue to grow?
I have had biospy done, it is benien. My TSH was .5 and my T3 and T4 were in the high end of the normal range. I am a fifth generation woman to have a goiter in my family. I am a 30 years old female. I am trying to figure out why this runs so heavily in my family and by the way my family has a history of autoimmune disease such as R.A. and Reiter’s Syndrome (I am the first to have Reiter’s syndrome in my family) and so on. I am trying to make since of all of this since my goiter continues to grow. I am having another ultrasound next Tuesday. I live in the US so iodine is not the issue. There has to be a reason even a hidden one because this goiter issue just runs to hard on the family to be just simple gentics-except maybe a certain thyroid or pitutary disease.

A: From what you wrote, I guess you’ve already read extensively regarding multinodular goitre (MNG) and other autoimmune diseases.

All i can tell you is this: the more it runs in the family, the more likely that this is due to genetics. Autoimmune diseases have a tendency to occur together (ie. if you have grave’s disease, there’s a higher likelihood that you’ll have other autoimmune problems like reiter’s and RA.).

My advice is for you not to search too hard for some other cause of the hereditary MNG. It may be difficult for you to blame it all on genetics, but that’s the way it is.

Besides iodine, you should ask your doctor about other alternatives. Many centres in the world will offer a total thyroidectomy for MNGs that continue increasing in size, as there is a possibility that one of the nodules may turn malignant in the future. The downside of surgery is that you’ll have to be on thyroid replacement medication for life. On the other hand, radioactive iodine can sometimes make one more prone to cancer, and will also eventually lead to hypothyroidism and need for thyroid replacement.

Q: I am getting a total thyroidectomy for a goiter on the left side of my thyroid that may or not be cancerous.?
I’ve known about this disease since I was 15, and have been on Levoxyl/synthroid since. I’m really just wondering what to expect for someone of my age (19) after the surgery. All responses appreciated! Thanks.

A: Wow sweetie…thats awful…..I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism at age 15…the normal levels are supposed to be 0.4-5….mine was in the 170s…So they put me on synthroid (synthetic thyroid: meaning they made it in a lab)
I was on that for 5-6 years, then I heard about ARMOUR thyroid….its a natural thyroid extract from pigs…
I was on it for 3 months before I started getting signs that my thyroid was kicking back on…Under doctor supervision, I quit all medications…
Its been two years now and, due to an illness my thyroid level is at 5.2, which isn’t bad considering….

With all of the research I’ve done, I suggest you do some as well, I read that alot of times doctors will jump to conclusions with their diagnoses…
At 15, your thyroid is doing crazy sh#t anyway!!!YOUR GROWING!! the levels are going to be crazy!!!
If your doctor throws you on medication when the thyroid is acting irrational, the chemicals in the lab created pills will kill off any good thyroid thats left!!!

Do you eat the correct type of iodine? Thats the biggest cause of thyroid goiters and malfunctions….that and sodium….or salt…
Make sure to buy 100% sea salt (it has the sodium that is good for thyroid health)
Also seaweed, or kelp has the perfect amount of natural iodine which nurishes the thyroid….

And as always, diet change affects the thyroid as well as the whole body….
Remember “good goes in…good comes out…..bad goes in, and well, you get the idea”

Good luck and try these things before surgery, sometimes just a diet change can cause a goiter to go down, unless it is cancerous….
Don’t stress, that makes it worse…if you need any more help or just someone to listen to all of the worries you have let me know….I’ve dealt with the thyroid long enough!!!

Q: How long does it take to develop a goiter?
I was recently diagnosed with an autoimmune disease which resulted in a goiter (Hashimoto’s Disease). Does anyone know how long it would have taken for it to develop after being infected with an autoimmune disorder? My thyroid is 2-3 times larger than the normal size. How long has my goiter been developing? Months? Years?
Please, help. Thanks to everyone who answers.

I would reallllllllyyyyyyyyyyy like to know!

A: I had a goiter for about 5 years,from what i remembered my neck started swelling uop from nowhere when i was out with my friend and then it went down on its own again. However before the swelling i noticed major changes in my mood and craving for alot of food. I thought nothing of it…and a couple of weeks later the goiter finally formed and it was huge.long story short i controlled it with medicine and radioactiive but neither worked as my body threw out the radioactive. so ten days ago i finally decided to have surgery and removed my entire thyroid because i simply could not control it with mediciation anymore and taking herbs and natural remedies did not work for me either. i feel great after the surgery,my heart is not longer pounding,no more breaking out in hives etc. I found an excellent surgeon who did not destroy my voice and my calcium levels were a little low after the operation but its back to normal now. however if u get save ur thyroid n radioactive works for u,then great,surgery should be your last option for graves disease.

Q: graves disease, radioactive pill or surgery for thyroid?
I jus wanted to hear from those who had the radio active pill, and from those who had the thryoid surgery, which one is better. and if you could choose again, which one you would choose. im relying more to the surgery. but i wanted to hear from those who have gone thru this. i have a goiter and i am so tired of taking a bunch of medications. also, i wanted to know how the recovery was. thank you so much for the answers. appreciate it.

A: I had the radio active pill. Either way you’ll continue to be on meds because in most cases you’ll need a replacement hormone (like synthroid) once you had the RAI or the surgery. With the RAI (radio active idodine) you’ll need to live alone for about 3 days, use only disposal plates/forks (unless you have a dishwasher). It doesn’t hurt and I really wouldn’t say there is a “recovery time” you just can’t be close to people for 3 days because of the radiation in your body. And if you are planning on getting pregnant, you have to wait about 6 months. If you are pregnant, you can NOT have the radio active treatment. There is a mandatory pregnancy test before they will give you treatment.

With the surgery, you’ll have longer recovery time, plus the scar from the surgery (which fades pretty quickly… my sister just had it done). But she had to have the RAI after the surgery, so we was stuck with both.

Either way, good luck to you. Hope this helped.

hypothyroid disease

admin — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Read and learn more about hypothyroid disease. For more, visit the Thyroid Disease website ThyroidDiseaseWiki.com.

Q: Hypothyroid Disease ?
So i have Hypothyroid disease. i am 16 year old. only found out i had it in sept. my doctor told me to be careful about my throat because it will swell when im tired and will make me not be able to talk. well it has and its annoying. im an actress and singer. and i like talking, anyone with the same condition or anything that could help me with a remedy or something? cause it Really hurts!
Thanks:)
I Drink Tea And Stuff but still nothing helps!
okay, yes i am sure its Hypothyroid i know what it is. and i dont want my hair falling out! i have nice long flowing hair. i get terrbile migranes and all the other symptoms to. i have had several tests proveing its Hypothyroid so yes it is. i just want the loss of vocal to stop. so please any ideas???

A: Are you sure it is Hypothyroid? Hypothyroid stands for under-active thyroid, which the symptom’s are migraine’s, weight gain, fatigue, hair loss, and there are much more. I have never heard of swelling, but anything is possible. Anyways, yes, I do have it cause I had to have my thyroid removed due to cancer, so I no longer have one, which would be also considered under-active. I am on medication,synthroid, which totally controls the symptoms.
When I first had it removed, it took some time to get the medication right, and yes it was awful, my hair was falling out in clumps, and I had migraine’s so bad I could not open my eyes, let alone get out of bed.
Once the medication was right, I felt the same as I did before I had it removed. My hair, still is not the same, I did not go bald or anything, it is just not as thick as it use to be. But the headaches and the fatigue was gone.
Every once in awhile, I will start to have symptoms again, and I just go in for a blood test, and they will up or lower the meds.
Your symptoms should go away when your meds are regulated, and just as well as I you will know when you are not right, but make sure you contact a Dr. asap and don’t let it worsen.
Hope I was of some help, and Good Luck to you in your career!

