The cost of such treatment varies depending on your personal health needs and your health insurance policy, as well as the policy of the physician or hospital administering the treatment.
Radioactive iodine is a treatment option used for those with hyperthyroidism and the thyroid autoimmune condition Graves' disease. Radioactive iodine treatment can also be used for those dealing with thyroid cancer. It is given orally, usually in a capsule form, and absorbed in the bloodstream. It then enters the thyroid gland and gradually destroys the thyroid cells, which will cause the thyroid to become hypothyroid.Related Article: Radioactive Iodine Treatment and Hyperthyroidism
Radioactive iodine treatment involves ingesting a radioactive form of iodine that is absorbed by the thyroid gland. The radiation emitted by the iodine destroys thyroid cells, which can be beneficial for treating conditions such as hyperthyroidism and thyroid cancer. It is a common and effective treatment option with low risks and side effects.
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Radiation treatment for hyperthyroidism is meant to take effect gradually. According to ThyroidAwareness.com, "The radioactive iodine is given by mouth, usually in capsule form, and is quickly absorbed from the bowel. It then enters the thyroid cells from the bloodstream and gradually destroys them. Maximal benefit is usually noted within three to six months."
It is not recommended to smoke while on radioactive iodine treatment as smoking can increase the risk of side effects and complications. It is best to follow your healthcare provider's instructions and avoid smoking during this treatment.
It is recommended to avoid alcohol for a few days both before and after receiving radioactive iodine treatment, as alcohol can interfere with the medication's effectiveness and increase the risk of side effects. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding drinking alcohol during radioactive iodine treatment.
Addison's disease is treated using the oral administration of radioactive iodine to destroy thyroid cells.
Radioactive iodine is taken up by the thyroid gland because it is the only tissue in the body that can absorb and store iodine to make thyroid hormones. Other tissues do not have this ability, so they are not affected by radioactive iodine treatment.
Iodine-131 (not iodone) is a radioactive isotope of iodine: this isotope has important applications in the treatment of thyroid diseases.
It's generally recommended to avoid using hair dye before radioactive iodine treatment. Hair dye can contain certain chemicals that might interfere with the treatment or affect the thyroid's ability to absorb the radioactive iodine. It's best to consult your healthcare provider for specific guidance based on your individual situation.
The cure or treatment for hyperthyroidism depends entirely upon its cause. For example:Iodine toxicity hyperthyroidism may be "cured" by decreasing iodine levels in the food eatenA *hot* nodule may be "cured" by removal.Autoimmune hyperthyroidism cannot be cured however, because the problem is not the thyroid, but the antibodies that are stimulating the thyroid to overproduce. Ablating or removing the thyroid removes the excess hormones, but not the antibodies which may also attack other areas of the body including bones, brain, skin, eyes, etc. This type of hyperthyroidism is treated, not cured.
Common symptoms of hyperthyroidism include weight loss, increased appetite, rapid heartbeat, sweating, and diarrhea. To manage these symptoms effectively, treatment options may include medications to regulate thyroid hormone levels, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery to remove part of the thyroid gland. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.