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Q: Side effects of RAI ?
asked by: penguingal on September 15th, 2009
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I've been suffering from grave disease for over 5 years. I have been advised to go for RAI from nearly all the doctors I've consulted with (total =4) but what I've found out online for the post RAI effects is scary and disturbing. I have a grave eye disease as well and most sites I've researched stated that it will get worst, with steroids to be given to prevent any further inflammation caused by RAI. However, the steriod itself can cause other more side effects. Seems like in order to cure my hyperactive thyroid, I'll gain even more unpleasant side effects. Is surgery the better solution to RAI, apart from its more costly procedure?? I'm scheduled for RAI in one month's time and I'm having a second thought. I'm still responding well to my anti-thyroid drugs but my thyroid will kick in once I go off the drugs. My main concern is my bulging right eye Shocked
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Dr. Robert Wascher , MD
replied on September 15th, 2009
A total or subtotal thyroidectomy can be performed, and will usually cure Grave's disease. The downside is a 100% chance of becoming hypothyroid, as well as a 2 or 3 percent risk of injury to the nerves that control your vocal cords, and a 3 to 5 percent likelihood of hypocaclemia (low calcium in the blood) from parathyroid gland injury or removal.

Based upon your description of the severity of your Grave's disease, I agree with your doctors that definitive, permanent treatment should be undertaken at this time.

Sincerely/ Robert A. Wascher, MD, FACS

http://doctorwascher.com





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