[hope1]

in reply to: orbital decompression #1169703

I am scheduled for two orbital decompressions in Jan. Just found out my potassium levels are abnormally low . They cannot proceed with the surgery until the potassium levels stabilize. First surgery is Jan. 4 out of state. Do I stand a chance of the potassium levels increasing enough prior to Jan. 4? I have waited a long time to proceed.

I am taking prescription supplements and started a potassium rich diet. I am at a loss to know if I should cancel plane tickets, surgeries etc. My primary care doc thinks it will be ok, but I don’t want to cancel with my surgeon at the last minute. He sees alot of Graves patients.

[hope1]

in reply to: orbital decompression #1169701

The eyelids are swollen and retracted. I had both eyelids done at another medical center as the docs felt an emergency measure was necessary to protect the eyes given the protusion. I knew it was out of sequence but was advised to proceed to avoid damage to the corneas. The results were quite asymmetrical but did reduce the pain since my eyelids could no longer cover the eyes. The cosmetic concerns took a backseat to controlling the discomfort.

I cannot say how much I appreciated you taking the time to respond. This disease is a long haul for all of us. I did my research carefully re the choice of U. of Michigan-it feels like a good choice for me. Nonetheless, it is good to hear from others positive feedback.

I will check in after both procedures. Thanks for the support.

[hope1]

in reply to: cold stage #1169100

I have wondered about orbital decompression given my vision loss, protusion, and pain. My doc sees this as an absolute last resort but other physicians seem to approach this option differently. I would appreciate hearing from others when they were advised to proceed with this surgery.

[hope1]

in reply to: cold stage #1169099

Thanks to both of you that sent responses. It confirmed my thoughts about my current status and gave me the courage to push forward again and contact my docs. I was told by a major medical center that I was probably stable . I had done my homework- carefully choosing a team of experts. However, this disease will take many paths and I have evidently not made it to the cold stage. You have to trust your instincts .

Thyroid levels are not stable and have not been since they removed the thyroid, so they are going to now work to address this issue. I have two appointments coming up. Of course, I am scared to continue to lose ground. The vision issues are becoming signficant enough to interfere with my work and just about everything else.

I am evidently in that small percentage that does not stabilize after removal of the thyroid. It helps to know that there are some long term remedies as you described- gives some hope for the future.

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