Grave's disease

[sammycat]

Hi, I have been diagnosed with Grave's disease (hyperthyroidism). Wondered if anyone has any experience with this. My doctor told me I would put back all the weight I had recently lost (40+ pounds). Part of me is freaking out a little bit, but I can't believe I can't control my weight with healthy eating and Cathe!? I would appreciate hearing anyone else's experiences. Also I have the option of radiation ablation or going with medication. Again, any experience out there?

 

[mini-natty]

Unfortunately I don't have any experiences with Grave's. I just want to say that I'm sorry for your condition. I am sure some of the ladies on this site will be able to help you.

I am not the type of person to give medical advice, but I think with any diagnosed disease/condition, a second opinion might be a good idea.

Take care,

Natasha

 

[RapidBreath]

Seriously, that sucks big time. Since you have the hyperthyroidism rather than hypothyroidism (low thyroid production.) you should be able to continue using workouts and healthy eats to your advantage. What your dr. is likely to do is prescribe a drug to inhibit your thyroid production. That will result in a lowered body temperature and metabolism. So, initially you will have to find out what does and does not cause weight gain. But with the Graves, you might already be underweight. (?)

What is your dr. suggesting? (If you don't mind me asking.) and what symptoms are you suffering from now? Maybe they could give you a lighter dose and not completely knock down your thyroid production?

I'm sorry this is happening to you <hugs>

Alisha

 

[carolyn122162]

Hi Sammycat,

I was diagnosed with Graves back in 1995. I was put on medication, Tapazole and a beta blocker for almost 2 years. I ended up having the radioactive iodine ablation since my liver enzyme levels were going bonkers. I never lost a dramatic amount of weight as I was in the 1% of the people with Graves that actually gained weight to begin with. Once I did the ablation, I went on Synthroid and the weight melted off of me. I felt great for about 5 years. When I was originally diagnosed with Graves, I also had a nodule on my thyroid that I had assumed would shrink along with my gland once I did the ablation. Well the nodule continued to grow and I was diagnosed with Thyroid Cancer in 2000. It has been 11 years now and I feel good. Still battle with the imbalance of the hormones. My weight has crept up over the past few years, mainly due to middle age and my love of wine!

I think you should try the medication first and if that doesn't work then do the ablation. The worst part about the ablation is you have to be isolated from your family for up to 3 days. You may gain some of the weight back since your body probably lost more than it needed to before you were diagnosed. Just maintain a healthy lifestyle and you should be fine.

Good Luck and keep us posted