[LisaM]

in reply to: You have Graves. Ok. I get it. #1071879

Thanks to everyone for their concern and responses. I’m not sure if I made it clear in my post, but I did seek radioactive iodine treatment In August of last year. Currently, I’m not taking any meds because my blood tests revealed normal T3 AND T4 levels but my TSH is still low and some antibodies are still floating around in my body. My doc said it was optional for me at this point to take the Methimazole, he prescribed 5mg, but I told him if I feel fine, I would rather not take it, and just let the RAI do its magic, whether I need to go bald or keep gaining weight. I’m fine with it. I’ve made my peace with this pesky little disease. I have another blood test in about 2 months if anything is still abnormal, then I’ll reconsider taking the Methimazole.

Now on to the positives: The fact that I was one of those severe cases, I think my resting heart rate would be at 112 bpm, who knows how it was in times of excitement, not sure because I never really monitored that. I was surprised that a resting heart rate is around 80. I never experienced that until now! My husband also noticed that my hands aren’t clammy anymore, and the fine tremor I had when we held hands is gone. I’m actually thrilled that I can start exercising or running and not get winded after 5 minutes, which actually largely discouraged me from having an active lifestyle when I was hyper. Now that I’m gaining weight, I believe I’m at 132, I’m 5’4. Before I would weigh 120 maximum, and that’s with a very sedentary, non-active lifestyle. I’m starting to walk in the evennings now, and hopefully that will motivate me to start exercising.

Dianne M, thanks for clarifying that the rapid change in thyroid levels were causing my symptoms. Honestly the fact that I wasn’t on any thyroid medications before the RAI treatment, has probably made my body more sensitive to the change. This past week I’ve also noticed that I’m tired in the mornings, and my hair is becoming brittle and feels drier. I’m starting to put olive oil in my hair to help moisturize it every other day when I wash my hair, I’m also starting to take daily doses of 1000 mg of Vitamin C, which help with collagen formation, and I’ll let you guys know if I notice any improvements! I have not yet started to take Biotin supplements but will start soon.

[LisaM]

in reply to: hair loss #1071940

I too am currently experiencing this and I’m sorry to hear. As everyone else has said these are fairly textbook symptoms and thankfully are temporary but nonetheless discouraging at times. I’ve honestly decided just shave my head and save the trouble of having to constantly sweep or vacuum my floors! I’ve decided to start taking Biotin supplements and will increase my diet of vegetables. Apparently Biotin supplements have worked for cancer patients who have lost their hair. However, I’m not sure how high of a dose I should be taking. Has anyone else tried this?

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