Re: negative discussion of RAI

[Guest guest]

In a message dated 4/13/02 9:49:01 PM Eastern Daylight Time,

graves_support writes:

<< So challenging that knowledge is threatening; but if the changes in

childbirth experiences are any example, challenges are necessary. >>

This reminded me that in the early 1970s I was called a " rabble rouser " by an

obstetrician for forming a group for mothers who wished to learn to nurse

their babies and have " rooming-in " in the hospital. Hah! Thankfully, that

is laughable these days. We've come a long way, mainly from the effect of

women joining together to share information.

I see this group as the same type of historical movement for positive change.

The comments on the issue of " support " have been so thoughtful and

intelligent. It reminds me that I love the sage gravesians who make up this

group.

We will always support people who choose RAI -- that's why we formed Atomic

Women, with the motto: " We may as well go forward, because we can't go back! "

All the " negative " information shared here about the effects of RAI is simply

INFORMATION. We can't make decisions for people or control whether or not

they feel bad about the possible negative effects. We speak from personal

experience, and anyone can take it or leave it.

There are some people who, many years after RAI, can say that they had a good

outcome. Hurray for them!

Some of us have actually felt better for a short time afterward, but as the

years go by we find that it was a bad decision. If we don't share that, we

are not being honest.

[Guest guest]

In a message dated 4/13/02 9:49:01 PM Eastern Daylight Time,

graves_support writes:

<< So challenging that knowledge is threatening; but if the changes in

childbirth experiences are any example, challenges are necessary. >>

This reminded me that in the early 1970s I was called a " rabble rouser " by an

obstetrician for forming a group for mothers who wished to learn to nurse

their babies and have " rooming-in " in the hospital. Hah! Thankfully, that

is laughable these days. We've come a long way, mainly from the effect of

women joining together to share information.

I see this group as the same type of historical movement for positive change.

The comments on the issue of " support " have been so thoughtful and

intelligent. It reminds me that I love the sage gravesians who make up this

group.

We will always support people who choose RAI -- that's why we formed Atomic

Women, with the motto: " We may as well go forward, because we can't go back! "

All the " negative " information shared here about the effects of RAI is simply

INFORMATION. We can't make decisions for people or control whether or not

they feel bad about the possible negative effects. We speak from personal

experience, and anyone can take it or leave it.

There are some people who, many years after RAI, can say that they had a good

outcome. Hurray for them!

Some of us have actually felt better for a short time afterward, but as the

years go by we find that it was a bad decision. If we don't share that, we

are not being honest.

[Guest guest]

Hi,

I'm new to this list and decided not to have RAI after two doctors suggested I

have it. I wanted to put my two cents in here and say that I really appreciate

the posts from people who have experienced RAI, whether positive or negative. I

have two major reasons for deciding against RAI - One: I have two small

children and am worried about any danger to them. Two: If GD is an auto immune

disorder, how does zapping my thryoid with radiation cure the disease? My

doctors are not telling me ANY drawbacks to RAI and I am so grateful to have

found this forum and to hear some first hand accounts of ALL my choices. My

doctors (two endos so far and two gp's) gave me two options, RAI and ATDs. I've

since learned of alternative options, lifestyle and dietary changes and surgery.

Thank you for disseminating such important information!

Kristi

negative discussion of RAI

Hi all:

Just a thought on this.

It's true, that many of us have strong feelings about RAI treatment for Graves

disease. Historical note for new people: many of us formed this list after

feeling that the NGDF BB didn't allow a free discussion of the drawbacks to RAI,

or a free discussion of alternative medicine, among other things.

We felt so strongly about the need to discuss quality of care issues among

ourselves (and to be able to define that broadly) that we started this list.

I'd argue that those feelings most people have about RAI fall into two

categories--first and foremost, people here are simply concerned that RAI is

handed over, without much thought on the part of physicians, as THE treatment

option for Graves Disease.

Second, many people believe that a significant minority--not all, but a

significant group--suffer tremendously after RAI due to problems regarding

under-medication and other less understood issues that may come from drinking

radioactive material AND being, for most of us, permanently hypothyroid.

My personal view on this list, is that we're pushing the envelope, helping to

nudge along the medical and popular consiousness. Think fifty years ago when

women were knocked out with drugs and 'had' babies. My own mom said she can't

remember any of her three births because she was 'sleeping.' Just look at how

women have changed the medical bith experience, largely by saying: we want to

be informed, awake participants who control our bodies and decisions.

We're doing that for thyroid problems and we're not alone -- there are all

sorts of 'subversive' pockets questioning the standard treatments for

hyperthyroidism. This is one of the few places people can go to for a

different/alternative perspective on RAI. That doesn't inherently mean that

we're right, but it's important that these opinions be out there so everyone can

learn all sides surrounding an issue (not just both -- there are many sides and

angles to each tx).

Standard medical treatments have much to gain by remaining the same: doctors'

have training/knowledge to preserve and pass on; drug companies have a stake,

etc. It's not that there's a 'conspiracy' but that disciplines, by nature, try

to maintain their right --and their right alone -- to produce and control the

knowledge of their discipline.

So challenging that knowledge is threatening; but if the changes in childbirth

experiences are any example, challenges are necessary.

I could go on and on. Really, someday I will write that article on thyroid

disease!

B

[Guest guest]

Hi,

I'm new to this list and decided not to have RAI after two doctors suggested I

have it. I wanted to put my two cents in here and say that I really appreciate

the posts from people who have experienced RAI, whether positive or negative. I

have two major reasons for deciding against RAI - One: I have two small

children and am worried about any danger to them. Two: If GD is an auto immune

disorder, how does zapping my thryoid with radiation cure the disease? My

doctors are not telling me ANY drawbacks to RAI and I am so grateful to have

found this forum and to hear some first hand accounts of ALL my choices. My

doctors (two endos so far and two gp's) gave me two options, RAI and ATDs. I've

since learned of alternative options, lifestyle and dietary changes and surgery.

Thank you for disseminating such important information!

Kristi

negative discussion of RAI

Hi all:

Just a thought on this.

It's true, that many of us have strong feelings about RAI treatment for Graves

disease. Historical note for new people: many of us formed this list after

feeling that the NGDF BB didn't allow a free discussion of the drawbacks to RAI,

or a free discussion of alternative medicine, among other things.

We felt so strongly about the need to discuss quality of care issues among

ourselves (and to be able to define that broadly) that we started this list.

I'd argue that those feelings most people have about RAI fall into two

categories--first and foremost, people here are simply concerned that RAI is

handed over, without much thought on the part of physicians, as THE treatment

option for Graves Disease.

Second, many people believe that a significant minority--not all, but a

significant group--suffer tremendously after RAI due to problems regarding

under-medication and other less understood issues that may come from drinking

radioactive material AND being, for most of us, permanently hypothyroid.

My personal view on this list, is that we're pushing the envelope, helping to

nudge along the medical and popular consiousness. Think fifty years ago when

women were knocked out with drugs and 'had' babies. My own mom said she can't

remember any of her three births because she was 'sleeping.' Just look at how

women have changed the medical bith experience, largely by saying: we want to

be informed, awake participants who control our bodies and decisions.

