Hyperthyroidism after radiation treatment for breast cancer

I'm finding that women receiving radiation therapy are more likely to develop thyroid disorders, particularly hyperthyroid (grave's disease).  Has anyone had more indepth experience in treating or developing this kind of disorder?  The five to six women I know with this same pattern have found acupuncture to be very effective with their insomnia and sweating.    Any other adjunct therapies you know about?


This discussion is related to AFTER CHEMO.

[PaulMD]

Hi there.

Radiation to the breast may cause some exposure to the thyroid gland as well.  This may result in transient inflammation called thyroiditis which will manifest with hyperthyroid symptoms (sweating, hyperdefecation, palpitation, insomnia, etc), and then there might follow a relatively hypothyroid state, with reversal of the symptoms I mentioned.  I suggest that these people you know undergo constant and regular surveillance of their thyroid function since there might follow a period of hypothyroidism after the hypothyroid episode.  Adjunct therapies such as accupuncture are welcome as long as they help the patient, and do not cause harm.  

I hope all your friends will do well.  Regards and God bless.