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Harvey Gilbert, MD, is a radiation oncologist with over thirty-five years of professional experience...read more
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Senior Health
Treatment for Thyroid Conditions: Hyperthyroidism, Hypothyroidism & Cancer
Hyperthyroidism (overfunctioning of the thyroid) can be treated by medicines, internal radioactive iodine, or surgery in some cases. For bulging eye syndrome, external radiation might be needed. Hypothyroidism (underfunctioning of the thyroid) requires supplemental doses of thyroid that are taken orally.
Thyroid cancer requires surgery to remove all or part of the gland without injuring the parathyroid glands or the nerves in the voice box. After thyroid surgery, radioactive iodine to treat any remaining cancer cells in the neck (ablation) may be indicated in all patients with surgically removed thyroid cancer or just some of the more aggressive types, although there is controversy over this treatment in the medical community. Bodywide scanning may also be indicated at certain intervals to detect wayward cancer, if the cancer is the kind that can spread.
What You Need to Know If You Have a Thyroid Condition
If you have been treated or are being treated for a thyroid condition, it is critical for you to understand the following points.
- When to take your thyroid hormone medication
- Signs and symptoms of too much or not enough thyroid hormone
- When to go to your doctor for blood tests to check thyroid hormone levels, or to check for nodules
In addition, any additional drugs you may be taking for other medical conditions could affect your health or interact with the medication for your thyroid problems. Tell your doctor which medications you are taking and ask about possible interactions, side effects, and warning signs.
There are basic measures that you can take to protect your health, such as eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep and exercising several times a week. Making these activities a regular part of your daily life will help you feel your best. Healthy living is an important part of recovery from thyroid conditions and may also help prevent other health problems from occurring.
Posted in Senior Health, Treating Thyroid Conditions
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