Q: Any female With Hypothyroid Disease And is on birth control?
i have hypothyroid disease i am 17, and my periods are terrible, i have had my period for the past 3 months with only 18 hours of stopping at the most.
if there are any women who have Thyroid disease and take birth control, what did your doctor say? and what are you on?
i really need help with this.
Please
Thanks!!!
okay yeah i have synthoird. I am on it, thats not the problem.

A: Hi I am 18 and I have the same problem u do. I am on Birthcontrol called YAZ. My doctor said it was fine to be on, however I am also taking medicine for my thyroid called synthyroid. It is okay to be on birthcontrol at the sametime. If you are unsure, check the packet that should come with your birthcontol pills. If you shouldnt take it with ur thyroid, it will say do not use if you have a thyroid condition.
Thanks

Q: Does a low glycemic diet help hypothyroid disease?
I am hypothyroid (hashimotos) and have been having trouble keeping my hormones stable. I’ve heard that some people tell me a low glycemic diet helps manage the symptoms and helps them lose weight. Anyone have experience with this? To complicate things a little further I’m also a vegan so I eat a lot of whole grains, beans, veggies and fruits.

A: Are you testing your thyroid levels in the morning each and evert time? Thyroid testing should be done within an hour of waking, when metabolism is near its low point.

The best way to lose weight when hypothyroid is to have a TSH around 1.0 ifon T4 and be converting enough T4 to T3. On T4/T2 a free t4 or midrange and a free t3 high in range is needed. Thyroid levels are the number #1 way to begin the weight loss process.

As far as diet, reduce carbs and increase fiber. Avoid or limit soy and fluoride. Exercise for one hour at least 4-5 times a week.

Q: I have hypothyroid disease and I am trying to lose weight any Ideas for exercises that will work?
I have tried low calories and walking on a tread mill but nothing seems to work. Any help as to the healthiest way to lose weight and get healthy would be helpful.

A: First of all, get your thyroid hormone replaced – follow up with your doctor to make sure that hormone levels are where they should be. After that, it really is just about diet and exercise. Keep track of the calories (your doctor should tell you what your daily caloric intake requirement is – try not to exceed that limit), and then get out and MOVE! Try jogging on the treadmill – if that’s too hard on the knees, try an eliptical. Make lifestyle adjustments. Try walking or biking places instead of using the car. Make your weekend activities physical, such as going on a hike or a bike trip with some friends. Take a fun aerobics class that has ‘good energy’ that you like – there are lots of varieties ranging form kickboxing, to spinning, to step aerobics, to African dance. Try to get something athletic in 5-6 days a week – somethign that you wouldn’t ‘normally’ do. Don’t expect all the weight to come off immediately – try to make these changes, adn over the next couple months you should notice a difference.

Q: How does one suggest the dose of thyronorm for HYPOTHYROID disease?
One year back i’ve been diagnosed with hypothyroid with TSH LEVELS OF 6.00 and been prescribed with THYRONORM 25MCG…And after one year my TSH LEVELS are at 5.66 and other doctor have prescribed THYRONORM 75MCG….When the tsh levels actually decreased why i’m being prescribed with high dose of THYRONORM???

A: hypothyroid means TSH level are high
in this scenario your TSH earlier was 6 saying hypothyroid and put on 25 . now
ur TSH Is 5.66 means after taking medications also ur TSH is still on higher side so u need medication higher than this. As ideal TSH level is around 2.5 -3.5 so doctor has to increase medications to attian this level
Visit my website on information in ENt and Head and Neck Conditions: http://my.opera.com/prateeknayak/blog/

Q: Can hypothyroid disease cause cardio thrombosis?
I have hypothyroid disease which was being treated, but it got worse my doctor didn’t catch it even though I complained about all the symptons, not until my hair began to fall out then he increased my meds. I had a cardio gram test and now he tells me I have had heart attack, damage to the muscle between the pumps.

A: Yes. Both hypo- and hyperthyroid conditions can affect your heart.

Q: What are some potential dangers if someone with the hypothyroid disease does not take their medicine?
Or doesn’t take it consistently?

A: Um… how is death? Myxedema coma and death.

Q: My problem is that one Dr said that I have Hypothyroid disease and another said that I don’t.Help please.
My problem is that one Dr said that I have Hypothyroid disease and another said that I don’t. For 2 years I was on the medicine (Synthroid) and felt allot better. But now I have moved, have a new Dr (endocrinologist) and he said that I don’t have this disease and won’t give me the meds. I feel achy,get carpel tunnel in my wrists often, feel exhausted 90% of the time, have no libido, feel cold most of the time, and sometimes I have night sweats. I have almost no memory. I forget to look at lists to remind me of things that need to be done. I have barely any appetite, but am 100 lbs overweight. Sometimes, I am so exhausted that my words slur and I can’t even wash my hair without over exerting myself. I just had a knee surgery and have no energy to exercise even if I could. I have no clue what to do about the problem.

A: Usually once diagnosed with hypothyroidism, it’s for life. Your symptoms sure do sound like you are still hypothyroid. What I found about having this condition is you have to fight for the right to get the proper treatment. What I mean by this is that you need to learn about the condition, lab values, and varios medications and then seek out a doctor who will work with you to make you feel well again. If a doctor leaves you suffering, it’s time to move on to another doctor. I found family doctors are more understanding than endo’s. Most endos are too full of themselves. I was seeing one, but he would not let me try Armour simply because it came from pigs. I eventually dumped him and I’ve been on Armour for 4 years now and I feel better than I have in the last 10 years. Armour helps with muscle and joint aches, so that might be a good option for you, unless of course these symptoms were helped with the Synthroid. Links below for you to learn. Good luck!

Q: What do you recommend taking naturally if you have Hypothyroid Disease and don’t want to take a prescription?

A: If you want something natural, switch to Armour thyroid. More and more people are switching because it helps with symptoms that T4 just doesn’t help with. It’s probably because many people have difficulty converting T4 into T3 and Armour contains both T4 and T3. Armour’s website below

I am hypothyroid and I use Armour. It has relieved most of my symptoms

Q: has anyone had a perm that fell out due to hypothyroid disease?
i have very long very straihgt hair. I really wanted a new look so i decided to get a loose perm [waves] . i loved it!! It fell out after 4 days. a friend told me it could be because i have thyroid disease. Has this happened to anyone else? should i try it again and leave it in longer?

A: I would not assume you have a disease until you go to a doctor.

I was a hairdresser for 14 years. There are a lot of reasons perms don’t take well – and deposits in the hair and disease can affect the quality of the hair and its ability to take a curl.

Another factor is the type of solution that was used. Some perms just don’t produce a strong curl – sometimes a stronger solution can work better for some hair. Some are cold-process, and some go under heat. There are some that go under heat that are notoriously weak.

One more factor is what you have been shampooing and conditioning with. If you have used a conditioner with certain waxes in it, the hair can’t be penetrated by the solution and won’t fully process. Such a conditioner can also cause the curl to straighten.

An additional factor is the actual structure of the hair itself in the mid-shaft to ends. Due to mechanical damage, the cuticle layer can be stripped off, leaving insufficient structure to hold a curl.

One last factor is the size rods used, and how the hair is wrapped on them, in addition to ensuring the solution penetrates properly. Special care must be taken to ensure that not too much hair goes on each rod, so that the structure of curl is uniform. The weight of long hair can relax a too-loose perm.

