"Treatments For Hyperthyroidism - Medications, Surgery, and Other Therapies" - Kristeen Cherney
Hyperthyroidism, also known as overactive thyroid, often causes a range of symptoms that may improve or vanish altogether with treatment. There are several effective treatments available for overactive thyroid. Radioactive iodine is one of the oldest and most trusted forms of hyperthyroid treatment. “Radioactive iodine is a procedure that essentially destroys the thyroid gland, which prevents it from staying overactive,” explained Gregory B. Dodell, MD, assistant clinical professor of medicine, endocrinology, diabetes and bone disease at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. “It is possible that a patient who has radioactive iodine treatment will develop normal thyroid levels and not need medication. However, it is a possibility that they will become hypothyroid and require medication.” Certain lifestyle changes might help you manage your symptoms. It’s important to discuss such remedies with your doctor. “Patients often ask about changes they should make. My answer is almost always, 'What is good for your body in general is good for your thyroid,'” Dr. Dodell added.
- Gregory B. Dodell, MD, Assistant Clinical Professor, Medicine, Endocrinology, Diabetes and Bone Disease, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai