Antibodies

[Amy1966]

I am just new to this thyroid thing.  My question is with the antibodies.  From what I have read it is my understanding that the antibodies won't go away by taking medication.  They may go up and down but not go away.  It is also my understanding that as the disease progresses that it will get worse until the antibodies have destroyed the thyroid.  At which time the medication will help to level things out (if you're lucky).  Right now I am still feeling tired.  At night I have been waking up sweating.  I also have the feeling like something is stuck in my throat and my ears will hurt at night when I sleep. I also get ringing in the ears. I have only been taking levot for 2 weeks.  I know it takes awhile for the medicine to kick in.  

Is this the right way to think about all of this?

[stella5349]

Best description given Red.

Welcome to the community Amy.

You'll be supported here.

[redheadaussie]

Yes, your understanding is right. Some people are lucky and can last their whole life and  not have a destroyed gland, but others, myself included, suffer and lose their thyroids to the antibodies.
  It does take time for the medication to kick in as you know, and hopefully for you it will ease some of the symptoms. Often the thyroid will settle down, and the antibodies will still be there, but not with such force.
   Good luck!

[ChitChatNine]

I am not sure but wanted to stop by and say hi and welcome you to our community~!

C~