[Bobbi]

#1075064

Endocrinologists who "specialize" in thyroid disorders are scarce as hen’s teeth, whether you live in a metropolitan area or not. So, I would not worry about the fact that yours sees mostly diabetics. Mine does as well, and she is a terrifically good endo.

Seeing an opthamologist is important when you have the opthamopathy. No endocrinologist treats the eye disease.

When we are hypothyroid, the eye symptoms may become more pronounced. It does not necessarily mean that the eye disease is getting worse. It can simply mean that the eye muscles have become more sluggish (along with the rest of the body), and they work even less well together than they would at normal levels of hormone. I went into my opthamologist in a panic once, many years ago, because the double vision had returned and I thought I was going into a second "hot" phase with the eye disease. He suggested that I have my thyroid levels checked, and he was right: I was a bit hypothyroid. Once the replacement hormone dose was raised, my double vision went away.

Wishing you well,
Bobbi — NGDF Online Facilitator

[mstywine]

#1075065

Thanks for the info. When I really look back and see what I have been through – forcing myself to eat because of the severe nasea; sleeping sitting up on the couch for two weeks because of the pressure behind my eyes; getting a decent nights rest after three months of only a few hours per night; venturing out driving with a patch to alleviate the double vision; getting back to work half time for now; being able to talk about my disease without crying; – I feel like I’ve come a long way. I just hope that I can stay positive and keep working towards feeling ‘normal’ again. Thanks again.

Mary

[mstywine]

#1019924

I was diagnosed a few months ago with GD. I also have GO and am experiencing more problems as we are trying to get my thyroid hormone at the correct dose for me after receiving RI. I first was prescribed 75 msg and began experiencing hyper symptoms. After two weeks of no replacement, I began 50 msg two weeks ago. Although I am feeling a little better physically, I am now concerned that I am a little hypo and that is what is making my eyes worsen. I went back to the endo yesterday and my eyes are protruding more and my double vision hasn’t improved. He took blood tests again and is sending me to a radiologist in two weeks to set up radio therapy. I am from a rural area and travel about a hundred and fifty miles to see the endo. I am also somewhat concerned that he mostly sees diabetic patients and may not be the best for treating my condition, but am encouraged that he is very willing to see me. Denver is the largest city in my area and would add another hundred miles to my trip. Would it be beneficial to try to find an endo that specializes in GD with GO in Denver? and how would I find one? and what can anyone tell me about radio therapy? I don’t know anyone else to ask. I would appreciate any comments or help from those of you who have gone through this disease. thanks.

Mary

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