Treatment FAQ

how does radioactive iodine treatment for graves disease work

by Garfield Boyle Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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With this therapy, you take radioactive iodine (radioiodine) by mouth. Because the thyroid needs iodine to produce hormones, the thyroid takes the radioiodine into the thyroid cells and the radiation destroys the overactive thyroid cells over time.

Does radioactive iodine treatment cure Graves disease?

In conclusion, the first published Australian series has confirmed radioiodine is a safe and effective definitive treatment for Graves' Disease. Most patients become hypothyroid following a single dose of I131, with a single dose of radioiodine resulting in long-term remission from Graves' disease in 79%.

What happens after radioactive iodine treatment for Graves disease?

Over two-thirds of those who have radioactive iodine treatment will develop hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid). This can occur anytime from one month after the treatment and is most common within the first 12 months after treatment but can occur later.

Can Graves disease return after radioactive iodine treatment?

Abstract. The use of radioactive iodine (131I) in the treatment of Graves' disease results frequently in hypothyroidism requiring thyroid hormone supplementation. Relapse of Graves' disease months after inadequate treatment with 131I is well-recognized.

How long does it take for radioactive iodine to work for hyperthyroidism?

It is concentrated from the blood by the thyroid gland, where it begins destroying the gland's cells. Although the radioactivity remains in the thyroid for some time, it is greatly diminished within a few days. The effect of this treatment on the thyroid gland usually takes between one and three months to develop.

What is the life expectancy with Graves disease?

Long-term prognosis6 months1 yearWomen76.667.8Men81.678.9Age (median)<47 years80.976.228 more rows

Will I gain weight after radioactive iodine treatment?

Treatment of hyperthyroidism with RAI or anti-thyroid medications is associated with an increased risk of gaining weight and even developing obesity. This risk is slightly higher with RAI therapy compared to medications.

What are the long term side effects of radioactive iodine?

Possible long term side effectsAbility to have children (fertility) Some women may have irregular periods after radioactive iodine treatment. ... Inflammation of the salivary glands (where spit is made) ... Tiredness. ... Dry or watery eyes. ... Lower levels of blood cells. ... Lung problems. ... Second cancers.

Can Graves disease come out of remission?

Even if the disease goes into remission after anti-thyroid treatment, it can come back. Follow-up appointments to check thyroid activity usually are scheduled once every six months for the first two years after the disease goes into remission.

Can your thyroid regenerate after radioactive iodine?

Once hypothyroidism has been achieved, it is usually irreversible with the patient requiring lifelong thyroid replacement. Recurrence of hyperthyroidism after RAI therapy may be due to inadequate dosing or early Marine Lenhart syndrome.

How long is isolation after radioactive iodine?

Sleep alone for 7 days unless otherwise instructed by your doctor. Avoid kissing and physical contact with others, and maintain a distance of at least 3 feet from women who are pregnant and children under 18 years old.

What can you not do after radioactive iodine treatment?

The radiation will pass out of your body through your urine within days. Until that time, you will give off radiation in your sweat, your saliva, your urine, and anything else that comes out of your body. It is important to avoid exposing other people to the radioactivity from your body.

Does radioactive iodine treatment shorten your life?

Quality of life is worse at 6-10 years after radioactive iodine therapy of Graves' disease compared with treatment with antithyroid drugs or surgery. Quality of life is worse at 6-10 years after radioactive iodine therapy of Graves' disease compared with treatment with antithyroid drugs or surgery.

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