We're doing that for thyroid problems and we're not alone -- there are all

sorts of 'subversive' pockets questioning the standard treatments for

hyperthyroidism. This is one of the few places people can go to for a

different/alternative perspective on RAI. That doesn't inherently mean that

we're right, but it's important that these opinions be out there so everyone can

learn all sides surrounding an issue (not just both -- there are many sides and

angles to each tx).

Standard medical treatments have much to gain by remaining the same: doctors'

have training/knowledge to preserve and pass on; drug companies have a stake,

etc. It's not that there's a 'conspiracy' but that disciplines, by nature, try

to maintain their right --and their right alone -- to produce and control the

knowledge of their discipline.

So challenging that knowledge is threatening; but if the changes in childbirth

experiences are any example, challenges are necessary.

I could go on and on. Really, someday I will write that article on thyroid

disease!

B

[Guest guest]

Hi,

I'm new to this list and decided not to have RAI after two doctors suggested I

have it. I wanted to put my two cents in here and say that I really appreciate

the posts from people who have experienced RAI, whether positive or negative. I

have two major reasons for deciding against RAI - One: I have two small

children and am worried about any danger to them. Two: If GD is an auto immune

disorder, how does zapping my thryoid with radiation cure the disease? My

doctors are not telling me ANY drawbacks to RAI and I am so grateful to have

found this forum and to hear some first hand accounts of ALL my choices. My

doctors (two endos so far and two gp's) gave me two options, RAI and ATDs. I've

since learned of alternative options, lifestyle and dietary changes and surgery.

Thank you for disseminating such important information!

Kristi

negative discussion of RAI

Hi all:

Just a thought on this.

It's true, that many of us have strong feelings about RAI treatment for Graves

disease. Historical note for new people: many of us formed this list after

feeling that the NGDF BB didn't allow a free discussion of the drawbacks to RAI,

or a free discussion of alternative medicine, among other things.

We felt so strongly about the need to discuss quality of care issues among

ourselves (and to be able to define that broadly) that we started this list.

I'd argue that those feelings most people have about RAI fall into two

categories--first and foremost, people here are simply concerned that RAI is

handed over, without much thought on the part of physicians, as THE treatment

option for Graves Disease.

Second, many people believe that a significant minority--not all, but a

significant group--suffer tremendously after RAI due to problems regarding

under-medication and other less understood issues that may come from drinking

radioactive material AND being, for most of us, permanently hypothyroid.

My personal view on this list, is that we're pushing the envelope, helping to

nudge along the medical and popular consiousness. Think fifty years ago when

women were knocked out with drugs and 'had' babies. My own mom said she can't

remember any of her three births because she was 'sleeping.' Just look at how

women have changed the medical bith experience, largely by saying: we want to

be informed, awake participants who control our bodies and decisions.

We're doing that for thyroid problems and we're not alone -- there are all

sorts of 'subversive' pockets questioning the standard treatments for

hyperthyroidism. This is one of the few places people can go to for a

different/alternative perspective on RAI. That doesn't inherently mean that

we're right, but it's important that these opinions be out there so everyone can

learn all sides surrounding an issue (not just both -- there are many sides and

angles to each tx).

Standard medical treatments have much to gain by remaining the same: doctors'

have training/knowledge to preserve and pass on; drug companies have a stake,

etc. It's not that there's a 'conspiracy' but that disciplines, by nature, try

to maintain their right --and their right alone -- to produce and control the

knowledge of their discipline.

So challenging that knowledge is threatening; but if the changes in childbirth

experiences are any example, challenges are necessary.

I could go on and on. Really, someday I will write that article on thyroid

disease!

B

[Guest guest]

Hi Kristi,

Would you share with us you alternative decisions and how they you are doing

with them? I do hope you will continue to be monitored by a doctor or

naturopath <sp?>. Monitoring is a very big part of attaining remission and

without monitoring to know if the things you are doing are right, Graves

Disease can be dangerous.

You have gone through 4 doctors already I'm glad to see you are not

afraid of looking for and finding the right doctors for you! Have you ever

checked out the top docs site at about.com? Here is the url for that should

you need it.

http://thyroid.about.com/library/weekly/bldoc1.htm

Take care and hope you are already well on your way to feeling better!

Jody

_________________________________________________________________

Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com/intl.asp.

[Guest guest]

Hi Jody,

Well, I'm trying to get my current doctor to agree to a lot of the stuff I want

to try. I actually have a friend who's husband is a doctor and she's looking

around for me to see if she can find a good doc. Her husband is Korean and

totally open to alternative medicine and things. Right now my biggest challenge

seems to be changing my diet. I'm taking tapazole and proponal (sp?) and it's

working well, except we're having trouble getting me to the right dose. I

started with 40 mg a day and then went hypo so now my doctor has me on 10 mg a

day. I think I might be going a little hyper again though, so I have another

appointment next week to do some more blood work. It's amazing how pushy I've

become. I think the last endo I had really got me to be more assertive. I was

having horrible muscle pains and gaining all this weight and he kept telling me

it was " unrelated to my condition " . He even wanted me to raise my tapazole dose

to 60mg a day. I'd hate to think what would have happened if I'd listened to

him. Anyway, it made me realize how little doctors seem to know about this. I

grew up in the military and I guess when you use military doctors for any length

of time, you get lots of practice with " quacks " . ha-ha! Also, I want to feel

better and I don't want to waste time with someone who knows less about this

disease than I do. I have two toddlers to chase around and I can't be bothered

with niceties at this point.

As for specific alternative therapies, I'm trying massage and dietary changes.

My friend who's husband is a doctor suggest acupuncture, but I have to admit

needles make me nervous. I'm doing some reading on different herbs and

unfortunately I haven't found a good naturopath yet. We only have one in our

town and she wanted me to do some body scan and didn't really listen to what i

was trying to ask her. I wanted her to do some testing on any nutrient

deficiencies I might have and she kept pushing this accupro thing.

I have always been a big worry wart and I'm really focusing on reducing my

stress level. I'm realizing how tense I've been for such a long time,

unnecessary tension, you know? So I'm trying to do some things to calm down and

enjoy life. I just painted my bedroom a beautiful tranquil green! I'm trying

to make my home a haven. Does that sound ridiculous? I've taken up gardening

too and I just love that. I find that my muscle pains are less severe when I

exercise so I'm also trying to do some exercise everyday.

Well, sorry this is so long!! I'm feeling chatty today.

One thing this group is helping me with, is the realization that I will have to

take more control over my health and that it will take a while to get things

going. Reading everyone's battle with this is so helpful. It's a crap shoot

really...try this, see if it works...no? OK, try this....I'm accepting that it

will take time and that helps me. I was a little disappointed to start feeling

hyper again on 10 mg of tap, but after reading so many suggestions on here about

gradually reducing dosages, it looks like I shouldn't be surprised by it since I

went from 40 mg to 10 mg overnight.

Well, this is way too long!! Better stop babbling.

