[jfouts1979]

in reply to: Took RAI on 11/30/2010 – How Long to Wait? #1063233

Thanks for all of the information. I really appreciate it. You know, a lot of people I know simply do not understand everything. They think I am just complaining that I am exhausted all the time. It is nice to have a support group online to talk about the way I am feeling, and to get answers.

I have 3 more questions, hoping you can help – you seem to know a lot!

1.) I drink alcohol sometimes, and I drink caffeine often. Since the thyroid controls metabolism, and I am in the process of killing mine off (4 days post RAI now), what does that mean for caffeine and alcohol? These will be processed the same way as before once I am stable on Synthroid? I own a winery, so I will continue to drink at least small amounts of wine. I am hopeful to cut back on caffeine. It never did very much good while I was hyperthyroid. Just make me feel shaky. It always made me feel like at least I was trying to do something about my fatigue. Ultimately it probably just caused more fatigue.

2.) I am fully prepared to start eating a more healthy diet. I have been moving toward this for a year now (a healthier diet). What are some of the best things to eat to help with converting T4 to T3? I want to feel normal again as quickly as possible. I am not even sure I know what normal feels like. Will iodine still cause any remaining non-damaged thyroid cells to convert T4 to T3? I am really hoping I made the right decision with the RAI. I guess it is too late to turn back now. Is there any stem cell research out there regarding thyroid research?

3.) Regarding a multivitamin, is it safe to take one? I used to take a Men’s Health Formula "One A Day" vitamin, but stopped it around 9 months ago for fear that it would interfere with Neurontin ( a drug I take to control nerve pain ).

Sorry so many more questions.

John

By the way, tomorrow is the anniversary of the repeal of prohibition in the United States. Happy Repeal Day to everyone! Prohibition was repealed December 5th, 1933.

[jfouts1979]

in reply to: How to Choose / Tapazole/Thyroidectomy/RAI #1063570

I think I am leaning toward Thyroidectomy. The Tapazole is interfering with the Neurontin I take for nerve pain. (a pain like a fire that does not consume flesh – is the best description I have read to describe this type of pain). I don’t know how long I can take the nerve pain – hopefully long enough to get my levels back in check. Thanks to everyone for their replies. The group has helped me a lot.

[jfouts1979]

in reply to: Recurring Graves Disease? / Chronic Pain #1064025

Thanks to everyone for responding to my posting. I woke up in a soaking sweat last night. I am freezing my wife out of our house. It is a good thing the Endo appointment is coming up soon (on the 30th) – that is only 10 days away.

I think that this recurring episode of Graves is probably most definitely stress related. My wife and I are starting a business in addition to our regular full time jobs.

If you all get a chance, please visit our website, http://www.gratefulgoat.com. Our winery is called Grateful Goat Vineyard & Winery.

The stress of taking care of a vineyard in addition to my regular work load is significant. Add on to that the fact that I am doing all of the renovation work on our tasting room, etc… and you can see how I might be a little stressed.

We also just found out that after 3 years of trying, my wife is pregant with our first child! The first ultrasound will be done tomorrow, so we can hopefully hear the baby’s heartbeat.

I feel great about the baby on the way, but stressed about that as well.

Can anyone tell me how to reduce my stress level to help get the Graves under control?!

I am feeling frazzled today.

John

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