I would be very careful about redoing your perm right away due to the possibility of breakage and over processing. Go get checked by a doc if you have a concern about disease. Make sure you are using good product on your hair – products that will not cause silicone or wax buildup. Make sure before perm is redone that your hair has been well-cleaned to strip waxes away, and has a recent history of being well-conditioned.

Let a trusted professional do it – you get what you pay for.

Q: Foods to help with hypothyroid disease?
After a 20 lb weight gain in 2 months I am BACK on synthroid 25 mg. I was on 75 mg in the past, but we are trying 25 mg and seeing what happens.

I know I am supposed to avoid soy right?

Any foods I can eat to aid with the weight loss and feeling better?

A: I’m on Synthroid myself. If your taking a multivitamin with iron don’t take it at the same time as your Synthroid. It keeps your body from absorbing your thyroid pill. I would try taking B12 supplements. It helps me. I definately have more energy. The more energy- the more you move- the more calories you burn.

Q: dieting with hypothyroid disease?
I have hypothyroid and finally have my levels under control, has anyone had any good results with a certain kind of diet and this problem. Thanks for your help!

A: Are you really sure that your levels are right? Just being in range is not enough, especially when you are trying to lose weight. Basically if on T4, you need the TSH (morning reading only) to be around 1.0. If its above 2.0 weight loss will be almost impossible. Your metabolism is never the same as it was, even on meds so you need to get the levels right, watch diet, and exercise at least 4 times a week.

As far as diet, reduce carbs and increase fiber. Limit or avoid soy.

If your morning TSH has been around 1.0 for a long time and you are still having problems it may be because you are not converting enough T4 into T3. To find this out, get a free t3 test. If its below midrange you may be helped by a T4/T3 med like Armour or Thyrolar.

Link to thyroid diet forum below

I am hypothyoid and on Armour thyroid. I feel great! I di not lose weight with meds, diet and exercise. This was because I developed insulin resistance from the weight I gained while hypo. Once on metformin ER to treat the insulin resistance weight loss was easier with diet and exercise.

Q: does anyone have any good tips for losing wieght even with Hashimoto’s disease? (Hypothyroid)?
I am of course doing the usual diet and excercize routines for weight loss but I am looking for tips specific to Hashimoto’s and Hypothyroid.

A: “Dieting” is not necessarily the right thing to do for your condition. You have to avoid goitrogenic foods (do a search on this for more info), and especially stay away from soy. It is poison for the thyroid!

Q: Infertility and Hypothyroid disease?
I’m 16 and a month ago i was told i have hypothyroid disease, now this might seem weired to some people but i was wondering if anyone with hypothyroid has gotten pregnant and had a successfull birth? My thyroid is completely dead, and i just wanted to know cause i do someday want kids. anyone in the same position help would be nice!
thank you!

A: have them test your fertility now to make sure the thyroid disease hasn’t done any permanent damage to it since it had been untreated until now. if you are clear of problems now, the only thing you have to worry about is maintenance. take your medicine every day and get your thyroid hormone levels tested regularly. if you start feeling a little off, go get some blood work done… regardless of when your next testing should be. you will get better at recognizing when your levels are not normal.

if you can keep your thyroid hormone at a normal level, you should have as good a chance as anyone to have kids whenever you want. just keep your health up and be proactive about it now that you know you have hypothyroidism… that’s the best way to ensure that you will be able to get pregnant later.

after getting pregnant, hypothyroidism will make things a little more complicated, but it’s still do-able.

Q: I have hypothyroid disease and have had it for 6 yrs…?
I got it after I gave birth to my daughter. I had a bad pregnancy and a hard 56 hr labor with a lot of complications, this being one of the after effects. I started gaining weight and the doctor did all kinds of test on me before finding out it was hypothyroid disease. Everytime I try to take my synthroid I end up stopping because it makes me bleed..like a period …all the time and a lot. My doctor said its because the med is trying to regulate through my body and it can take up to 6 weeks. Ive never taken it that long thoug because I dont want the constant bleeding..and I am trying to conceive…cant do that with all the bleeding. Thyroid disease effects your metabolism and hormones. Does this happen to anyone else on thryroid medications? Im 25 if that helps anyone. Also I have irregular periods due to ovarian cysts and just getting off the depo shot after 6 years. When I dont take my med I dont have regular periods but as soon as I take it I bleed within 2 days. Any thoughts?

A: I have Graves Disease and am post Throidectomy with hypothyroidism for 4 years. I have never heard of bleeding caused from Synthyroid. I would definitely get a second opinion based on your background of depo shots and ovarian cysts. I have become an advocate for those with Thyroid Disease based on the roller coaster ride that the Thyroid can cause. I have supported many people with hypo and hyperthyroidism and this is the first time I have heard of this. Please seek a second opinion. Also, at what strength of Synthyroid was begun. The Thyroid is a very intricate organ that is sensitive to medications. Get help now.

hyperthyroid disease

admin — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Read and learn more about hyperthyroid disease. For more, visit the Thyroid Disease website ThyroidDiseaseWiki.com.

Q: Hyperthyroid disease…?
I’ve encountered so many friends and relatives who developed hyperthyroid disease especially when they migrated from tropical country to cold regions. I’m wondering anyone who encounter like this before….?? Why?

A: I’ve never heard of a connection bewteen hyperthyroid and change in climate, probably just a coincidence.

Q: Why am I having symptoms of hyperthyroid disease?
Why am I having the symptoms of hyperthyroid disease, when I had my right thyroid gland removed 30 years ago, because of a tumor.? Altho, I have mentioned to my doctor the possibility, that I might have another tumor on the left thyroid gland, he doesn’t seem to listen and is treating me for other things he thinks might be causing these horrible symptoms. In the meantime, I’m in misery.

A: go see another doctors you should never trust just one doctor they want you to keep coming back to them so they can collect that money

Q: What is the difference between the hyperthyroid disease and the thyroid carcinoma?

A: GREETINGS, hyperthyroidism is that your thyroid is working too fast and usually people are very thin, cold, hungry but don’t gain weight easy and it can be fatal if not treated, thyroid cancer can do the same thing, the same symptoms but the cancer is a growth on the thyroid, nodule or tumor, that causes the thyroid to not function right, and sometimes when and if the growth can be removed without removing the thyroid itself, you will revert back to normal. If they remove the thyroid due to cancer, then you will be on meds for life as you will be come hypothyroid.

Q: What is Hyperthyroid and Graves Disease?
How many of you have hyperthyroid and grave disease? what type of medication are you taking? I am taking EVOTHYROXINE 0.25MG.

Please share with me what are you’ve gone through. i was hospitalize for over a week. I was also treated for Graves disease.

What should i do and not to do? like eating and drinking and so on.

Thank you all in advance.

A: Hyperthyroidism / Graves’ Disease / Overactive Thyroid Condition
Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disease that can cause overactivity of the thyroid — a condition known as hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism can also result from toxic nodules, certain medications and supplements, and temporary viral infections of the thyroid, among other causes. Here is a listing of the many resources available here at the site that focus on Graves’ disease and hyperthyroidism, as well as related issues including thyroid storm, Graves ophthalmopathy, radioactive iodine (RAI) treatment, stress, cigarette smoking, antithyroid drugs like PTU and methimazole, thyroidectomy, and thyroid arterial embolization.