Kristi

Re: negative discussion of RAI

Hi Kristi,

Would you share with us you alternative decisions and how they you are doing

with them? I do hope you will continue to be monitored by a doctor or

naturopath <sp?>. Monitoring is a very big part of attaining remission and

without monitoring to know if the things you are doing are right, Graves

Disease can be dangerous.

You have gone through 4 doctors already I'm glad to see you are not

afraid of looking for and finding the right doctors for you! Have you ever

checked out the top docs site at about.com? Here is the url for that should

you need it.

http://thyroid.about.com/library/weekly/bldoc1.htm

Take care and hope you are already well on your way to feeling better!

Jody

_________________________________________________________________

Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com/intl.asp.

[Guest guest]

Hi Jody,

Well, I'm trying to get my current doctor to agree to a lot of the stuff I want

to try. I actually have a friend who's husband is a doctor and she's looking

around for me to see if she can find a good doc. Her husband is Korean and

totally open to alternative medicine and things. Right now my biggest challenge

seems to be changing my diet. I'm taking tapazole and proponal (sp?) and it's

working well, except we're having trouble getting me to the right dose. I

started with 40 mg a day and then went hypo so now my doctor has me on 10 mg a

day. I think I might be going a little hyper again though, so I have another

appointment next week to do some more blood work. It's amazing how pushy I've

become. I think the last endo I had really got me to be more assertive. I was

having horrible muscle pains and gaining all this weight and he kept telling me

it was " unrelated to my condition " . He even wanted me to raise my tapazole dose

to 60mg a day. I'd hate to think what would have happened if I'd listened to

him. Anyway, it made me realize how little doctors seem to know about this. I

grew up in the military and I guess when you use military doctors for any length

of time, you get lots of practice with " quacks " . ha-ha! Also, I want to feel

better and I don't want to waste time with someone who knows less about this

disease than I do. I have two toddlers to chase around and I can't be bothered

with niceties at this point.

As for specific alternative therapies, I'm trying massage and dietary changes.

My friend who's husband is a doctor suggest acupuncture, but I have to admit

needles make me nervous. I'm doing some reading on different herbs and

unfortunately I haven't found a good naturopath yet. We only have one in our

town and she wanted me to do some body scan and didn't really listen to what i

was trying to ask her. I wanted her to do some testing on any nutrient

deficiencies I might have and she kept pushing this accupro thing.

I have always been a big worry wart and I'm really focusing on reducing my

stress level. I'm realizing how tense I've been for such a long time,

unnecessary tension, you know? So I'm trying to do some things to calm down and

enjoy life. I just painted my bedroom a beautiful tranquil green! I'm trying

to make my home a haven. Does that sound ridiculous? I've taken up gardening

too and I just love that. I find that my muscle pains are less severe when I

exercise so I'm also trying to do some exercise everyday.

Well, sorry this is so long!! I'm feeling chatty today.

One thing this group is helping me with, is the realization that I will have to

take more control over my health and that it will take a while to get things

going. Reading everyone's battle with this is so helpful. It's a crap shoot

really...try this, see if it works...no? OK, try this....I'm accepting that it

will take time and that helps me. I was a little disappointed to start feeling

hyper again on 10 mg of tap, but after reading so many suggestions on here about

gradually reducing dosages, it looks like I shouldn't be surprised by it since I

went from 40 mg to 10 mg overnight.

Well, this is way too long!! Better stop babbling.

Kristi

Re: negative discussion of RAI

Hi Kristi,

Would you share with us you alternative decisions and how they you are doing

with them? I do hope you will continue to be monitored by a doctor or

naturopath <sp?>. Monitoring is a very big part of attaining remission and

without monitoring to know if the things you are doing are right, Graves

Disease can be dangerous.

You have gone through 4 doctors already I'm glad to see you are not

afraid of looking for and finding the right doctors for you! Have you ever

checked out the top docs site at about.com? Here is the url for that should

you need it.

http://thyroid.about.com/library/weekly/bldoc1.htm

Take care and hope you are already well on your way to feeling better!

Jody

_________________________________________________________________

Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com/intl.asp.

[Guest guest]

Hi Jody,

Well, I'm trying to get my current doctor to agree to a lot of the stuff I want

to try. I actually have a friend who's husband is a doctor and she's looking

around for me to see if she can find a good doc. Her husband is Korean and

totally open to alternative medicine and things. Right now my biggest challenge

seems to be changing my diet. I'm taking tapazole and proponal (sp?) and it's

working well, except we're having trouble getting me to the right dose. I

started with 40 mg a day and then went hypo so now my doctor has me on 10 mg a

day. I think I might be going a little hyper again though, so I have another

appointment next week to do some more blood work. It's amazing how pushy I've

become. I think the last endo I had really got me to be more assertive. I was

having horrible muscle pains and gaining all this weight and he kept telling me

it was " unrelated to my condition " . He even wanted me to raise my tapazole dose

to 60mg a day. I'd hate to think what would have happened if I'd listened to

him. Anyway, it made me realize how little doctors seem to know about this. I

grew up in the military and I guess when you use military doctors for any length

of time, you get lots of practice with " quacks " . ha-ha! Also, I want to feel

better and I don't want to waste time with someone who knows less about this

disease than I do. I have two toddlers to chase around and I can't be bothered

with niceties at this point.

As for specific alternative therapies, I'm trying massage and dietary changes.

My friend who's husband is a doctor suggest acupuncture, but I have to admit

needles make me nervous. I'm doing some reading on different herbs and

unfortunately I haven't found a good naturopath yet. We only have one in our

town and she wanted me to do some body scan and didn't really listen to what i

was trying to ask her. I wanted her to do some testing on any nutrient

deficiencies I might have and she kept pushing this accupro thing.

I have always been a big worry wart and I'm really focusing on reducing my

stress level. I'm realizing how tense I've been for such a long time,

unnecessary tension, you know? So I'm trying to do some things to calm down and

enjoy life. I just painted my bedroom a beautiful tranquil green! I'm trying

to make my home a haven. Does that sound ridiculous? I've taken up gardening

too and I just love that. I find that my muscle pains are less severe when I

exercise so I'm also trying to do some exercise everyday.

Well, sorry this is so long!! I'm feeling chatty today.

One thing this group is helping me with, is the realization that I will have to

take more control over my health and that it will take a while to get things

going. Reading everyone's battle with this is so helpful. It's a crap shoot

really...try this, see if it works...no? OK, try this....I'm accepting that it

will take time and that helps me. I was a little disappointed to start feeling

hyper again on 10 mg of tap, but after reading so many suggestions on here about

gradually reducing dosages, it looks like I shouldn't be surprised by it since I

went from 40 mg to 10 mg overnight.

Well, this is way too long!! Better stop babbling.

Kristi

Re: negative discussion of RAI

Hi Kristi,

Would you share with us you alternative decisions and how they you are doing

with them? I do hope you will continue to be monitored by a doctor or

naturopath <sp?>. Monitoring is a very big part of attaining remission and

without monitoring to know if the things you are doing are right, Graves

Disease can be dangerous.

You have gone through 4 doctors already I'm glad to see you are not

afraid of looking for and finding the right doctors for you! Have you ever

checked out the top docs site at about.com? Here is the url for that should

you need it.

http://thyroid.about.com/library/weekly/bldoc1.htm

Take care and hope you are already well on your way to feeling better!

Jody

_________________________________________________________________

Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com/intl.asp.

[Guest guest]

Kristi,

<<<<Anyway, it made me realize how little doctors seem to know about this.  I

grew up in the military and I guess when you use military doctors for any

length of time, you get lots of practice with " quacks " .  >>>>

My ex was in the Navy for 6 1/2 years. Thats where I learned how to stand up

for what I feel I need. They don't hand anything to you, you have to ask for

it! Expecially if you are a dependent.

After all, " dependents don't come with the " Sea-Bag!!! " " -- I was actually

told this once by a Navy Surgeon. I told him, this dependent did. In the

end he lost the battle, because dependents have more leway. You just call

Red Cross. The Military has to respond to Red Cross. That surgeon wasn't to

happy!!!

Deb

[Guest guest]

Kristi,

<<<<Anyway, it made me realize how little doctors seem to know about this.  I

grew up in the military and I guess when you use military doctors for any

length of time, you get lots of practice with " quacks " .  >>>>

My ex was in the Navy for 6 1/2 years. Thats where I learned how to stand up

for what I feel I need. They don't hand anything to you, you have to ask for

it! Expecially if you are a dependent.

After all, " dependents don't come with the " Sea-Bag!!! " " -- I was actually

told this once by a Navy Surgeon. I told him, this dependent did. In the

end he lost the battle, because dependents have more leway. You just call

Red Cross. The Military has to respond to Red Cross. That surgeon wasn't to

happy!!!

Deb

[Guest guest]

--- Kristi wrote:

> Hi,

> I'm new to this list and decided not to have RAI

> after two doctors suggested I have it. I wanted to

> put my two cents in here and say that I really

> appreciate the posts from people who have

> experienced RAI, whether positive or negative. I

> have two major reasons for deciding against RAI -

> One: I have two small children and am worried about

> any danger to them. Two: If GD is an auto immune

> disorder, how does zapping my thryoid with radiation

> cure the disease? My doctors are not telling me ANY

> drawbacks to RAI and I am so grateful to have found

> this forum and to hear some first hand accounts of

> ALL my choices. My doctors (two endos so far and

> two gp's) gave me two options, RAI and ATDs. I've

> since learned of alternative options, lifestyle and

> dietary changes and surgery. Thank you for

> disseminating such important information!

> Kristi

> negative discussion of

> RAI

>

>

> Hi all:

>

> Just a thought on this.

>

> It's true, that many of us have strong feelings

> about RAI treatment for Graves disease. Historical

> note for new people: many of us formed this list

> after feeling that the NGDF BB didn't allow a free

> discussion of the drawbacks to RAI, or a free

> discussion of alternative medicine, among other

> things.

>

> We felt so strongly about the need to discuss

> quality of care issues among ourselves (and to be

> able to define that broadly) that we started this

> list.

>

> I'd argue that those feelings most people have

> about RAI fall into two categories--first and

> foremost, people here are simply concerned that RAI

> is handed over, without much thought on the part of

> physicians, as THE treatment option for Graves

> Disease.

>

> Second, many people believe that a significant

> minority--not all, but a significant group--suffer

> tremendously after RAI due to problems regarding

> under-medication and other less understood issues

> that may come from drinking radioactive material AND

> being, for most of us, permanently hypothyroid.

>

> My personal view on this list, is that we're

> pushing the envelope, helping to nudge along the

> medical and popular consiousness. Think fifty years

> ago when women were knocked out with drugs and 'had'

> babies. My own mom said she can't remember any of

> her three births because she was 'sleeping.' Just

> look at how women have changed the medical bith

> experience, largely by saying: we want to be

> informed, awake participants who control our bodies

> and decisions.

>

> We're doing that for thyroid problems and we're

> not alone -- there are all sorts of 'subversive'

> pockets questioning the standard treatments for

> hyperthyroidism. This is one of the few places

> people can go to for a different/alternative

> perspective on RAI. That doesn't inherently mean

> that we're right, but it's important that these

> opinions be out there so everyone can learn all

> sides surrounding an issue (not just both -- there

> are many sides and angles to each tx).

>

> Standard medical treatments have much to gain by

> remaining the same: doctors' have

> training/knowledge to preserve and pass on; drug

> companies have a stake, etc. It's not that there's

> a 'conspiracy' but that disciplines, by nature, try

> to maintain their right --and their right alone --

> to produce and control the knowledge of their

> discipline.

>

> So challenging that knowledge is threatening; but

> if the changes in childbirth experiences are any

> example, challenges are necessary.

>

> I could go on and on. Really, someday I will

> write that article on thyroid disease!

>

> B

>

>

>

> [Non-text portions of this message have been

> removed]

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

--- Kristi wrote:

> Hi,

> I'm new to this list and decided not to have RAI

> after two doctors suggested I have it. I wanted to

> put my two cents in here and say that I really

> appreciate the posts from people who have

> experienced RAI, whether positive or negative. I

> have two major reasons for deciding against RAI -

> One: I have two small children and am worried about

> any danger to them. Two: If GD is an auto immune

> disorder, how does zapping my thryoid with radiation

> cure the disease? My doctors are not telling me ANY

> drawbacks to RAI and I am so grateful to have found

> this forum and to hear some first hand accounts of

> ALL my choices. My doctors (two endos so far and

> two gp's) gave me two options, RAI and ATDs. I've

> since learned of alternative options, lifestyle and

> dietary changes and surgery. Thank you for

> disseminating such important information!

> Kristi

> negative discussion of

> RAI

>

>

> Hi all:

>

> Just a thought on this.

>

> It's true, that many of us have strong feelings

> about RAI treatment for Graves disease. Historical

> note for new people: many of us formed this list

> after feeling that the NGDF BB didn't allow a free

> discussion of the drawbacks to RAI, or a free

> discussion of alternative medicine, among other

> things.

>

> We felt so strongly about the need to discuss

> quality of care issues among ourselves (and to be

> able to define that broadly) that we started this

> list.

>

> I'd argue that those feelings most people have

> about RAI fall into two categories--first and

> foremost, people here are simply concerned that RAI

> is handed over, without much thought on the part of

> physicians, as THE treatment option for Graves

> Disease.

>

> Second, many people believe that a significant

> minority--not all, but a significant group--suffer

> tremendously after RAI due to problems regarding

> under-medication and other less understood issues

> that may come from drinking radioactive material AND

> being, for most of us, permanently hypothyroid.

>

> My personal view on this list, is that we're

> pushing the envelope, helping to nudge along the

> medical and popular consiousness. Think fifty years

> ago when women were knocked out with drugs and 'had'

> babies. My own mom said she can't remember any of

> her three births because she was 'sleeping.' Just

> look at how women have changed the medical bith

> experience, largely by saying: we want to be

> informed, awake participants who control our bodies

> and decisions.

>

> We're doing that for thyroid problems and we're

> not alone -- there are all sorts of 'subversive'

> pockets questioning the standard treatments for

> hyperthyroidism. This is one of the few places

> people can go to for a different/alternative

> perspective on RAI. That doesn't inherently mean

> that we're right, but it's important that these

> opinions be out there so everyone can learn all

> sides surrounding an issue (not just both -- there

> are many sides and angles to each tx).

