Treatment FAQ

what is hyperthyroidism treatment

by Mrs. Elouise Metz Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Doctors use anti-thyroid medications and radioactive iodine to slow the production of thyroid hormones. Sometimes, hyperthyroidism treatment involves surgery to remove all or part of your thyroid gland.Nov 14, 2020

Medication

Hyperthyroidism caused by overproduction of thyroid hormones can be treated with antithyroid medications (methimazole and propylthiouracil), radioactive iodine ablation of the thyroid gland, or surgical thyroidectomy. Radioactive iodine ablation is the most widely used treatment in the United States. The choice of treatment depends on the underlying diagnosis, the presence of …

Procedures

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include a rapid heartbeat, weight loss, increased appetite and anxiety. Hyperthyroidism can be treated with antithyroid drugs, radioactive iodine, beta blockers and surgery. Appointments 216.444.6568 Appointments & Locations Contact Us Symptoms and Causes Diagnosis and Tests Management and Treatment Prevention

Therapy

Jan 18, 2020 · Radioactive iodine is the most common treatment for hyperthyroidism. This treatment is where patients are given a pill containing actual radioactive iodine. When you take this pill the radioactive iodine is processed by your thyroid, and the thyroid dies.

Self-care

Apr 06, 2022 · Thionamides have been used to treat hyperthyroidism for decades, and are considered safe for both children and adults, including pregnant people. Anti-thyroid medications can have uncomfortable...

Nutrition

Hyperthyroidism treatment. In hyperthyroidism, the thyroid produces too much thyroid hormone. Symptoms include irregular heartbeat, weight loss and sweating. The condition is diagnosed using laboratory tests. Book online. or call 030 6000*.

What is the best over the counter treatment for hypothyroidism?

Aug 27, 2020 · When you are first diagnosed with hyperthyroidism the goal of treatment is to SLOW down the thyroid. This is typically accomplished one of 3 ways (and sometimes a combination are used). #1. Anti-thyroid medication. The first step is almost always to start taking something called anti-thyroid medication.

What is the best diet for someone with hypothyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism Treatment Your doctor will help you decide on a treatment based on your age, your overall health, the kind of hyperthyroidism you have, and how severe it …

How to naturally treat hyperthyroidism?

Treatment Antithyroid drugs. Thyrostatics ( antithyroid drugs) are drugs that inhibit the production of thyroid hormones, such as... Beta-blockers. Many of the common symptoms of hyperthyroidism such as palpitations, trembling, and anxiety are mediated... Diet. People with autoimmune hyperthyroidism ...

Can hyperthyroidism go away on its own?

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What is the most common treatment for hyperthyroidism?

Radioactive iodine is the most widely-recommended permanent treatment of hyperthyroidism. This treatment takes advantage of the fact that thyroid cells are the only cells in the body which have the ability to absorb iodine. In fact, thyroid hormones are experts at doing just that.Jun 25, 2021

What are 3 treatments for hyperthyroidism?

TreatmentRadioactive iodine. Taken by mouth, radioactive iodine is absorbed by your thyroid gland, where it causes the gland to shrink. ... Anti-thyroid medications. ... Beta blockers. ... Surgery (thyroidectomy).Nov 14, 2020

Can hyperthyroidism be cured?

Can hyperthyroidism be cured? Yes, there is a permanent treatment for hyperthyroidism. Removing your thyroid through surgery or destroying your thyroid through medication will cure hyperthyroidism.Oct 19, 2021

What is the fastest way to cure hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism treatmentRadioactive iodine. You take a pill or liquid by mouth. ... Anti-thyroid medicine. These drugs tell your thyroid to produce fewer hormones. ... Surgery. A thyroidectomy is when the doctor removes most of your thyroid gland. ... Beta blockers. These drugs slow your heart rate and reduce tremors and anxiety.Apr 22, 2020

What happens if you don't treat hyperthyroidism?

Untreated hyperthyroidism can also lead to weak, brittle bones (osteoporosis). The strength of your bones depends, in part, on the amount of calcium and other minerals they contain. Too much thyroid hormone interferes with your body's ability to incorporate calcium into your bones. Eye problems.Nov 14, 2020

What are early warning signs of thyroid problems?

