[amosmcd]

in reply to: Side effects of Methimazole #1174316

Okay, here’s an update!

I left a message for my endo regarding beta blocker, splitting my Methimazole 10mg in half to take 1/2 twice daily in am and bedtime, and exercising.I explained that I found a support group and had research a lot about GD and these questions had come up. He called me back a couple hours later!

I was very happy that he thought exercising as I’m doing is fine, I can split the Methimazole in half, and he prescribed Atenolol 25mg for me to take to relieve the rapid heartbeat I’ve been having. I asked my pharmacist if I can split the Atenolol in half to start with, and she said that was fine. I’m having enough weird things going on with my body I didn’t want to throw something extra full blast at it. I’m going to try with the half pill twice a day of Methimazole for a few days before I try the Atenolol. Then I’ll start with half a 25mg pill for a few days and go from there.

Thank you all so much for providing me with ideas, information and support while I figure things out!

This makes me feel like I have a bit of control over my treatment. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Amy LC

[amosmcd]

in reply to: Side effects of Methimazole #1174315

Thanks, Cmac!

I’ll ask my endo about a beta blocker when I call him tomorrow. Thanks for the advice.

Amy LC

[amosmcd]

in reply to: Side effects of Methimazole #1174314

Thanks, Carol!

I think I’ll call my endo tomorrow to ask about splitting the dose. The weird feeling I get kicks in about 3 hours after I take it and lasts about 6 hours. If I can decrease that by splitting the pill, it sure would make things more tolerable.

My endo has never mentioned not exercising. I started walking last spring as part of a weight loss program (who knew how much I’d lose without trying!) and I don’t think I’m stressing my heart much by doing it. I just do a fast walk of 2 miles. I checked my heart rate this evening right when I was done and it was only 108. I get to 108 just sitting at my desk at work doing nothing! Just sitting in my recliner now, it’s only 80. But that number changes all the time.

Since I’m calling him, I’ll ask about exercising. I hope I don’t lose that–it’s the only thing keeping me sane!

Amy LC

[amosmcd]

in reply to: Just diagnosed #1174276

Thanks for the clarification, Ski. I’m a bit terrified at having been diagnosed with Graves so was worried there was a dark unknown out there. I’m going to just start taking it a day at a time until I’m farther into the treatment process and I see what my body does.

Amy

[amosmcd]

in reply to: Side effects of Methimazole #1174311

Thanks for the replies and advice! I really appreciate them.

My blood pressure has been normal and my pulse goes from upper 80’s to about 110 bpm although it may be faster if I’m exercising. When it gets above 90 I really feel my heart pounding in my chest and my heart skips beats a lot. I’m not sure what is meant by tremor. My hands don’t shake. My endo never mentioned a beta blocker, so maybe my heart rate isn’t high enough to warrant one?

I’m due to get my labs rechecked in 5 weeks. My endo said he will call me with the results rather than me going back in for an appt.

I’m following the instructions my endo doc gave me. I know how important it is not to vary the medication. I only switched from night time to morning after I asked a pharmacist if it would be okay.

I should just be grateful my Graves isn’t as bad as it could be at this point. I forced myself today to get things done rather than give into the energy drain and lay around. Now that it’s evening, I can relax and watch football.

Amy LC

[amosmcd]

in reply to: New Grave’s Diagnosee #1174298

Hi, WWW12–

I’m new to the forum, too. Just recently diagnosed myself. Glad to see I’m not the only new person. Hope you find the info you need here.

Amy

[amosmcd]

in reply to: Just diagnosed #1174274

Hi, Laurel–

Nice to know someone who lives in the area! Thanks for your reply. I would love to get a second opinion and welcome you sending me the name of your endo. Not sure if my insurance will cover all Eastside docs, but worth a check! My doc is good clinically, but doesn’t really discuss things without me always asking questions, and I don’t always know what questions to ask! I certainly would not jump into RAI or thyroidectomy, if it comes to that, without talking to an endo who could spend time with me and explain things without a lot of prompting.

I’m sorry you’re back dealing with Graves after so long being well. Is your endo trying something new this time?

Thanks for your support!

Amy

[amosmcd]

in reply to: Just diagnosed #1174273

Hi, Bobbi–Thanks for the info. What are the “huge problems” that having antibodies for Hashimoto’s and Graves can cause, other than the swings back and forth from hypo to hyper? My endo did say having both is not common, although he’s seen it before.

I’m due for a vision exam, so I’ll make an appt with an ophthamologist who treats Graves eye problems, just to make sure I’m covering all my bases.

Thanks for your help!

Amy

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