>

> Standard medical treatments have much to gain by

> remaining the same: doctors' have

> training/knowledge to preserve and pass on; drug

> companies have a stake, etc. It's not that there's

> a 'conspiracy' but that disciplines, by nature, try

> to maintain their right --and their right alone --

> to produce and control the knowledge of their

> discipline.

>

> So challenging that knowledge is threatening; but

> if the changes in childbirth experiences are any

> example, challenges are necessary.

>

> I could go on and on. Really, someday I will

> write that article on thyroid disease!

>

> B

>

>

>

> [Non-text portions of this message have been

> removed]

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

--- Kristi wrote:

> Hi,

> I'm new to this list and decided not to have RAI

> after two doctors suggested I have it. I wanted to

> put my two cents in here and say that I really

> appreciate the posts from people who have

> experienced RAI, whether positive or negative. I

> have two major reasons for deciding against RAI -

> One: I have two small children and am worried about

> any danger to them. Two: If GD is an auto immune

> disorder, how does zapping my thryoid with radiation

> cure the disease? My doctors are not telling me ANY

> drawbacks to RAI and I am so grateful to have found

> this forum and to hear some first hand accounts of

> ALL my choices. My doctors (two endos so far and

> two gp's) gave me two options, RAI and ATDs. I've

> since learned of alternative options, lifestyle and

> dietary changes and surgery. Thank you for

> disseminating such important information!

> Kristi

> negative discussion of

> RAI

>

>

> Hi all:

>

> Just a thought on this.

>

> It's true, that many of us have strong feelings

> about RAI treatment for Graves disease. Historical

> note for new people: many of us formed this list

> after feeling that the NGDF BB didn't allow a free

> discussion of the drawbacks to RAI, or a free

> discussion of alternative medicine, among other

> things.

>

> We felt so strongly about the need to discuss

> quality of care issues among ourselves (and to be

> able to define that broadly) that we started this

> list.

>

> I'd argue that those feelings most people have

> about RAI fall into two categories--first and

> foremost, people here are simply concerned that RAI

> is handed over, without much thought on the part of

> physicians, as THE treatment option for Graves

> Disease.

>

> Second, many people believe that a significant

> minority--not all, but a significant group--suffer

> tremendously after RAI due to problems regarding

> under-medication and other less understood issues

> that may come from drinking radioactive material AND

> being, for most of us, permanently hypothyroid.

>

> My personal view on this list, is that we're

> pushing the envelope, helping to nudge along the

> medical and popular consiousness. Think fifty years

> ago when women were knocked out with drugs and 'had'

> babies. My own mom said she can't remember any of

> her three births because she was 'sleeping.' Just

> look at how women have changed the medical bith

> experience, largely by saying: we want to be

> informed, awake participants who control our bodies

> and decisions.

>

> We're doing that for thyroid problems and we're

> not alone -- there are all sorts of 'subversive'

> pockets questioning the standard treatments for

> hyperthyroidism. This is one of the few places

> people can go to for a different/alternative

> perspective on RAI. That doesn't inherently mean

> that we're right, but it's important that these

> opinions be out there so everyone can learn all

> sides surrounding an issue (not just both -- there

> are many sides and angles to each tx).

>

> Standard medical treatments have much to gain by

> remaining the same: doctors' have

> training/knowledge to preserve and pass on; drug

> companies have a stake, etc. It's not that there's

> a 'conspiracy' but that disciplines, by nature, try

> to maintain their right --and their right alone --

> to produce and control the knowledge of their

> discipline.

>

> So challenging that knowledge is threatening; but

> if the changes in childbirth experiences are any

> example, challenges are necessary.

>

> I could go on and on. Really, someday I will

> write that article on thyroid disease!

>

> B

>

>

>

> [Non-text portions of this message have been

> removed]

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Kristi,

>>>Right now my biggest challenge seems to be changing my diet. I'm taking

>>>tapazole and proponal (sp?) and it's working well, except we're having

>>>trouble getting me to the right dose. I started with 40 mg a day and

>>>then went hypo so now my doctor has me on 10 mg a day. I think I might

>>>be going a little hyper again though, so I have another appointment next

>>>week to do some more blood work.<<<

For me, changing my diet was a slow process, since I hate changes anyhow,

but it has changed so much in the last 2 years *I* can't believe it! Had I

done it all at once I would not have stuck with my changes...so maybe baby

steps here will help. Also, if you are adding supplements, I had started

several at once, something really bothered my stomach and gave me a

headache, but, to this day, I don't know which one. I quit them all for

several months. When I started back up, I introduce one supplement at a

time, after 4-6 weeks I introduce another one. For my muscles, the one that

has helped me the most is my calcium/magnesium blend. I take 750 mg of

calcium/1500mg of magnesium and 200 mg. of Vitamin D daily. I just upped it

by 250/500 and it has helped a lot, anymore though and I would pay the piper

with the magnesium. Something to consider if your having muscle problems.

>>>It's amazing how pushy I've become. I think the last endo I had really

>>>got me to be more assertive. I was having horrible muscle pains and

>>>gaining all this weight and he kept telling me it was " unrelated to my

>>>condition " . <<< Don't you just love it when they tell us it is unrelated

>>>to our thyroids...GRRRRRRRR....my former primary felt a full Graves Rage,

>>>while I was very hypo for telling me that

>>>He even wanted me to raise my tapazole dose to 60mg a day. I'd hate to

>>>think what would have happened if I'd listened to him.<<<

Was he basing this on running a TSH to monitor you? Doctors should NEVER

use TSH to monitor those on ATD's (I think other than diagnostic it should

never be used anyhow) and increase your dose because of the levels.

>>>Anyway, it made me realize how little doctors seem to know about this.

>>>... Also, I want to feel better and I don't want to waste time with

>>>someone who knows less about this disease than I do.<<<

I think for many of us, we will continue to know more than our doctors

do...it is our bodies and we devote much time to learning everything we can

about this disease, the affects on our bodies, the treatments, everything we

can...and *we* all know that not any two of us is alike in where our labs

should be for any of us, finding the setpoints for us, everything can work

so differently from one person to the next. I think the biggest trick is to

find a doctor who understands this disease, actually knows how to monitor us

and who will learn FROM us, and pass on the information they learn or use it

with others. Then we have made a difference in those who come after us.

Too bad too many doctors think only *they* know it all.

