Thursday, August 19, 2010

While I'm doing ho hum updating

Here's a new development from my neck of the woods (har, har, pun just came to me).

I was recently diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. The good news: it's not Grave's disease. But the bad news: my doctor is recommending surgery to remove the thyroid. Ugh. I am seeing a second specialist in 2 weeks to get a second opinion, because I tend to not trust doctors much. Either way, it seems I need medication every day for the rest of my life--hardly helpful to my self-reliance/food storage/emergency prep ideals.

More good news: we have great insurance. The last bill reminded me chemical testing had been about $1,000, but was 100% covered by the insurance. *sigh of relief* And as long as I don't get too choosy with the surgeon, thyroid removal should be pretty much covered as well. If I choose that option. This is sort of a bummer decision to make.

7 comments:

Holly said...

Sucks about your diagnosis. :(
On the other hand - have you thought about acupuncture? I've heard that really helps or something. I'm not sure, but there's probably some kind of natural stuff out there. :)

Thoughts and prayers out for you!

Madry Family said...

That sucks!! I hope you get feeling better, no matter how you choose to get it worked out. We will keep you in our prayers :)

Susie Stout said...

I'm sorry Courtney but I know how important it is. One of Daniel's nieces has to take that medicine and before she was on it she looked so sickly she's finally getting some of her health back. Also my Aunt says it's life changing and well worth the pill you have to take.

Becca said...

I'm sorry to hear about your diagnosis. But, try and look on the positive side (which is sounds like you are). Remember, everything happens for a reason and we may not know what that reason is, but the One who can guide us through our trials does. Keep us posted on your updates and WOOHOO for great insurance!

Unknown said...

Courtney - I would definitely get a second and third opinion before doing surgery. The thyroid is SO IMPORTANT and is tied to so many other things. I have hypothyroidism and have been taking synthroid for 10 years - everyday. However, the herbologist I talk with frequently has great success in getting people off of Synthroid through the use of herbs and diet. Do you by chance use sea salt - it is not iodized and you have to have iodine in your body for healthy thyroid function. I was using sea salt for the last 4 years and just found out that I was totally low on iodine and my thyroid hasn't been functioning correctly. I really believe that was the cause of my last 2 miscarriages. Anyway, I really believe in taking care of things naturally if at all possible and also believe you should be very cautious before doing anything too extreme medically. Having hypo for 10 years I have learned a lot about the thyroid so if you have any questions let me know- good luck.

TheTamFam said...

Everybody, I feel so loved! Thanks for the encouragement and support. Megan I did recently discover that sea salt iodizing issue. There is a variety of sea salt I noticed in the stores that has fixed the problem.

Anyway, I'm not iodine deficient though. I have a thyroid nodule which has started producing thyroid hormone, so it is like I have two thyroids. Lucky me. Not lucky for my pituitary gland or whatever else is underproducing to compensate for the excess thyroid hormone. Well, I'll keep you all updated. Next week is the appointment with the other specialist.

TheTamFam said...

Megan, you are wonderful to offer your decade's worth of knowlege. I would like to email you about questions, but didn't see the option on your profile. If you get a chance, drop me a line at courtney.steele@gmail.com and then I'll have your email. Thanks!