7 Early Warning Signs of Thyroid IssuesFatigue.Weight gain.Weight loss.Slowed heart rate.Increased heart rate.Sensitivity to heat.Sensitivity to cold.Jan 11, 2021

How do you feel when you have hyperthyroidism?

When you first get hyperthyroidism, you may feel energetic. This is because your metabolism is sped up. But over time, this increase in your metabolism can break your body down and cause you to feel tired. Usually, hyperthyroidism develops slowly.Sep 23, 2021

Is hyperthyroidism a lifelong disease?

For many people, hyperthyroidism is a chronic, or lifelong, condition. Once it's treated, you must recheck your thyroid levels to ensure you're getting the correct amount of medication.

What causes hyperthyroid?

Graves' disease, the most common cause of hyperthyroidism, is an autoimmune disorder. With this disease, your immune system attacks the thyroid and causes it to make too much thyroid hormone.

Can hyperthyroidism be cured without surgery?

Mild hyperthyroidism may get better on its own, without treatment. In most cases, though, the symptoms get worse without treatment. Taking medication is sometimes enough to keep the symptoms under control.Apr 19, 2018

How do you sleep with hyperthyroidism?

Here are some tips to try.Keep your bedroom cool. “A comfortable bedroom temperature is important, especially while you're in the process of getting your thyroid regulated,” Rosenberg says. ... Embrace the dark. ... Calm down. ... Sleep in a comfy bed. ... Avoid nighttime feasts. ... Have a small snack instead. ... De-stress.Nov 21, 2019

What causes hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism is an excessive concentration of thyroid hormones in tissues caused by increased synthesis of thyroid hormones, excessive release of preformed thyroid hormones, or an endogenous or exogenous extra thyroidal source. The most common causes of an excessive production of thyroid hormones are Graves disease, toxic multinodular goiter, ...

What causes excessive thyroid hormone production?

The most common causes of an excessive production of thyroid hormones …. Hyperthyroidism is an excessive concentration of thyroid hormones in tissues caused by increased synthesis of thyroid hormones , excessive release of preformed thyroid hormones, or an endogenous or exogenous extrathyroidal source. The most common causes of an excessive ...

What causes thyroid hormones to be released?

The most common causes of an excessive production of thyroid hormones are Graves disease, toxic multinodular goiter, and toxic adenoma. The most common cause of an excessive passive release of thyroid hormones is painless (silent) thyroiditis, although its clinical presentation is the same as with other causes.

What is the best treatment for hypothyroidism?

Standard treatment for hypothyroidism involves daily use of the synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine (Levo-T, Synthroid, others). This oral medication restores adequate hormone levels, reversing the signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism. You'll likely start to feel better soon after you start treatment.

What does a low TSH level mean?

A low level of thyroxine and high level of TSH indicate an underactive thyroid. That's because your pituitary produces more TSH in an effort to stimulate your thyroid gland ...

Why do you need a TSH test?

TSH tests also play an important role in managing hypothyroidism. They help your doctor determine the right dosage of medication, both initially and over time. In addition, TSH tests are used to help diagnose a condition called subclinical hypothyroidism, which usually causes no outward signs or symptoms.

What happens if you change your brand of meds?

If you change brands, let your doctor know to ensure you're still receiving the right dosage. Also, don't skip doses or stop taking the drug because you're feeling better. If you do, the symptoms of hypothyroidism will gradually return.

What are the side effects of a thyroid medication?

Excessive amounts of the hormone can cause side effects, such as: Increased appetite. Insomnia. Heart palpitations. Shakiness. If you have coronary artery disease or severe hypothyroidism, your doctor may start treatment with a smaller amount of medication and gradually increase the dosage.

Does levothyroxine help with weight gain?

The medication gradually lowers cholesterol levels elevated by the disease and may reverse any weight gain. Treatment with levothyroxine will likely be lifelong, but because the dosage you need may change, your doctor is likely to check your TSH level every year.

What to do before a pre-appointment appointment?

At the time you make the appointment, be sure to ask if there's anything you need to do in advance. Write down any symptoms you're experiencing, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason for which you scheduled the appointment.

What is the name of the condition where the thyroid releases more hormones than it needs?

Hyperthyroidism is a condition where your thyroid creates and releases more hormones to your body than you need. This is also called an overactive thyroid. The main hormones made by the thyroid include triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). Having hyperthyroidism can impact your entire body.

How to diagnose hyperthyroidism?

Your healthcare provider will diagnose hyperthyroidism in several ways, including: A physical exam of your neck to see if the thyroid is larger than normal. Blood tests to look for high levels of thyroid hormone in your body. Imaging tests to look at your thyroid.

What is the name of the condition where the thyroid releases high levels of thyroid hormone into the body?

Hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism, also called overactive thyroid, is a condition where the thyroid releases high levels of thyroid hormone into the body. This condition can make your metabolism speed up. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include a rapid heartbeat, weight loss, increased appetite and anxiety. Hyperthyroidism can be treated ...

What is the test for thyroid function?

Blood Tests . Your healthcare provider may take a blood sample to look for high levels of thyroid hormone. This is called thyroid function testing. When you have hyperthyroidism, levels of the thyroid hormones T3 and T4 are above normal and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) is lower than normal.

What is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism?

Graves’ disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism, making up about 85% of cases. Thyroid nodules: A thyroid nodule is a lump or growth of cells in the thyroid gland. The nodule is able to produce more hormones than your body needs. Such nodules are rarely cancerous.

Can hyperthyroidism cause irregular periods?

One of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism in women can be irregular menstrual cycles (periods). The imbalance of thyroid hormone can impact all parts of your body. Some women actually start reaching out to their healthcare provider because of issues becoming pregnant and then learn about a thyroid condition.

Can you get hypothyroidism from hyperthyroidism?

You can get hypothyroidism (a condition where your body doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone) from hyperthyroidism treatments. This is sometimes the goal of a healthcare provider. In hypothyroidism, the amount of thyroid hormone needs to be boosted. This can be done with medications that you regularly take.

What causes thyroid problems?

The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is Graves disease, an autoimmune disease where the thyrotropin receptor antibody (TRAb) causes an overproduction of thyroid hormones.

What does it mean when your thyroid is producing too much thyroxine?

While hyperthyroidism means that the thyroid is producing too much thyroxine, in hypothyroidism, the thyroid is producing too little thyroxine. Thyroxine or T4 is the inactive hormone produced by your thyroid. Hyperthyroidism can alternate with hypothyroid symptoms, which can make it confusing for patients.

How do beta blockers work?

Beta Blockers. Beta Blockers work by blocking the stimulatory effect of excitatory neurotransmitters, so they don’t affect thyroid levels directly. However, they are often prescribed to help with the rapid heart rate and racing heartbeat issues that many patients with hyperthyroidism experience.

How to treat hyperthyroidism?

Traditional treatment for hyperthyroidism can include medication and surgery. If the thyroid is completely removed, technically hyperthyroidism is reversed, however, now the patient has hypothyroidism and has to be on levothyroxine (synthetic thyroid hormone) for life.

What are the symptoms of hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism symptoms can include unexplained weight loss, heart palpitations, diarrhea, anxiety, insomnia, and excessive sweating. This is a condition most commonly caused by antibodies that stimulate the thyroid gland to produce too much thyroid hormone in what is called Grave’s disease. In this article we'll explore conventional treatments ...

How to help thyroid over producing hormones?

When your thyroid is over-producing hormones, your entire body can become depleted of nutrients. Testing for nutrient deficiencies can help you understand your needs. Be extremely mindful of your diet — eat nutrient-dense foods. Include lots of vegetables and pasture-raised proteins in your diet.

What is the most common treatment for hyperthyroidism?

Radioactive iodine is the most common treatment for hyperthyroidism. This treatment is where patients are given a pill containing actual radioactive iodine. When you take this pill the radioactive iodine is processed by your thyroid, and the thyroid dies.

What is the TSH test?

Thyroid stimulating hormone level test. Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) is a pituitary gland hormone that stimulates the thyroid gland to produce hormones. When thyroid hormone levels are normal or high, your TSH should be lower. An abnormally low TSH can be the first sign of hyperthyroidism.

What is the thyroid gland?

What is hyperthyroidism? Hyperthyroidism is a condition of the thyroid. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of your neck. It produces tetraiodothyronine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which are two primary hormones that control how your cells use energy.

Why is thyroid storm bad?

Stress or infections can cause thyroid storm. Thyroid storm happens when a large amount of thyroid hormone is released and it results in a sudden worsening of symptoms. Treatment is important to prevent thyroid storm, thyrotoxicosis, and other complications. The long-term outlook for hyperthyroidism depends on its cause.

How to tell if you have hyperthyroidism?

Your first step in diagnosis is to get a complete medical history and physical exam. This can reveal these common signs of hyperthyroidism: 1 weight loss 2 rapid pulse 3 elevated blood pressure 4 protruding eyes 5 enlarged thyroid gland

What are the symptoms of breast development in men?

The following symptoms require immediate medical attention: dizziness. shortness of breath. loss of consciousness. fast, irregular heart rate. Hyperthyroidism can also cause atrial fibrillation, a dangerous arrhythmia that can lead to strokes, as well as congestive heart failure.

Why does Graves disease happen more often in women than men?

Graves’ disease occurs more often in women than in men. It tends to run in families, which suggests a genetic link. You should tell your doctor if your relatives have had the condition. Other causes of hyperthyroidism include: thyroiditis, or inflammation of the thyroid, which causes T4 and T3 to leak out of the gland.

What causes hyperthyroidism in women?

A variety of conditions can cause hyperthyroidism. Graves’ disease , an autoimmune disorder, is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. It causes antibodies to stimulate the thyroid to secrete too much hormone. Graves’ disease occurs more often in women than in men. It tends to run in families, which suggests a genetic link.

What to do if you have had your thyroid removed?

If you have had your thyroid removed then you will be required to take thyroid medication for the rest of your life . #3. Radioactive iodine ablation (RAI). Another option that is often used in place of surgical removal of the thyroid gland is known as radioactive iodine ablation or RAI .

What is the best treatment for hyperthyroidism?

Because of this, and unless you can reverse your hyperthyroidism naturally, you will be forced to choose one (or both) of the following options: #2. Thyroid surgery (Thyroidectomy). Thyroid surgery is considered more of a 'final' or 'complete' solution for hyperthyroidism as it completely eliminates the problem.

How to slow down thyroid?

This is typically accomplished one of 3 ways (and sometimes a combination are used). #1. Anti-thyroid medication. The first step is almost always to start taking something called anti-thyroid medication.

How to heal a thyroid?

Diet. The first natural therapy that you should look at is your diet . The foods that you put into your mouth have a profound effect on your body and your thyroid. The foods you eat can either reduce inflammation or cause inflammation. They can either upset your stomach or help heal your gut.

What is a cure in medicine?

From the patient perspective, a cure is usually meant to describe a condition in which the disease state is completely reversed and the patient (in this case you) returns to normal . From the perspective of the doctor, a cure is usually a state which is achieved when a medical condition is simply under control.

Can you take thyroid medication for the rest of your life?

So in the advanced or later stage of your hyperthyroidism, you will no longer be hyperthyroid and instead be hypothyroid and be required to take thyroid medication for the rest of your life. And this is where the real problems start to arise and where natural therapies to boost your thyroid should be used.

Is hyperthyroidism a treatable condition?

Yes, Hyperthyroidism is Treatable. Hyperthyroidism is a treatable condition. But there is a difference between treating a condition and calling it a day and thriving with whatever treatment you are taking. And it is the difference here that you really need to pay close attention to. If you use the standard therapies for hyperthyroidism then you ...

What is a thyroid scan?

Thyroid scan. A technician injects a small amount of radioactive iodine into your bloodstream. Your thyroid absorbs it, and a special camera takes pictures of the gland to look for nodules or other signs of problems.

What is the name of the thyroid gland that makes you feel like you have too much thyroid hormone?

Hyperthyroidism is when your thyroid -- the butterfly-shaped gland at the bottom of your neck, just above your collarbone -- makes too much of a hormone called thyroxine. Your thyroid controls things like how fast your heart beats ...

What is the test for radioactive iodine?

Radioactive iodine uptake test. You swallow a small amount of radioactive iodine. A device called a gamma probe measures how much of the iodine collects in your thyroid. If this uptake is high, you probably have Graves’ disease or thyroid nodules. Hyperthyroidism Treatment.

What is the best medicine for thyroid problems?

Beta-blockers. These medications don’t treat your levels of thyroid hormone but can help with symptoms like anxiety, shaking, or a fast heartbeat. Radioactive iodine. You swallow a small amount of radioactive iodine. Overactive thyroid cells absorb it, and it destroys them.

Why does my thyroid swell?

Thyroiditis. An infection or an immune system problem can cause your thyroid to swell and leak hormones. This is often followed by hypothyroidism, in which your thyroid doesn’t make enough hormones.

What causes hyperthyroidism in women?

Several conditions can cause hyperthyroidism. Graves’ disease. This immune system disorder is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. It’s more likely to affect women under the age of 40. Thyroid nodules. These lumps of tissue in your thyroid can become overactive, creating too much thyroid hormone. Thyroiditis.

How do you know if you have hyperthyroidism?

Mood swings. Fatigue or weakness. Sensitivity to heat. A swollen thyroid (called a goiter ). You might see swelling at the base of your neck. Losing weight suddenly, without trying.

What is thyroid storm?

Thyroid storm is a severe form of thyrotoxicosis characterized by rapid and often irregular heart beat, high temperature, vomiting, diarrhea, and mental agitation. Symptoms may not be typical in the young, old, or pregnant. It usually occurs due to untreated hyperthyroidism and can be provoked by infections. It is a medical emergency and requires hospital care to control the symptoms rapidly. Even with treatment, death occurs in 20% to 50%.

What causes high thyroid levels?

High blood levels of thyroid hormones (most accurately termed hyperthyroxinemia) can occur for a number of other reasons: 1 Inflammation of the thyroid is called thyroiditis. There are several different kinds of thyroiditis including Hashimoto's thyroiditis (Hypothyroidism immune-mediated), and subacute thyroiditis (de Quervain's). These may be initially associated with secretion of excess thyroid hormone but usually progress to gland dysfunction and, thus, to hormone deficiency and hypothyroidism. 2 Oral consumption of excess thyroid hormone tablets is possible (surreptitious use of thyroid hormone), as is the rare event of eating ground beef or pork contaminated with thyroid tissue, and thus thyroid hormones (termed hamburger thyrotoxicosis or alimentary thyrotoxicosis ). Pharmacy compounding errors may also be a cause. 3 Amiodarone, an antiarrhythmic drug, is structurally similar to thyroxine and may cause either under- or overactivity of the thyroid. 4 Postpartum thyroiditis (PPT) occurs in about 7% of women during the year after they give birth. PPT typically has several phases, the first of which is hyperthyroidism. This form of hyperthyroidism usually corrects itself within weeks or months without the need for treatment. 5 A struma ovarii is a rare form of monodermal teratoma that contains mostly thyroid tissue, which leads to hyperthyroidism. 6 Excess iodine consumption notably from algae such as kelp.

What is the frequency of methimazole?

Medication. Beta blockers, methimazole. Frequency. 1.2% (US) Hyperthyroidism is the condition that occurs due to excessive production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland. Thyrotoxicosis is the condition that occurs due to excessive thyroid hormone of any cause and therefore includes hyperthyroidism.

What causes hyperthyroidism?

Less commonly, a single nodule is responsible for the excess hormone secretion, called a "hot" nodule. Thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid) can also cause hyperthyroidism.