Graves’ Disease and Hyperthyroidism 101
Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disease that can cause overactivity of the thyroid — a condition known as hyperthyroidism. Here is a listing of the many resources available here at the site that focus on Graves’ disease and hyperthyroidism, as well as related issues including thyroid storm, Graves ophthalmopathy, radioactive iodine (RAI) treatment, stress, cigarette smoking, antithyroid drugs like PTU and methimazole, thyroidectomy, and thyroid arterial embolization.
What causes hyperthyroidism?
FAQ frequently asked questions autoimmune thyroid condition Graves’ disease overactive thyroid hyperthyroidism tests diagnosis drugs treatment medications
What is hyperthyroidism?
Frequently asked questions about the autoimmune thyroid condition Graves’ disease and an overactive thyroid, known as hyperthyroidism. Information, including tests, diagnosis, treatment, medications, and other issues are discussed. This FAQ on Graves’ disease and hyperthyroidism was developed by patient advocate Mary Shomon, bestselling author of Living Well With Graves’ Disease and Hyperthyroidism.
Kelly Osbourne Reveals Thyroid Problem is Cause of Rapid Weight Loss
Kelly Osbourne, 22, pop star and daughter of legendary Black Sabbath metal rocker/ditzy reality tv dad Ozzy Osbourne, has revealed that her weight loss of almost 30 pounds due to an untreated thyroid condition.
What You Need to Know About Thyroid Storm
Some people with Graves’ disease or hyperthyroidism — an overactive thyroid that is producing too much thyroid hormone — develop a potentially life-threatening condition known as thyroid storm. Find out about the risks, symptoms and treatments for this rare, but dangerous condition, from patient advocate and author Mary Shomon.

Cigarette Smoking Linked to Overactive Thyroid
According to research just published this month, women who smoke have double the risk of developing hyperthyroidism due to Graves’ disease.
Common Questions on Hyperthyroidism
Three-part, indepth in-depth Frequently Asked Questions / FAQ on hyperthyroidism and Graves’ Disease.
Graves’ Disease /Hyperthyroidism Checklist
A checklist of risk factors and symptoms to use in getting or finetuning your hyperthyroidism.
How to Tell If You Are Hyperthyroid
Step-by-step guidelines on how to tell if you are hyperthyroid.
Panic Attacks and Palpitations: Signs of Hyperthyroidism?
A look at the symptoms of panic attack, and whether they are due to hyperthyroidism, heart problems, or panic disorder.
Alternative Treatments for Hyperthyroidism
John Johnson’s site focuses on nutritional solutions to hyperthyroidism, and how to avoid RAI and anti-thyroid drugs when possible.

Q: I have a hyperthyroid disease can i still drink alcohol?
can i still drink beer and other liquors?

A: Some people just have to drink alcohol no matter what!!! I don’t see how drinking alcohol will affect your thyroid one way or the other, unless your undergoing treatment for it, then I would check with the doctor.

Q: Who has successfully used diet, exercise and natural remedies for hyperthyroid – graves disease?
I have been diagnosed after the birth of my first child 6 years ago with graves disease I have been medicated, taking carbimazole, for 3 years and was all good for the 2 years that followed but it has flaired up again. I have had enough of carbimazole and want to find out if any one has successfully tried a natural remedy. I have checked out a couple of EBook but the cost for these books is huge.

A: I have Graves Disease too. I’ve been on PTU for around three years. My T3 T4 TSH numbers are ok, but I’ve had a few bouts of atrial fibrillation. These lasted for 24-48 hours then stopped. I wish I could help, but I’m looking for a solution too. I don’t like the idea of radioactive iodine…so I’m hoping that long-term anti thyroid drugs will give the thyroid a chance to burn itself out. The only thing I can suggest is to eat lots of green leafy vegetables and soy…..they can have an impact on the thyroid hormone production. Best wishes.
Forgot to say….try to get a copy of ‘The Thyroid Solution’ by Dr Ridha Arem (an endicronologist)….should be available at most bookshops…..worth a read.

Q: Can you have hyperthyroid disease but gain weight instead of lose it?
I’ve just been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, and all the symptoms fit except for the massive (and rapid) weight gain. My doc sounds stumped….is it possible? Or could we be overlooking something else?

A: no, that is hypothyroidism.

Q: Hyperthyroid Disease – can i still lift weight and workout at the gym like normal people do?
(some of you might have read my questions already) I have a Hyperthyroid Disease and i am wondering if i can still go to gym and do normal workout like normal people do. i was hospitalized for over a week for hyperthyroid and graves disease. i had the radioactive treatment done and now i am under LEVOTHYROXINE 0.25MG. i’ve been under this medication for almost two years now. i do get follow up with thyroid specialist every 6 months. before i was diegnosed with thyroid i go to gym 3 to 4 times a week. reason i quit the gym cuz i would get muscle cramp when i workout. my abs would cramp up when i do sit up. my legs and my side would cramp up also. to make the long story short, that’s how i found out i had thyroid. oh, for no reason i would colapse, i couldnt walk and i would calapse on the floor for no reason. couldnt feel my leg or move. i had to go to emergency room and that was how i found out i had hyperthyroid. so, can i go back to the gym…. run out of space… sorry.

A: You should talk to a doctor first because how you have to modify your workout may be different than you might think. Make sure after you start woking out you are at the doctor’s getting regular check ups as well. Just make sure you keep track of your heart rate and try not to get too hot. Walking is a great exercise and might be the best for you.

Q: If a mother has hyperthyroid, graves disease and low iron while she is pregnant?
what are her chances of having a healthy baby. This person never seek medical attention till she was already in her 3 trimester. And her hypothyroid has gotten really bad. Will her baby be healthy? Or will the baby have health problems?

thanks in advance!

A: no way of telling….that why prenatal care is so important. I would go with whatever the medical professional said during the 3rd trimester visit

Q: Could a vet tell me what to feed my cat on a tumor and hyperthyroid disease?

A: Let me share with you what I have learned about feline nutrition to help you make an informed decision on what diet you should feed your cats.

Many brands of manufactured cat foods claiming to be “healthy” really are not. In fact they are made of the lowest ingredients possible. I’m not saying that a cat can’t live off them… just the same as you could live off hot dogs and Mac and cheese forever, but better choices can and should be made for your feline friends. I would not venture to say that any manufactured food is “best” for a cat but a grain free organic wet food would be a good start. Feeding canned is certainly better than feeding dry in all cases.

Cats were never meant to eat dry food, also known as cereals or kibble. We, humans, make them eat it for convenience to us. It has nothing to do with them or their nutritional needs. It’s completely species inappropriate.

In the wild, cats derive their entire liquid intake from their prey. They do not have a thirst mechanism because they don’t need it when eating a species appropriate diet. They get all they need from what they eat. So they do not drink water. Regular ol’ house cats have descended from those same wild cats.

So in a home environment, your kitty does not get the moisture it needs from dry food and it’s almost always in a constant state of dehydration. Water fountains are encouraged to TRY to get your cat to drink more and your kitty may even enjoy it, but it will never meet its water intake needs drinking from a bowl.

Deadly feline illnesses such as diabetes, kidney failure, obesity, stones, urinary tract blockages and Urinary Tract Infections (FLUTD), with and without deadly crystals run rampant these days. Cats are not taking in enough water to stave them off. Proper water intake through a species appropriate diet alone can prevent most of these conditions.

Overall, wet is a better all around better for any cats diet, be it canned or Raw and they should never be fed dry cereal kibble if we wish to most closely match their wild nutritional and dietary needs. Kibble meets our needs… not our cats.

It is also bogus that kibble cleans teeth. DRY FOOD DOES NOT CLEAN TEETH. It’s an old myth that has been scientifically disproved for years, but old-school vets drilled it into people’s heads for so long (and sadly still do) that people still believe it. Cats can not “chew”. They do not have chewing teeth. They have meat ripping pointy carnivorous teeth. They do not have molars. They may “crunch” a piece of food once to crack and break it… but they are absolutely unable to chew a hard piece if food. Want your cat to have clean teeth? Give them an appropriately sized raw bone. )

I personally feed a Raw Meat and Bones based diet to my cats and they are very healthy on it. I HIGHLY recommend it. Once I got the hang of it and felt comfortable with it it’s a snap to prepare. It’s something you might want to consider someday. They are obligate carnivores after all and must derive ALL their nutrients from meat based sources. They are unable to absorb them from any other source. Despite thousands of years of domestication they remain strictly carnivorous. True and honest meat eaters and that is what they need most. Protein from meat!

