3 years since RAI and had first TSI test

Hello – Graves’ is an autoimmune condition, which is caused when the body’s own immune system mistakenly starts attacking healthy tissue. Graves’ antibodies often target the thyroid and mimic the effects of a substance called TSH, that tells the thyroid to produce more, more MORE thyroid hormone…which makes us hypERthyroid. The RAI kept you from being hypER, which is a dangerous condition. However, it did not stop the autoimmune problem or eliminate your autoantibodies. One of the presenters at last year’s conference showed us a study that stated that autoantibody levels can remain elevated for up to 5 years after RAI. (Although they *should* be lower than they were prior to treatment).

Also, keep in mind that the eye disease is a separate condition, and does not necessarily happen at the same time we are hypER. Some people get the eye disease before they are ever diagnosed as hypER, and others get the eye disease years after having their hypERthyroidism successfully treated.

I do know of some docs who use autoantibody tests as a *guide* for when the eye disease is no longer active, but most make the decision based on whether your *symptoms* (swelling, proptosis/bulging, double vision) have been stable for a certain period of time.

There are many posters here who are in various stages of dealing with the eye disease. This is such a frustrating condition, but you have definitely found the right place to get support and encouragement!