Graves' Disease Support Group
Graves-Basedow disease is a medical disorder that may manifest several different conditions including hyperthyroidism (over activity of thyroid hormone production), infiltrative exophthalmos (protruberance of one or both eyes and associated problems) and infiltrative dermopathy (a skin condition usually of the lower extremities). This disorder is the most common cause of...
Finally heard from the doctor at UAB yesterday. she didn't tell me my lab results, said they were already in the mail. However she said that my antibodies were to low for Graves however my thyroid was way up so she increased my meds to 15mgs of the Meth. She said I really need to be on 20 but in looking at my record that takes me to far the other way. They are not sure what is going on so They are ordering a CT and the test where you go off your meds a week before get a massive dose to the test and then stay off your meds for three days afterwards. My mind has gone blank on what she called it. If someone can tell me what this is and if you feel crappy with by going off and then on such a massive dose. I have made some good friends here so I hope you guys don't mind that I stay.
And, it might not be a bad idea to get a copy of those antibody results.
Since so many doctors drop the ball with thyroid issues, you'll want to make sure that your TSI was indeed tested. Many doctors seem to think the TPOab and/or TGab tests can confirm or rule out Graves'.
And, you'll also want to see your actual TSI level. While a level above a certain percentage usually causes hyperthyroidism, people have been known to become hyperthyroid with a lower level.
Healthy people would have TSI levels less than 2 so, unless that's the case for you, I wouldn't be inclined to accept the diagnosis without seeing the results myself.
Of course, I'm not hoping you have Graves' - I'm just trying to help you make sure you're receiving the proper care since many don't.
I'd also want to see what results the doctor was looking at when she said your thyroid was "way up"....remember, doctors get confused by looking at TSH and consider us hyperthyroid.
I don't think you want to go hypo again.....
They might not know what's going on but, you have learned enough to figure it out.