If you are interested in feeding a raw diet some great places to start learning are http://www.catinfo.org/ , http://www.catnutrition.org/ , and http://www.felinefuture.com/nutrition/ .

If you would like to try raw with your cats and don’t want to get all technical about it but want to try a trusted, time tested and balanced raw diet you can order from http://www.felinespride.com/products/catfood.aspx . I purchased this myself when I first started and my cats loved it!

If raw is not an option for you please be aware that there are three Categories of Pet Foods:

-”Grocery store” foods – (Generic Brands and cheap name brands) Those foods found in grocery stores and mass-market retailers are made with lower-quality, less-digestible, inexpensive ingredients and are therefore a cheaper alternative. While easy on the pocketbook, “grocery store” foods normally do not provide your cat with the healthiest, most nutrient-dense ingredients.

-Premium foods – (Iams/Eukanuba, Purina One, Hills Science Diet, Nutro and such) Foods often found in grocery stores, pet stores, and veterinarian offices that contain higher-grade ingredients, but still include many elements of “grocery store” food, such as artificial colors, artificial flavors, chemical preservatives, and “filler” ingredients such as corn and wheat products, by-products and even animal digest. Yuck! Premium foods are usually more expensive than “grocery store” foods because their ingredients are sometimes of a higher quality, and are therefore somewhat more beneficial and digestible. But don’t be fooled, some of those same so called Premium brands are sometimes worse than grocery store foods, but they charge prices like they are better. They aren’t!

-Healthy foods – (Wellness, Merrick, Eagle Pack, Drs Foster & Smith) The newest addition to the pet food market – provide pets with the highest quality, healthiest, and most nutritious ingredients. They are typically available for purchase online or direct from the manufacturer. Some better retailers are starting to carry them now. Complete Petmart carries a few healthy brand foods. Foods in the Healthy class contain nutrient-rich ingredients. Formulated to provide optimum health benefits for pets, these foods often use real meat as the primary protein source, carbohydrate-rich whole grains like brown rice and barley and whole, fresh fruits and vegetables. They should not contain artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors. They will almost always be fortified with additional vitamins and minerals, and will use the best natural sources for fatty acids to help build healthy skin and a beautiful coat. Because healthy foods use high quality ingredients, you should expect to pay a little more than you would for other types of pet food. Remember, though, with healthy foods you can feed less since healthy foods are more nutrient-dense than other types of food so it often evens out or cost’s les than feeding foods filled with cheap non-nutritional by-products fillers.

With all that information in mind, when you are choosing a new cat food, study the ingredients. All ingredients on pet food labels are listed by weight. Meaning whatever ingredients are listed first on the list, there is more in there. The first ingredients listed should be whole meat ingredients, protein sources, such as Chicken or Turkey. NOT just the word “meat”! Who the heck knows what that is? The word Chicken Meal is ok, but it should be a secondary ingredient, not first. Meal is the meat dehydrated and ground into a powder.

The ingredients also should NOT include any by-products or animal digest whatsoever. Those are disgusting left over animal parts that are scraped off the filthy floors of meat and poultry plants. They should just go into the trash but they put them into pet food instead. EW!!!! Also make sure there are no artificial colors or flavors. And make sure there is no BHA and BHT used preservatives. These preservatives have been shown to cause cancer in both cats and dogs. Bad Bad stuff and it’s in almost every cat treat on the market.

So, in summery of the ingredients… if you see the words by-products, Animal Digest, the word “meat” alone, Corn, Corn Gluten, Wheat Gluten, or BHA or BHT… stop reading, put down that product and move on to the next.

Be aware that when switching to a Healthy, Holistic or Organic food, you will pay for what you get. Good foods are not cheap. They are pricey and will cost you more than cheaper products, just like steak costs more than hotdogs. But again, you will be feeding a better food and improving the over all health of your pet. This in turn leads to less vet visits for illness now and more importantly later in life in their geriatric years. You will also feed less of this food on a per animal basis because a smaller amount of food contains what your cat needs. Overall healthy wet foods are well worth it, if only for the piece of mind that the ingredients are better for your cat than cheap crap.

You can start your research for a healthy cat food here if you are not ready to try feeding a Raw diet:

http://www.onlynaturalpet.com

If you want to buy in a store, Complete Petmart is a good store and carries quite a few natural, organic, and holistic blends. Also check with your local feed/grain stores.

I highly recommend you take the time to research for yourself, but the information I have given should get you off to a good start. Good luck choosing a new healthy food!

********IMPORTANT*******Don’t forget to switch your Pets food slowly over a period of 10 to 14 days, if you can. Mixing 25% new to 75% old. Then 50/50… then 75% new to 25% old. And finally switch over to 100% new. Take it slow as not to upset their digestive system.

Side note… Please don’t feed Iams / Eukanuba. It’s ALL fillers, byproducts, animal digest and CRAP. Read the ingredients! There is nothing good for your cat in that food. Not to mention they conduct the most appalling animal testing you have ever seen. http://www.iamscruelty.com to see the terror they create.

Q: what does hyperthyroid disease have to do with congestive heart failure?

A: Hyperthyroidsm can cause high output heart failure. It can also worsen preexisting heart failure by the increased metabolic demand.

Q: What is the difference between Graves Disease and Hyperthyroid?

A: Hyperthyroidism is one SYMPTOM of Grave’s disease. Granted, it is the most common, main symptom. But it’s still only one symptom.

You can have hyperthyroidism without Grave’s disease.

You can also have Grave’s disease without hyperthyroidism, although that’s kind of rare. Grave’s disease can attack the eyes, the skin, and other areas besides the thyroid.

Q: How do you develop hyperthyroid disease?

A: The pituitary may secrete to much thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH),

An antibody to the thyroid mimics the activity of TSH

Nodules in the thyroid start secreting hormone without control from the pituitary. (Single nodule = adenoma; multiple nodules = goiter).

Q: I i have hyperthyroid disease can i still go to gym and do the normal workout?
thank you.

A: It depends on what part of treatment you are in…
I was hyperthyroid and then took RAI to kill my thyroid and now I take synthroid the rest of my life.
If your hyperthyroidism is not under control you definitely should take it easy, it puts a lot of pressure on your heart and gone undiagnosed can cause a heart attack. Because it speeds up everything in your body, digestion, metabolism, nervous system and your heart.
I would not do it if I were you.

Q: Any childrens books on hyperthyroid and/or graves disease?
My stepdaughter was just diagnosed with a hyperthyroid and graves disease. She is 11 years old and is pretty confused, and I was wondering if anyone knows of any books that are actually FOR kids on these issues?

A: I’m sorry about your stepdaughter, it must be a difficult thing for her to go through. The only children’s book I could find that wasn’t just about the endocrine system in general was about the Olympic track runner Gail Devers, who was diagnosed with Graves’ disease when she was in her early 20’s. One out of the 7 chapters in her 93 page biography is about Graves’ disease. The author of this specific book is Richard Worth, and the title is “Gail Devers: Overcoming Adversity.” Publisher is Chelsea House, 2002, ISBN 0791063054. I’d check with your local public library first — even if they don’t have it, they should be able to borrow it from another library for you.

Good luck with this.

thyroid disease hair loss

admin — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Read and learn more about thyroid disease hair loss. For more, visit the Thyroid Disease website ThyroidDiseaseWiki.com.

