My thyroid problems have made everything feel like it’s behind schedule. Two years ago, I was diagnosed with Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder attacking my thyroid gland, causing hyperthyroidism. Initially, I thought a few natural remedies would fix it, but I was wrong.
My naturopath helped with my rapid heartbeat, but my thyroid levels remained high. After two years and some scary research about potential complications like heart attacks and bone loss, I switched to a medical doctor. She recommended a bone density test and radioactive iodine (RAI) treatment to destroy my thyroid. The RAI treatment sounded intense; I’d need to isolate myself from loved ones and meticulously disinfect everything for ten days. Even after the treatment, I’d likely develop hypothyroidism, needing medication.
I sought a second opinion from a functional endocrinologist. She felt my numbers weren’t critical and suggested lifestyle changes first: eliminating gluten and dairy, eating healthier, taking selenium, and improving my sleep. If that didn’t work, she’d consider a medication to slow my thyroid temporarily, and only then would we discuss RAI.
This approach felt better. I also started seeing an herbalist and committed to supplements. This time, I’m taking it seriously. I cut out gluten, saw a sleep specialist, and got personalized herbal remedies and supplements to support my overall health and thyroid. The list of supplements is long, but I feel much better. I’ll continue to update my progress, but I hope my experience helps others with thyroid issues.