>>>As for specific alternative therapies, I'm trying massage and dietary

>>>changes. My friend who's husband is a doctor suggest acupuncture, but I

>>>have to admit needles make me nervous.<<<

Terry ding in group is married to an accupuncturist and herbal medicines

doctor...she could offer you some reassurance. I haven't tried the

accupuncture yet, but my sister-in-law, who is terrified of doctors in

general, won't take medicine if it has to be injected, just went to one and

she told me she was surprised she felt no pain or discomfort at all! So you

may not want to rule that out. Also, I don't know which area of the coutry

you are in, but I am doing energy work on myself now (taught to me by my

sister) in the form of Jin Shin Jystu and it is making a big difference...if

you are in an area where you have a certified JSJ practitioner, you may want

to give this a try. I like it more when my sister is home and does it for

me ;-)

>>>I'm really focusing on reducing my stress level. I'm realizing how tense

>>>I've been for such a long time, unnecessary tension, you know? So I'm

>>>trying to do some things to calm down and enjoy life.<<<

Check the archives under and read some of her posts on how to reduce

stress and relaxing. They were so very helpful to me! I am not one who can

committ to blocking out huge amounts of time for things, and some of her

recommendations don't require a lot of time in the beginning. That is where

I started and now I just refuse to deal with stress, well the things I can

refuse to that is, there are always going to be stressful times/situations

in our lives, but I even deal with so much differently. Read 's post

you will be glad you did.

>>>I'm trying to make my home a haven. Does that sound ridiculous?<<<

Not at all, it sounds wonderful!

>>>One thing this group is helping me with, is the realization that I will

>>>have to take more control over my health and that it will take a while to

>>>get things going.<<<

Be patient and kind and gentle to yourself as you travel this journey.

Nothing about making the necessary changes to have better health is going to

be quick, no matter how much we want it to be. You have jumped a big hurdle

in realizing this already!

>>>I was a little disappointed to start feeling hyper again on 10 mg of tap,

>>>but after reading so many suggestions on here about gradually reducing

>>>dosages, it looks like I shouldn't be surprised by it since I went from

>>>40 mg to 10 mg overnight.<<<

Maybe all you will have to do is add 5 mg. to your regimen, or 2 1/2. Pill

cutters are available at every pharmacy and make cutting those pills so much

easier If you have to increase it, try doing it slowly, and then reduce

the same way, when your body and your labs tell you it's time. Pam and

Terry have really shown us how reducing slowly makes a huge difference.

Also, your propananol is a beta blocker, you will not be on this for very

long...when you are ready to come off of it, make sure you are WEANED from

it. I stress the weaning because, even though this is one of the cautions

listed for this med. a lot of doctors do not know this and will tell people

to just up and quit them...that can cause some problems...that is for you to

tuck away for when that day comes.

Take care, you are making milestones in your journey already!

Jody

_________________________________________________________________

Chat with friends online, try MSN Messenger: http://messenger.msn.com

[Guest guest]

Hi Kristi,

>>>Right now my biggest challenge seems to be changing my diet. I'm taking

>>>tapazole and proponal (sp?) and it's working well, except we're having

>>>trouble getting me to the right dose. I started with 40 mg a day and

>>>then went hypo so now my doctor has me on 10 mg a day. I think I might

>>>be going a little hyper again though, so I have another appointment next

>>>week to do some more blood work.<<<

For me, changing my diet was a slow process, since I hate changes anyhow,

but it has changed so much in the last 2 years *I* can't believe it! Had I

done it all at once I would not have stuck with my changes...so maybe baby

steps here will help. Also, if you are adding supplements, I had started

several at once, something really bothered my stomach and gave me a

headache, but, to this day, I don't know which one. I quit them all for

several months. When I started back up, I introduce one supplement at a

time, after 4-6 weeks I introduce another one. For my muscles, the one that

has helped me the most is my calcium/magnesium blend. I take 750 mg of

calcium/1500mg of magnesium and 200 mg. of Vitamin D daily. I just upped it

by 250/500 and it has helped a lot, anymore though and I would pay the piper

with the magnesium. Something to consider if your having muscle problems.

>>>It's amazing how pushy I've become. I think the last endo I had really

>>>got me to be more assertive. I was having horrible muscle pains and

>>>gaining all this weight and he kept telling me it was " unrelated to my

>>>condition " . <<< Don't you just love it when they tell us it is unrelated

>>>to our thyroids...GRRRRRRRR....my former primary felt a full Graves Rage,

>>>while I was very hypo for telling me that

>>>He even wanted me to raise my tapazole dose to 60mg a day. I'd hate to

>>>think what would have happened if I'd listened to him.<<<

Was he basing this on running a TSH to monitor you? Doctors should NEVER

use TSH to monitor those on ATD's (I think other than diagnostic it should

never be used anyhow) and increase your dose because of the levels.

>>>Anyway, it made me realize how little doctors seem to know about this.

>>>... Also, I want to feel better and I don't want to waste time with

>>>someone who knows less about this disease than I do.<<<

I think for many of us, we will continue to know more than our doctors

do...it is our bodies and we devote much time to learning everything we can

about this disease, the affects on our bodies, the treatments, everything we

can...and *we* all know that not any two of us is alike in where our labs

should be for any of us, finding the setpoints for us, everything can work

so differently from one person to the next. I think the biggest trick is to

find a doctor who understands this disease, actually knows how to monitor us

and who will learn FROM us, and pass on the information they learn or use it

with others. Then we have made a difference in those who come after us.

Too bad too many doctors think only *they* know it all.

>>>As for specific alternative therapies, I'm trying massage and dietary

>>>changes. My friend who's husband is a doctor suggest acupuncture, but I

>>>have to admit needles make me nervous.<<<

Terry ding in group is married to an accupuncturist and herbal medicines

doctor...she could offer you some reassurance. I haven't tried the

accupuncture yet, but my sister-in-law, who is terrified of doctors in

general, won't take medicine if it has to be injected, just went to one and

she told me she was surprised she felt no pain or discomfort at all! So you

may not want to rule that out. Also, I don't know which area of the coutry

you are in, but I am doing energy work on myself now (taught to me by my

sister) in the form of Jin Shin Jystu and it is making a big difference...if

you are in an area where you have a certified JSJ practitioner, you may want

to give this a try. I like it more when my sister is home and does it for

me ;-)

>>>I'm really focusing on reducing my stress level. I'm realizing how tense

>>>I've been for such a long time, unnecessary tension, you know? So I'm

>>>trying to do some things to calm down and enjoy life.<<<

Check the archives under and read some of her posts on how to reduce

stress and relaxing. They were so very helpful to me! I am not one who can

committ to blocking out huge amounts of time for things, and some of her

recommendations don't require a lot of time in the beginning. That is where

I started and now I just refuse to deal with stress, well the things I can

refuse to that is, there are always going to be stressful times/situations

in our lives, but I even deal with so much differently. Read 's post

you will be glad you did.

>>>I'm trying to make my home a haven. Does that sound ridiculous?<<<

Not at all, it sounds wonderful!

>>>One thing this group is helping me with, is the realization that I will

>>>have to take more control over my health and that it will take a while to

>>>get things going.<<<

Be patient and kind and gentle to yourself as you travel this journey.

Nothing about making the necessary changes to have better health is going to

be quick, no matter how much we want it to be. You have jumped a big hurdle

in realizing this already!

>>>I was a little disappointed to start feeling hyper again on 10 mg of tap,

>>>but after reading so many suggestions on here about gradually reducing

>>>dosages, it looks like I shouldn't be surprised by it since I went from

>>>40 mg to 10 mg overnight.<<<

Maybe all you will have to do is add 5 mg. to your regimen, or 2 1/2. Pill

cutters are available at every pharmacy and make cutting those pills so much

easier If you have to increase it, try doing it slowly, and then reduce

the same way, when your body and your labs tell you it's time. Pam and

Terry have really shown us how reducing slowly makes a huge difference.