Q: Thyroid Disease and Hair Loss?
I have had an underactive thyroid for about 13 years. I’am now 25 and my thyroid dosage was just increased a little over a month ago because I now have type 1 diabetes and high cholestorol. For about the past week my hair has been falling out in clumps. I read the side effects and it said hair loss within the first few months. But does anyone know how long it usually lasts?

A: Hair loss isn’t a side effect of any thyroid medication that I know of.

Hair loss is however one of the main symptoms of hypothyroidism. Perhaps your medication needs to be increased even further. You need to have blood tests at least every 6 weeks until you get this sorted out, and you are stable and symptom free. Then you can cut back on the blood tests again, slowly, down to about every 6 months or so.

Q: have you used evening primrose oil for hair loss from thyroid disease?
did it help? thank you.

A: Hello. I have lost almost all of my hair from having hypothyroidism. I have tried every vitamin, eating more protein, taking natural thyroid medication, instead of synthetic, and nothing has ever helped it. I lose handfuls of hair every day, and none of it has ever grown back. When i was first diagnosed, all the doctors i seen assured me i wouldn’t lose all my hair, and that it would grow back. They were very wrong, and I don’t trust doctors anymore at all. Losing my hair had devastated me to the point of not wanting to live anymore. Hy heart goes out to anybody that has to go through losing their hair. It’s worth it to at least try anything you can to stop it. Good Luck.

Q: I had untreated thyroid disease for almost a year and lost most of my hair. Can I write off a transplant?
I am a salesman and an actor, and I have a large scar on my head that is now exposed bc of the hair loss.

A: If you are disfigured or require corrective surgury due to another medical condition, then the cost of medical treatment to restore your looks is also a medical expense. So you could deduct the hair transplant as a medical expense on Schedule A, if your total medical expenses exceed 75% of your income.

Richard K
Master Tax Advisor
HR Block

This advice was prepared based upon the law in effect at the time it was written as it applies to facts provided by you. See my profile for more information.

Q: Thyroid disorders and hair loss. What is common and does anything help?
I was diagnosed with Graves disease early this year and underwent the radiation treatment for the disease. Now that they are adjusting my medicine I am finding that my hair is falling out a lot. They say that there are certain shampoos out there that help. Does anyone have any advice to prevent the hairloss?

A: i have that problem. i was tested for Lupas and Thyroid Disease. and i was fine. but then checked for low Iron and found out i have Anemia and that was the problem. i take Iron pills and a Multi-vitamin pill everyday.

eat healthy and take a multi-vitamin.
get good sleep also.

Q: Hashimoto’s Disease and hair loss?
I have had an underactive thyroid for about 5 years now and it has for the past 4 and a half years been regualted. But 6 months ago, my hair started falling out in clumps among other things. Just last week I finally found out I have anti-bodies that are killing my thyroid (causing the Hashimoto’s) so my synthroid has been increased. I am wondering if anyone know’s how long your thyroid has to be regualted again before my hair stops falling out?

A: I have to agree that you can’t expect your results to be the same as another’s. Your response once your levels are stabilized will vary. It could be a matter of weeks or even months. Your thyroid levels could stabilize and the hair loss could continue. Give the Synthroid increase a chance and if you don’t see more favorable results, speak to your endo about switching to Armour. Some have had very good results with it.

Q: Hair loss, doctors stumped, daughter has it too!?
I’ve always had a small amount of hair loss. I’ve had dozens of tests since I was a child but no definitive answer. I’ve been diagnosed with a thyroid disease for the last ten years and now my hair loss is worse even with thyroid supplements. Now my daughter, who is almost ten, is also experiencing some hair loss. Her hair is thick and long, though. Mine used to be but has now thinned to where I hate it and no hair cut looks good. Any comments, ideas, similar stories?

A: Thyroid conditions and thyroid medications can cause hair loss. If your hair is falling fairly evenly from all over your scalp, it is called telogen effluvium. Because there are so many possible causes, other factors may be involved. Possibilities include low ferritin levels or other nutritional imbalance, hormonal changes, vaccination, extreme diet and weight loss, infection, illness, candidiasis albicans, exposure to toxins or allergens, extreme stress or major life change. Because it is happening to both you and your daughter you may want to look into any possible environmental factor that might be affecting both of you. After losing most of my hair at age 32, I used essential oil scalp massage as a successful re-growth remedy. They are very effective for most hair loss conditions. More info is available at the site below.

Q: hair thinning / thyroid PLEASE HELP?
hello i think i got that thyroid disease can anyone please tell me what it is and can anyone tell me that after it is treated will by hair become thicker? i am currently experiancing hair loss and thinning of hair. My diet is also quite poor can anyone tell me how too improve my diet?

A: hi >go to your local health shop and buy some sea kelp tablets they really do work!
Sea Kelp is a natural source of vitamins and minerals and help with general good health and hair growth

Sea Kelp has been used in connection with the following conditions:

Hypothyroidism
Other Thyroid problems
Attention deficit–hyperactivity disorder (to prevent ADHD in the children of pregnant women consuming an iodine-deficient diet)
Iodine deficiency
as for your diet try to eat plenty of fruit and veg, fish ,chicken etc
3 meals a day
dont miss out meals
exercise
and 8 glasses of water a day if you can manage that
good luck xx

Q: Medical help about a thyroid disease?
My mom has an overactive thyroid. Almost everyone on my moms side has some sort of thyroid issue. I have been suffering from mild hair loss and bad acne. I never had acne before. I have been suffering urinary problems as well. I had a UTI that then from antibiotics turned to a yeast infection. Now still having problmes. GOt a urine test today and i have High PH and High Proteins. Can any of this be related?

A: All you have to do is get a simple blood test to check your thyroid numbers. It’s easily treatable in most cases. Hair loss is a symptom of thyroid problems, but I don’t think acne is.

Q: Have you tried anything that works to reverse hair loss?
I was devastated by a dramatic change in my hair probably related to heredity, hormones and sudden onset of thyroid disease. Not only did tons of my hair fall out, but the remaining hair had no body & was horribly flat & limp. Then it occurred to me to do my own research/experiments. So, the question is, has anyone out there had any luck with herbs, supplements, essential oils, etc., in reversing hair loss. If so, I would love to hear what is working for you & whether the results are small, medium or large. I have no interest in commercial remedies – been there, done that (except hair plugs) and the results are very disappointing at best. Thank you!
I tried Minoxidil with very pathetic results. Thanks to everyone who responded & to those who may respond later. Thank you.

A: I’ve been using saw palmetto as a tea, 1000mg of pure pumpkin seed oil in gelatin pill form and nettle leaf as a tea also.
I’ve been staying away from shampoos that contain a certain chemical (I’ll check on it later after someone gets out of the shower).
In otherwords i use an all natural shampoo from aulbrey called swimmers shampoo every few days.

I don’t have real chronic hair loss, but after doing this for a month now…I do see decent results. Though i want to keep doing this even further to see how much hair i can gain back.

Q: How late can Post-partum Hair loss occur??? Help please??
I am 27 years old and had my first baby 15 months ago. I breast fed for 7 months. For the last three weeks suddenly my hair has been shedding in indescribable amounts. Seriously, mounds and mounds of hair in the shower and sink every time I wash my hair. Washing my hair has become a certified “event” and I am crying even before I set foot in the shower. Thankfully, no bald patches yet and none of my friends or husband can see any change. I was diagnosed with thyroid disease seven years ago, and have been taking medication every day of my life ever since. I have it checked regularly and during my pregnancy everything was fine. I’ve been to my physician, and a dermatologist, had tons of blood lab work, and no one can give me any answers except for “post-partum stress”. Here’s the problem. Nothing traumatic has happened in my life, being a new mommy is great, and I don’t feel abnormally stressed out! I’m not overly tired and I am not working. So, my thoughts are that I could be experiencing post-partum hair loss just a little late in the game. I have spent hours online researching and every one says the hair loss occurs between 3-6 months after baby is born. My son just turned 15 months. Is this possible???
I need some answers so I can at least try and treat the problem.