How does beta blocker help with hyperthyroidism?

Beta blockers, typically used to treat high blood pressure, are a class of drugs that offset this effect, reducing rapid pulse associated with the sensation of palpitations, and decreasing tremor and anxiety. Thus, a person suffering from hyperthyroidism can often obtain immediate temporary relief until the hyperthyroidism can be characterized with the Radioiodine test noted above and more permanent treatment take place. Note that these drugs do not treat hyperthyroidism or any of its long-term effects if left untreated, but, rather, they treat or reduce only symptoms of the condition.

How long does it take for a PPT to correct?

PPT typically has several phases, the first of which is hyperthyroidism. This form of hyperthyroidism usually corrects itself within weeks or months without the need for treatment. A struma ovarii is a rare form of monodermal teratoma that contains mostly thyroid tissue, which leads to hyperthyroidism.

How long does it take for a thyroid storm to go away?

Psychosis and paranoia, common during thyroid storm, are rare with milder hyperthyroidism. Many persons will experience complete remission of symptoms 1 to 2 months after a euthyroid state is obtained, with a marked reduction in anxiety, sense of exhaustion, irritability, and depression.

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Diagnosis

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

Coping and Support

Preparing For Your Appointment

Your provider will work with you to develop a care plan that may include one or more of these treatment options.
Treatments for hyperthyroidism primarily include reducing the production of hormones from the gland. Medications may be prescribed to control some of the symptoms.
Medication

Antithyroid medication: To stop hormone production.

Methimazole


Beta blockers: To control rapid heartbeat, sweating, and pulse.

Propranolol

Procedures

Thyroidectomy: Surgically removing a portion or all of the thyroid gland, is recommended in severe cases, if other treatments fail.

Therapy

Radioactive iodine therapy:To destroy cells that make hormone.

Self-care

Always talk to your provider before starting anything.

  • Take medications as prescribed.
  • Quit smoking.
  • Do not miss the follow-up visits.

Nutrition

Foods to eat:

  • Foods with antioxidants: e.g. berries such as strawberries, blueberries
  • Cruciferous vegetables: e.g. broccoli, cauliflower, kale, cabbage
  • Vitamin D rich Foods: e.g. fish, egg, mushroom
  • Omega-3 fatty acid containing foods: e.g. walnut, olive oil, flaxseed
  • Calcium-rich Foods: e.g. milk, cheese

Foods to avoid:

  • Suspected food allergens such as dairy products, wheat gluten, soy, corn and artificial food additives
  • High-glycemic carbs such as white flour, sugary sweets, juices, low-fiber cereals, rice cakes and instant potatoes
  • Unhealthy fats such as red, fried and processed meats, crackers, cookies, cakes, pastries and french fries
  • Alcohol and caffeine

Specialist to consult

Endocrinologist
Specializes in the function and disorders of the endocrine system of the body.

Diagnosis

  • Hyperthyroidism is diagnosed using: 1. Medical history and physical exam.During the exam your doctor may try to detect a slight tremor in your fingers when they're extended, overactive reflexes, eye changes and warm, moist skin. Your doctor will also examine your thyroid gland as you swal…
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Treatment

  • Once you begin treatment, symptoms of hyperthyroidism should subside and you should start feeling much better. However, your doctor may recommend that you watch out for iodine in your diet because it can cause hyperthyroidism or make it worse. Kelp, dulse and others types of seaweed contain a lot of iodine. Cough syrup and multivitamins also may contain iodine.
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Alternative Medicine

  • If you've been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, the most important thing is to receive the necessary medical care. After you and your doctor have decided on a course of action, there are some things you can do that will help you cope with the condition and support your body during its healing process. 1. Get regular exercise.Exercise in general will help you feel better and improve …
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Preparing For Your Appointment

  • You'll likely start by seeing your primary care doctor. However, in some cases, you may be referred immediately to a doctor who specializes in the body's hormone-secreting glands (endocrinologist). If you have eye involvement, you may also be referred to an eye doctor (ophthalmologist). It's good to prepare for your appointment. Here's some information to help yo…
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