Dragged my sad arse to the doctor in Bangkok this morning. Each visit starts with a blood test where four thyroid indicators are measured. Last time I went, all the readings were normal and this time I was hoping to see a result that confirmed that the thyroid had died and no thyroid hormones were being produced. This would explain why I am feeling crap and I could start on the road to recovery.
But it turned out that my current condition is caused by an excess of thyroid hormones, rather than an absence. In spite of the fact that I am shovelling down double the dosage of thyroid suppressants that I used to take before I zapped my thyroid, all the indicators of my thyroid condition were reading higher than they have ever been. What’s going on Doc?
Apparently, a thyroid does not go quietly after being poisoned with radiation (the inconsiderate bastard). Instead, as the radiation does its work, the thyroid chucks out vast quantities of hormones out into the blood stream; like a supernova or a sulky (or poisoned) child throwing its toys out of the pram.
My doctor was rather surprised to see just how much hormone was being generated, and placed me on double the current double dose of suppressant for the next two weeks. This will bring me close to the end of the three month thyroid death cycle, and will hopefully make me feel a little better.
What a load of buggering about.
Comments 🔗
2012-05-14| inakaThai saysBy taking radiation, you need proper dose to take the excessive part out. If too much dose, you’ll lack hormone throughout your life; meaning need to take hormone for the rest of your life and vice versa. That’s why my wife doesn’t take the radiation because the doctor must be very good at his calculation on the dose. Hope you’re informed about this and that you’ll be well soon.
2012-05-14| Robin Parmar saysWhat a trial! All the best as you see your way through it.
2012-05-14| Jan saysthe best you can say is at least there is a reason & it’s treated - fiesty little bugger. Hope the tabs kick in really quick.
2012-05-14| Grant saysFearless, bloody-minded and refusing to die, that’s a British thyroid, trouble to the end! Good luck with the meds, get well soon.
2012-05-16| Chang Noi saysDid you check (with another specialist on this field) if what your Doc is doing is correct? It almost seems like he is just trying something and looks what is happening.
2012-05-16| Spike saysHe was thee guy who diagnosed me with Graves and has always done a great job keeping my thyroid in check. Problem with the radioactive treatment is that it is an inexact science and the thyroid does not respond in a predictable manner. I still have confidence in him, although I wish he was based in Pattaya!
2012-05-16| Billy saysStop fucking about and get well, Billy
2012-05-16| Jan saysYou may note that my brother Billy missed his calling to the caring professions - he still cares but in a “different” way. Anyhow do what he says and he wont get angry with you and trust me you will not like the incredible sulk when he gets angry !!!
2012-05-17| Spike saysReading some quality prose on your site would help cheer me up. Stop fucking about and get writing.
2012-05-17| Spike saysI recall him weeping like a girl in Aberdeen when he didn’t get his way.
2012-05-17| Jan says?? foot stamping - SCARY !!