A: Prior to my pregnancy, I’d lose fistfuls of hair in the shower and while drying and styling my hair. One of the things I loved about pregnancy and nursing was that I stopped this shedding. A couple of months after I stopped nursing, it resumed, and it seemed much more significant than before. I swore I was seeing “bald spots,” but, in retrospect, it was just me being over-reactive. If you feel well and the doctors say you’re well, I wouldn’t worry too much. I imagine that your breastfeeding postponed this a bit for you (as it did for me). If there’s anything that I learned from being pregnant, nothing is “normal.” The 3 – 6 month window is the most common range; it’s just not yours.

Q: thyroid disease (hypo) and methimazole medication?
I have been diagnosed with thyroid disease and my doctor prescribed the medication ( methimazole) so that it can regulate the thyroid. Before I lost weight and had nervous reactions, heart pulpitations and total hair loss in oneplace. After started taking methimazole everything went somewhat back to normal. However this medicine is making me loose my hair at least half of my hair is gone and keeps falling out. I read the side effects and it says its hair loss etc. I have hair loss and some dizziness. My doctor lowered my dosage from 10 mg to 5 mg but it keeps falling out. What can I do to stop this? I don’t want to loose all my hair and I can’t stop taking the medicine. Help….

A: u can go for radioactive iodine to control your hyper thyroidism and stop all medications if u become euthyroid..and if in case u become hypothyroid u can take synthyroid after it doesnt cause hair falling.go to your doctor and discuss with him the option of radioactive iodine

Q: I think I have a thyroid problem/disease!?
Okay, this may sound a gross, but my question is serious and I’m scared! I seem to have an abnormal excess of earwax so I Googled it and I came to Thyroid-Disease.org.uk
Looking at the symptoms, I noticed I have several of them and been to the doctors on many: Low body temp
Allergies
Intolerance to cold/heat
Heart palpitations
Dizzy Spells
Loss of Appetite
Joint/muscle Pain
Trembling muscles
Weight Gain
Extreme Tiredness
Hair Loss
Dry Mouth on waking
Brittle/ridged nails
Frequency of urination
Broken sleep
Lack of motivation
Constipation
Jumpy
Intolerance to loud noises
3pm crash
Difficulty swallowing
Sensations of lump in throat
Mood swings
Nightmares/weird dreams
dry eyes
morning headaches
sore throat
puffy neck
severe menstrual cramps

I have even more of these and I haven’t to the doctors as often as I should. Recently I was diagnosed with Depression and I’m on meds. I had 2 a blood test done; can you tell if you have a thyroid problem by blood test? What should I do? I am 19.

A: Depression is one of the symptoms of being hypothyroid. When you do see your doctor have them run a Free T4, Free T3, TSH, TPO, Ferritin (iron), Adrenal function tests and even check your sex hormones. All these things work inconjuction to help your body convert thyroid hormones. I’ve had depression myself as I was going hypothyroid. I ended up having a total thryoidectomy for other reasons but one of the issues I’ve struggled with is depression before and after the surgery. It has taken a while for the thryoid medication to work but I am feeling less and less depressed all the time. I’ll post a great web site for you to check out about the thyroid and depression. I wish you well

Q: hypothyroidism and hair loss: is there a way to stop hair loss associated with Hashimoto’s disease? Also,?
what do you think is the best brand of thyroid medication–no ‘health/herb’ treatments please. My case is too severe for that.

A: I agree with you that herbal and nutritional treatments are a waste of money. Hypothyroidism is a hormone based immune system disease requiring medical care–it is not just “stress!” When I read your question, I was hoping you might get some helpful answers since I have the same problem.
I’ve tried a variety of shampoos, conditioners, herbal, and other nutritional mumbo-jumbo, to no avail.
I’m assuming that you, like me, eat a healthy diet. I hope you get an answer that gives more information than just a link to yet another hebal . . site.
Don’t you wish people would read your question before giving answers you don’t want?

Q: Hair loss?
I don’t have any bald spots or anything but I’ve been losing a LOT of hair lately, probably from combination stress and thyroid disease. I’ve just noticed that it falls out in massive proportions and it’s thinned out quite a bit. I was just wondering if anyone knows of any good hair restoration products that really work. Please let me know of your experiences and recommendations. All answers are greatly appreciated.

A: Hi Ashley, the best way to deal with your problem is to treat the root cause of your hair loss problem. If it is due to hypothyroidism, then proper treatment of that underactive thyroid usually solves the problem. You can get more info on thyroidism and also tips on curing hair loss from this easy to navigate site:

http://www.hairlossmentor.com/

Have a nice day.

Q: Thyroid Disease In Children?
My 4 year old daughter has over the last year, experienced a great deal of hair loss. Her hair has slowly thinned out. Someone suggested that she might have problems with her thyroid, so I researched it online. She also has some of the other symptoms, like constipation and fatique. However she doesn’t have a problem with being overweight, she is actually underweight and has a hard time putting on weight. I have asked her doctor, but she didn’t think that was the problem. Should I get a second opinion? If you have any helpful information that would also be great.

A: I was diagnosed with an underactive thyroid at about age 15. I didn’t have any symtoms except having a goiter which was kind of obvious. The symptoms you mention are symptoms of an underactive thyroid. Usually the way they test it is by a blood test the most common type is Tsh and the other ones they use are T3 and T4. I had to end up having most of my thyroid taken out and I really regret it (I don’t think they do that as much anymore). I wouldn’t let anyone take hers out because even with the medication you still have metabolism problems. I would get a 2nd opinion and even though getting blood tests aren’t fun at least you’ll know for sure. Good luck!!

thyroid disease diet

admin — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Read and learn more about thyroid disease diet. For more, visit the Thyroid Disease website ThyroidDiseaseWiki.com.

Q: Can a person with Thyroid Disease use the Acai Berry Diet that Dr. Oz recommend?
I have Thyroid Problems for the past 2 years, i have gain a lot of weight, i have tried many diet with exercises, but nothing seems to work… Do to this over weight problem i have develop other health problems such as heart problems. I will like to find a diet that Works for my situation.

A: Dr Oz didn’t reccomend any acai berry diet. he said that acai berry is a very healthy food with amazing nutrition (which it is) However, he doesn’t recommend any particular product and I believe there was no mention about weight loss anything.

Also, the thing that most people mean when they say “acai berry diet” is that you’ll take diet pills, it’s not however a diet in the sane that you’ll eat this or that.

Anyway, you are going to have to diet and exercise anyway to lose weight. There is no magic pill that makes you lose weight, so diet and exercise are the only way to weight loss (although acai berry can help a bit with those results)

Q: Why can’t someone with thyroid disease take diet pills?
I haven’t asked my doctor yet but every diet pill I check out warns against using if you have thyroid disease among other conditions.
I don’t know why I can’t use diet pills anymore but would like to know why.
I am over weight due to my thyroid condition and am desperate to get some of it off so for anyone who wants to judge me for wanting to take diet pills don’t, because you have no idea what I’m going through.
Ahsan, of course I’ve been diagnosed with thyroid disease you dim wit or how else would I know I have it?
My doctors a moron that’s why I haven’t discussed this with him yet.

Some people……..