Also, your propananol is a beta blocker, you will not be on this for very

long...when you are ready to come off of it, make sure you are WEANED from

it. I stress the weaning because, even though this is one of the cautions

listed for this med. a lot of doctors do not know this and will tell people

to just up and quit them...that can cause some problems...that is for you to

tuck away for when that day comes.

Take care, you are making milestones in your journey already!

Jody

_________________________________________________________________

Chat with friends online, try MSN Messenger: http://messenger.msn.com

[Guest guest]

Hi Kristi,

>>>Right now my biggest challenge seems to be changing my diet. I'm taking

>>>tapazole and proponal (sp?) and it's working well, except we're having

>>>trouble getting me to the right dose. I started with 40 mg a day and

>>>then went hypo so now my doctor has me on 10 mg a day. I think I might

>>>be going a little hyper again though, so I have another appointment next

>>>week to do some more blood work.<<<

For me, changing my diet was a slow process, since I hate changes anyhow,

but it has changed so much in the last 2 years *I* can't believe it! Had I

done it all at once I would not have stuck with my changes...so maybe baby

steps here will help. Also, if you are adding supplements, I had started

several at once, something really bothered my stomach and gave me a

headache, but, to this day, I don't know which one. I quit them all for

several months. When I started back up, I introduce one supplement at a

time, after 4-6 weeks I introduce another one. For my muscles, the one that

has helped me the most is my calcium/magnesium blend. I take 750 mg of

calcium/1500mg of magnesium and 200 mg. of Vitamin D daily. I just upped it

by 250/500 and it has helped a lot, anymore though and I would pay the piper

with the magnesium. Something to consider if your having muscle problems.

>>>It's amazing how pushy I've become. I think the last endo I had really

>>>got me to be more assertive. I was having horrible muscle pains and

>>>gaining all this weight and he kept telling me it was " unrelated to my

>>>condition " . <<< Don't you just love it when they tell us it is unrelated

>>>to our thyroids...GRRRRRRRR....my former primary felt a full Graves Rage,

>>>while I was very hypo for telling me that

>>>He even wanted me to raise my tapazole dose to 60mg a day. I'd hate to

>>>think what would have happened if I'd listened to him.<<<

Was he basing this on running a TSH to monitor you? Doctors should NEVER

use TSH to monitor those on ATD's (I think other than diagnostic it should

never be used anyhow) and increase your dose because of the levels.

>>>Anyway, it made me realize how little doctors seem to know about this.

>>>... Also, I want to feel better and I don't want to waste time with

>>>someone who knows less about this disease than I do.<<<

I think for many of us, we will continue to know more than our doctors

do...it is our bodies and we devote much time to learning everything we can

about this disease, the affects on our bodies, the treatments, everything we

can...and *we* all know that not any two of us is alike in where our labs

should be for any of us, finding the setpoints for us, everything can work

so differently from one person to the next. I think the biggest trick is to

find a doctor who understands this disease, actually knows how to monitor us

and who will learn FROM us, and pass on the information they learn or use it

with others. Then we have made a difference in those who come after us.

Too bad too many doctors think only *they* know it all.

>>>As for specific alternative therapies, I'm trying massage and dietary

>>>changes. My friend who's husband is a doctor suggest acupuncture, but I

>>>have to admit needles make me nervous.<<<

Terry ding in group is married to an accupuncturist and herbal medicines

doctor...she could offer you some reassurance. I haven't tried the

accupuncture yet, but my sister-in-law, who is terrified of doctors in

general, won't take medicine if it has to be injected, just went to one and

she told me she was surprised she felt no pain or discomfort at all! So you

may not want to rule that out. Also, I don't know which area of the coutry

you are in, but I am doing energy work on myself now (taught to me by my

sister) in the form of Jin Shin Jystu and it is making a big difference...if

you are in an area where you have a certified JSJ practitioner, you may want

to give this a try. I like it more when my sister is home and does it for

me ;-)

>>>I'm really focusing on reducing my stress level. I'm realizing how tense

>>>I've been for such a long time, unnecessary tension, you know? So I'm

>>>trying to do some things to calm down and enjoy life.<<<

Check the archives under and read some of her posts on how to reduce

stress and relaxing. They were so very helpful to me! I am not one who can

committ to blocking out huge amounts of time for things, and some of her

recommendations don't require a lot of time in the beginning. That is where

I started and now I just refuse to deal with stress, well the things I can

refuse to that is, there are always going to be stressful times/situations

in our lives, but I even deal with so much differently. Read 's post

you will be glad you did.

>>>I'm trying to make my home a haven. Does that sound ridiculous?<<<

Not at all, it sounds wonderful!

>>>One thing this group is helping me with, is the realization that I will

>>>have to take more control over my health and that it will take a while to

>>>get things going.<<<

Be patient and kind and gentle to yourself as you travel this journey.

Nothing about making the necessary changes to have better health is going to

be quick, no matter how much we want it to be. You have jumped a big hurdle

in realizing this already!

>>>I was a little disappointed to start feeling hyper again on 10 mg of tap,

>>>but after reading so many suggestions on here about gradually reducing

>>>dosages, it looks like I shouldn't be surprised by it since I went from

>>>40 mg to 10 mg overnight.<<<

Maybe all you will have to do is add 5 mg. to your regimen, or 2 1/2. Pill

cutters are available at every pharmacy and make cutting those pills so much

easier If you have to increase it, try doing it slowly, and then reduce

the same way, when your body and your labs tell you it's time. Pam and

Terry have really shown us how reducing slowly makes a huge difference.

Also, your propananol is a beta blocker, you will not be on this for very

long...when you are ready to come off of it, make sure you are WEANED from

it. I stress the weaning because, even though this is one of the cautions

listed for this med. a lot of doctors do not know this and will tell people

to just up and quit them...that can cause some problems...that is for you to

tuck away for when that day comes.

Take care, you are making milestones in your journey already!

Jody

_________________________________________________________________

Chat with friends online, try MSN Messenger: http://messenger.msn.com

[Guest guest]

Hi Barbara,

>>>The doc's don't tell u everything we believe what we hear. Sorry to be

>>>negative but if u want to exchange any information e-mail me.<<<

HEAR HEAR...they sure don't tell us everything! And don't be sorry about

being negative about it. I am the most cyncical and at times sarcastic

person on this board when it comes to I-131!

Are you the Barbara that posted on about.com a couple of weeks ago?

Also, you may want to put your message on top of e-mails before sending them

out....much easier to catch If you need help with that, feel free to

e-mail me.

Jody

_________________________________________________________________

MSN Photos is the easiest way to share and print your photos:

http://photos.msn.com/support/worldwide.aspx

[Guest guest]

Hi Barbara,

>>>The doc's don't tell u everything we believe what we hear. Sorry to be

>>>negative but if u want to exchange any information e-mail me.<<<

HEAR HEAR...they sure don't tell us everything! And don't be sorry about

being negative about it. I am the most cyncical and at times sarcastic

person on this board when it comes to I-131!

