I'm so scared and confused

[Geri422]

I haven't been feeling well for over a year. My doctor would tell me that I'm the picture of health. Last week I had to sob like a child to make my doc realize that I really felt sick! My vision is blurred, my hair is thinning, I loose my balance, I'm always tired, my skin on my right leg feels like it's burned....but that comes and goes. He finally did a bunch of bloodwork. He called me and said that one of my tests results was quite alarming (nothing usually alarms him!) he said that my TSH level for my thyroid was under .01. He told me that that meant that I had hyperthyroidism. He is sending me for the nuclear/iodine uptake test. This is what I'm scared about. Does that test kill the thyroid? I've read that I could have Thyroiditis, and that it could resolve itself in a couple of months by itself. Can anyone give me any input? PLEASE????

[Applecore]

It is better to know what is wrong and then treat it.  One bit of advice if I may give it is to always get a copy of your blood work and tests if you can.  Keep a record for yourself so you can always be informed and have a record if you need to go to another doctor.  I had the uptake and it is really nothing.  I am allergic to iodine and was afraid to have it.  My doctor assured me that it wasn't the same type of iodine that I am allergic to so I had it and was ok.  You won't have any problem with the test.  When I was hyperthyroid my husband had to help me out of the tub, I was so weak in the legs.  I couldn't go up steps without pulling myself up with the railing.  You know just because we look great doesn't make us feel great.  Once you get treated you will begin to feel better.  Don't be scared, we are all here for you and the Lord is with you.  praying for you in Md.   linda

[kipland]

No.  You're confusing the uptake test with the RAI (radioiodine treatment), where the dose they give is much larger and is intended to destroy the thyroid tissue.  Go out on the internet and search "thyroid uptake scan" and you'll get more information on it.  

Hope all turns out well for you!

Lori