A: I have Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis and have had to ask my doctor about over-the-counter medications before, where almost anything with a stimulant is labled not for use for those with thyroid disease. He basically said that one doesn’t want to take large doses of Synthroid which will raise your metabolism and cause an increased heartrate with a stimulant as it could cause heart problems. Those with Grave’s Disease already have a rapid heart rate.

How long have you had hypothyroidism ? Believe me, I understand all too well about the weight not wanting to come off. You might need your medication dosage adjusted. All I am saying is that diet pills will kill your appetite and make you jumpy….but I don’t know how much good they will do you combating hypothyroidism. Unless you talking about some of the newer diet meds that won’t let your body absorb fat, I don’t know much about those except that one of the side effects is an ‘oily anal discharge’.

Unfortunately, there is no magic pill or medication that will make you feel or look like you used to….I wish that there was. You have to take everyday at a time and try push through the fatigue, self-doubt and depression at times.

You might want to get your triglyceride levels checked. High levels can be a side effect of hypothyroidism and getting medication for that will help you feel a bit better as well.

Keep an eye out for Diabetes as well….there is a chance that you could get either kind. Type I is an auto-immune disease where the pancreas is attacked and destroyed by your immune system and insulin production is interrupted; it most commonly occurs in children but can manifest at any time. Type II can occur when the triglyceride levels cause damage to the pancreas and insulin production is interrupted.

Point being, there are a lot of reasons why the weight won’t come off and a lot of reprecussions if you can’t…but sometimes it just isn’t your fault. Don’t let people make you feel bad about your self….do the best that you can….try to be healthy….talk to your doctor and you don’t like him or if you feel that he doesn’t listen to you, get a new doctor. Seriously.

Best of luck !
Rebekah

Q: Any connection between diet soft drink and thyroid/parathyroid disease?
A lot of young women drank quite a bit of the one-calorie diet soft drink when it was first introduced.

There seems to be an unusually large amount of thyroid disorder among women of this age group – fifty to sixty years.

Could their be a connection? Excess phosphate intake for instance? Or is this simply a factor of age?

A: Well soda plus potassium bromate in enriched flour products, additives in all our food and god forbid if they were ever in a chlorine pool … thyroid will be toast after any of those.

Q: Thyroid disease and apple cider vinegar diet?
I have an inactive thyroid and was wondering the pros and cons of doing the apple cider vinegar diet and if anybody has done the diet and the pros and cons of the diet
any details would help

A: I have heard of people using this as a treatment and some may have found limited success. Do not take the apple cider vinegar within four hours of your pills and most definitely do not take it within 4 hours of an antacid pill.

Me, I personally do not think that this has been tested well enough to tell you it works. I see no harm in you trying it.

http://www.earthclinic.com/CURES/hypothyroidism.html

Q: does anyone know a good diet for someone who has thyroid disease?
i’m not on meds anymore. because i have 2 solid nodules(not cancerous) but they have never decreased. but i want to lose weight without making my thyroid act up again?

A: The best one that I’ve found is Weight Watchers. Don’t let the points thing fool you. When followed correctly, it is a high fiber, well balanced diet. You can find more info about thyroid disease on about.com. You body does not process certain kinds of foods as well as someone that doesn’t have the disease. I’ve dealt with this for over 20 years now and WW has been the only thing that has ever worked for me. I hope this helps.

Q: does thyroid disease play a role in your diet?
does it cause you to put on weight or have cravings?

A: You can definitely gain weight if hypo and not getting the proper dose of thyroid hormone replacement… And cravings can be experienced whether hyPER or hyPO.

Your best bet is to be properly diagnosed and properly treated, getting the right amount of replacement thyroid hormone, if you are hypo, to meet your body’s needs.

Choosing to hold of on seeing the doc, waiting until it’s ‘bad enough to do something about’ will likely make it more miserable for you and will take longer to make up for in the long run… Wait too long and some of the damage can’t be undone.

Q: Is there a good diet for thyroid disease ?it makes it hard to loose.?

A: I have an underactive thyroid, I know what you mean. When I was first diagnosed with it I gained 30 pds in two months, and I was always skinny. I think you just have to eat alot of tiny meals a day and get plenty of exercise. It sucks I know. Good luck!

Q: Why is that people that have thyroid and Diabettes Disease unable to take diet pill, or other medications?
I want to lose weight but it seems as though I can’t take any to lose weight. Please help me if you know anything that I may take that will be safe.

A: I have been through it all and know what’s it about. The main thing is to stick in there. You can’t be an addict to food and never exercise if you want to live a healthy life and keep the weight off. I’ve worked out, done every diet, and all types of classes.

Nothing works, besides dedication and intelligence towards the subject of losing weight.

First, depending on how much weight you need to lose, your diet is the first concern. You can’t eat 10,000 calories a day and expect the weight to come off, even if you are exercising a lot. Which brings us to the next thing. Duh, Exercising…

This is a must especially if you need to a lot of weight. Get at least 30 mins of some good hardcore exercising. Do some cardio, in the long run, it’s good for the heart.

However, I find the most hardest part of losing weight/keeping it off, in my diet. It’s so hard to keep your fingers out of the cookie jar or those chocolate goodies. I’ve found a great addition to help any one out, it’s a natural weight loss supplement called Proactol. Now don’t get all crazy on me and say diet pills don’t work. That is true, but not in this case. This one isn’t meant to burn pounds while you sit on the couch. It’s an appetite suppressant, along with being a fat binder. I saved money on the pills at theweightlossplace dot com along with getting some good info. It basically makes those fingers not go towards the cookie jar. For me it’s the best pill I’ve tried and I’ve tried cupboards full. Now this doesn’t mean you have to follow my foot steps but I’ve successfully lost roughly 70 pounds and keeping it off til this day.

Well good luck and remember what I said, Dedicate.

Q: y thyroid disease is prevalent in a population which takes enough iodine in diet?
though thyroid diseases are known to cause by iodine deficiency in diet, we can see that people who use iodised salt too are prone to this. and especially women tend to have more thyroid problems than men.

A: Thyroid deficiency can be caused by alot of different things besides iodine deficiency –
it can be genetic, due to nuclear radiation exposure, an autoimmune disease, etc.
According to the cause, hypothyroidism may occur in various populations –Eg:
a) A family — hereditary
b) More in females – Hashimotos Thyroiditis – an autoimmune disease
c) In Japan – After the Hiroshima Nagasaki incident – due to radiation exposure
d) High altitudes — deficient iodine
e) Land-locked areas – deficient iodine

Q: Which diet pill works on women who have thyroid disease?

A: Do not believe the hype of over the counter diet pills. Most do not work, some are very dangerous, and especially with a health condition, it is not wise to take something without consulting your doctor first.

Q: does any one know a good diet plan for people with thyroid disease?
any suggestions will help im 20 pounds over weight. im possed to weigh 120 pounds

A: Excercise and eat a little at a time.

Q: I have lupus, an underactive thyroid and coeliac disease? Am I a lost cause? Will I have kids?
My lupus is only in my joints so far, I’m on medication for my thyroid disease and I know how to manage my diet.

A: It is common for us lupus folks to have more than one thing. I have several people in my support group who have the same constellation of things that you do.

Yes, you can have kids. Yes, you can have a life. You create a new normal for your life, and that takes a little time. You CAN do it.

Q: Is it possible to lose weight with under active thyroid disease?
I have gained 10 kilos and now on thyroid medication but after a month still gaining weight despite on low fat diet. is this a losing battle?

A: Oprah ( the tv presenter) has an underactive thyroid but she is trying to lose weight.
I don’t think it’s impossiable but it’s just going to be hard .
Good luck.