[Anonymous]

#1081784

The best place to look for the information you seek — at least to start — is in a book like “The Thyroid Sourcebook” by Sara Rosenthal, or “Your Thyroid: A Home Reference” by Drs. Wood, Cooper, and Ridgway. Both of these books are written in layman’s language, and their purpose is to lay out the facts of thyroid function, disease, and treatment for those diseases. They objectively describe the pros and cons of treatment options. When you ask people about their experiences you can get confusing extras: things that did indeed happen to one person, but may not have had anything whatsoever to do with the treatment. If you know what objective observations and studies have proven to be the issues, when you start, you will be able to weed out those extraneous items.

Bobbi — NGDF Online Facilitator

[Anonymous]

#1022056

I was just diagnosed with Graves Disease in December. When I was at the doctors office last week, he presented me with some treatment options, once my levels become normal, such as iodine treatment, or surgery to have my thryoid removed. Since I am not real familiar with the side effects or know too much about any of this I am looking for feedback on
persons who have done either of them and how this effected you and the postive and negatives on either one. Any info that people can provide would be truly grateful. I want all the info I can get before I decide on what to do. Thanks

[Anonymous]

#1081785

The book co-written by Jake (Graves Disease in our own Words) is also very helpful in understanding a new diagnosis. I was able to locate the Thyroid Sourcebook in a local library. It is also excellent and very easy to understand. The ATA web site is also a good source of information (see the links page).

My doctor explained my options and left the choice entirely up to me as well. I chose ATD (methimazole) and have been on it for three weeks now (I was diagnosed in December). If I had to start over, I would have spent more time talking to my doctor about which option he thinks is best and why. He prefers RAI. Researching it myself has really helped me understand my choice and his preference. Having had a little more time between diagnosis and selecting a treatment option might have made me more comfortable with RAI. For me, I chose as I did because the ATDs are “temporary” solution. Once you have RAI or have your thyroid removed, it is a “permanent” decision. I am the type person who likes to know as much as possible and not rush into decisions. If the ATDs do not seem to be working, I will probably elect to go with RAI.

I truly believe the hardest things about Graves are (1) having patience while you and your team of doctors work together to find the best way to get your thyroid under control, and (2) understanding and coping with all the wierd symptoms that may or may not be related to Graves. Graves seems to affect everyone a little differently (you just need to skim through the posts to see that). It can be frustrating figuring out what is Graves related and what is not. I am learning to be persistent with my doctors. Also, there is definitely an big emotional component to Graves. For me, this is the most difficult. Most days are okay, not really good or bad, but some are really bad for me. The exhaustion is more than just physical. I don’t really look sick and people assume I am feeling better because I know what is wrong with me and taking meds. I am learning to just hang in there and when those around me don’t understand, I know there are people here who do and are willing to listen and help. I did share the FAQ about Graves from this site with my family and close friends and it has helped them better understand my illness.

Hang in there! I know things will get better for you, and for me. Just know that if you have Graves, you need to do something. You cannot ignore it. And for those who facilitate this site and those who participate, thank you for encouragement and for your wisdom! It is really comforting to know that you all are truly just a click away. I hope you all have a blessed day!

[Anonymous]

#1081786

Hi,
My thyroid levels have been elevated for the past couple of months.
I am taking a beta blocker for the symptoms. I also had a thyroid scan.
The nurse from the doctor’s office called and left a message today.
She said that I have mildly revolving Graves Disease. O.K., I know what Graves Disease is but I have never heard of the “mildly revolving”
reference. What does this mean? My doctor is out until next Tuesday. Can anyone help me out?
Thanks!

[Anonymous]

#1081787

I have never heard of the words “mildly revolving” associated with the disease. I would hesitate to make a guess as to what he/she meant.

Please know that hyperthyroidism is very treatable, but even the mild forms need to be effectively treated. Studies are showing that even low/mild levels of hyperthyroidism have long-lasting bad effects on the body and health.

Bobbi — NGDF Online Facilitator

[Author]

Posts