Are you the Barbara that posted on about.com a couple of weeks ago?

Also, you may want to put your message on top of e-mails before sending them

out....much easier to catch If you need help with that, feel free to

e-mail me.

Jody

_________________________________________________________________

MSN Photos is the easiest way to share and print your photos:

http://photos.msn.com/support/worldwide.aspx

[Guest guest]

Hi Barbara,

>>>The doc's don't tell u everything we believe what we hear. Sorry to be

>>>negative but if u want to exchange any information e-mail me.<<<

HEAR HEAR...they sure don't tell us everything! And don't be sorry about

being negative about it. I am the most cyncical and at times sarcastic

person on this board when it comes to I-131!

Are you the Barbara that posted on about.com a couple of weeks ago?

Also, you may want to put your message on top of e-mails before sending them

out....much easier to catch If you need help with that, feel free to

e-mail me.

Jody

_________________________________________________________________

MSN Photos is the easiest way to share and print your photos:

http://photos.msn.com/support/worldwide.aspx

[Guest guest]

Hi Kristi & Jody,

Yes acupuncture is an intense experience. It doesn't exactly hurt--not like

getting poked with a needle hurts--because the needles are so very thin.

They're so thin that a plastic tube keeps 'em straight while they are being

inserted. A good practitioner, using good quality (disposable! only)

needles, should be able to insert the needles in most places (most meaning,

for instance, not the sole of the foot which hurts like **!! cause it's so

tough--not that it's used much) without causing pain. However, if there

isn't a " zing " after the needle goes in--kind of like a little electrical

feeling when it is stimulated by gentle twisting--the needle's not doing

much good. No sensation means either it's in the wrong place, or for some

people, they're just so sick that they don't feel anything. But you have to

be pretty bad off to get to that state.

I do receive acupuncture--my back wouldn't allow me to work in the food biz

without it for one thing--but mostly I find the Chinese herbal medicine

approach to be most beneficial for me with GD. My husband-the-acupuncturist

is a very careful, studious and involved herbalist, and I trust him totally.

He knows, for instance, not to go along with recommendations (I've seen this

in several Chinese texts) to add kelp or other iodine containing herbs when

treating GD. Others might not know that, depending on their experience and

ability to delve deeply into the literature for conditions they're treating.

The herbs don't do everything, but they certainly have made my experience of

this disease less stressful on my mind and body than what I read from many

here. I can maintain a pretty even state, most of the time.

A good Chinese herbalist treats each individual, based on the whole of that

person's needs--so I may have different herbs (and for that matter

acupuncture treatments) than someone who comes in with the same main

symptoms.

Terry

>

> Reply-To: graves_support

> Date: Tue, 16 Apr 2002 14:38:22 -0400

> To: graves_support

> Subject: Re: negative discussion of RAI

>

>> As for specific alternative therapies, I'm trying massage and dietary

>>>> changes. My friend who's husband is a doctor suggest acupuncture, but I

>>>> have to admit needles make me nervous.<<<

>

> Terry ding in group is married to an accupuncturist and herbal medicines

> doctor...she could offer you some reassurance. I haven't tried the

> accupuncture yet, but my sister-in-law, who is terrified of doctors in

> general, won't take medicine if it has to be injected, just went to one and

> she told me she was surprised she felt no pain or discomfort at all! So you

> may not want to rule that out. Also, I don't know which area of the coutry

> you are in, but I am doing energy work on myself now (taught to me by my

> sister) in the form of Jin Shin Jystu and it is making a big difference...if

> you are in an area where you have a certified JSJ practitioner, you may want

> to give this a try. I like it more when my sister is home and does it for

> me ;-)

[Guest guest]

--- Jody Spitale wrote:

> Hi Barbara,

> >>>The doc's don't tell u everything we believe what

> we hear. Sorry to be

> >>>negative but if u want to exchange any

> information e-mail me.<<<

>

> HEAR HEAR...they sure don't tell us everything! And

> don't be sorry about

> being negative about it. I am the most cyncical and

> at times sarcastic

> person on this board when it comes to I-131!

>

> Are you the Barbara that posted on about.com a

> couple of weeks ago?

> Also, you may want to put your message on top of

> e-mails before sending them

> out....much easier to catch If you need help

> with that, feel free to

> e-mail me.

> Jody

>

> Hi Jody,

Yes I am the Barbara that posted the message on

about.com I guess I did something wrong. If u could

guide me as u did with joining the group I would

appreciate it. I think i did something wrong again

after following your original instructions I am now

getting a lot of e-mails from people from the group

that are involved corresponding with each other these

are also coming to me. Is that how it works? Thanks

for helping.

Best, Barb

>

>

>

>

_________________________________________________________________

> MSN Photos is the easiest way to share and print

> your photos:

> http://photos.msn.com/support/worldwide.aspx

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

--- Jody Spitale wrote:

> Hi Barbara,

> >>>The doc's don't tell u everything we believe what

> we hear. Sorry to be

> >>>negative but if u want to exchange any

> information e-mail me.<<<

>

> HEAR HEAR...they sure don't tell us everything! And

> don't be sorry about

> being negative about it. I am the most cyncical and

> at times sarcastic

> person on this board when it comes to I-131!

>

> Are you the Barbara that posted on about.com a

> couple of weeks ago?

> Also, you may want to put your message on top of

> e-mails before sending them

> out....much easier to catch If you need help

> with that, feel free to

> e-mail me.

> Jody

>

> Hi Jody,

Yes I am the Barbara that posted the message on

about.com I guess I did something wrong. If u could

guide me as u did with joining the group I would

appreciate it. I think i did something wrong again

after following your original instructions I am now

getting a lot of e-mails from people from the group

that are involved corresponding with each other these

are also coming to me. Is that how it works? Thanks

for helping.

Best, Barb

>

>

>

>

_________________________________________________________________

> MSN Photos is the easiest way to share and print

> your photos:

> http://photos.msn.com/support/worldwide.aspx

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

--- Jody Spitale wrote:

> Hi Barbara,

> >>>The doc's don't tell u everything we believe what

> we hear. Sorry to be

> >>>negative but if u want to exchange any

> information e-mail me.<<<

>

> HEAR HEAR...they sure don't tell us everything! And

> don't be sorry about

> being negative about it. I am the most cyncical and

> at times sarcastic

> person on this board when it comes to I-131!

>

> Are you the Barbara that posted on about.com a

> couple of weeks ago?

> Also, you may want to put your message on top of

> e-mails before sending them

> out....much easier to catch If you need help

> with that, feel free to

> e-mail me.

> Jody

>

> Hi Jody,

Yes I am the Barbara that posted the message on

about.com I guess I did something wrong. If u could

guide me as u did with joining the group I would

appreciate it. I think i did something wrong again

after following your original instructions I am now

getting a lot of e-mails from people from the group

that are involved corresponding with each other these

are also coming to me. Is that how it works? Thanks

for helping.

Best, Barb

>

>

>

>

_________________________________________________________________

> MSN Photos is the easiest way to share and print

> your photos:

> http://photos.msn.com/support/worldwide.aspx

>

>

>