Thyroid Disease

I would like to take this opportunity to review what I consider the past success of this topic. I have truly enjoyed writing for Suite101 and sharing new information with all of you. Over the past two years, I have posted 75 different articles and listed numerous web sites.

Jan 31, 2002 - Keri

There are many studies promoting the use of T3 in addition to thyroxine therapy for the treatment of hypothyroidism. There are probably just as many that say it can be harmful. M. Sara Rosenthal joins us as a guest today to discuss this controversial issue. She is the author of The Thyroid Sourcebook: Everything You Wanted to Know and The Thyroid Sourcebook for Women.

Dec 14, 2001 - Keri

It's that time of year again. Time to stop, turn off the television and radio, shut down the computer and reflect on the positives in your life.

Nov 23, 2001 - Keri

Researchers in Birmingham, UK have determined that a one-time measurement of low serum thyrotropin (TSH) in persons 60 years of age or older is associated with increased mortality from all causes and, particularly, due to cardiovascular disease.

Nov 9, 2001 - Keri

For those of us with autoimmune disease, staying healthy can be a challenge. Often, our already mixed up immune systems have trouble defending us against the hoards of virus and bacteria bombarding our skins. Once one of them breaches our defenses, it can be very hard to route out again.

Oct 12, 2001 - Keri

No one can deny the citizens of the United States, indeed citizens of the world, are laboring under the weight of uncertain times. The talk of war and retaliation pervades our media worldwide. None of us can say what will happen in the next day or hour. Those will a propensity toward autoimmune diseases may be adversely affected by such chronic stress.

Sep 28, 2001 - Keri

An editorial comment of the events of September 11, 2001 when terrorists struck the United States of America.

Sep 17, 2001 - Keri

In Part II of our interview with Megan Stedenbach, coordinator of this year's Thyroid Cancer Survivor's conference, we discuss the impact of thyroid cancer and how friends and loved ones can help.

Aug 21, 2001 - Keri

First diagnosed with thryoid cancer in 1997, Megan Stendebach continues to live a full busy life. In addition to serving as the volunteer coordinator of the upcoming Thyroid Cancer Survivors convention, she is the webmaster of ThyroidCancerSongs.com, has a full time job and is an active wife and mother. In Part I of our interview, Megan talks about her diagnosis and treatment.

Aug 17, 2001 - Keri

Tired of having to get permission to get your TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) levels checked? Wish there was an easier way? You got it! Biosafe Laboratories, Inc. recently announced FDA approval of the first in home collection test for TSH.

Aug 8, 2001 - Keri

Manufacturers of unapproved levothyroxine products face product phase out. In guidelines issued July 12, 2001, the FDA explained how the agency will handle unapproved levothyroxine sodium products after the August 14 application deadline. Abbott Laboratories, manufacturers of Synthroid, reaffirm the intention to file a new drug application prior to the August 14, 2001 deadline.

Jul 20, 2001 - Keri

Is the golden goose really up for grabs? The FDA denial of the citizen's petition of Knoll Pharmaceutical has released a torrent of comment and criticism from all sides. With the potential for removal of a major competitor, smaller companies are making a move for their share of the market.

Jul 6, 2001 - Keri

The Federal Drug Administration in the US and its many counterparts around the world serve as watchdogs to insure that consumers can depend on the safety and effectiveness of their medications. Why have they decided to confront manufacturers of levothyroxine now?

Jun 22, 2001 - Keri

Levoxyl joins Unithroid as the second form of levothyroxine approved by the FDA.

Jun 8, 2001 - Keri

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) denies Knoll Pharmaceutical's petition for generally regarded safe and effective (GRAS/E) status for Synthroid.

May 25, 2001 - Keri

Researchers in France identify a possible genetic link in congenital thyroid disease.

May 11, 2001 - Keri

Life is a bit like a game show. "We spins the wheel and we takes our chances." According to research, the average life expectancy is about 75 years. Where do you stand in the continuum of life? At the beginning or near the end... A personal reflection on the passage of time.

Apr 27, 2001 - Keri

In a long term study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine researchers concluded that for women 65 and over a TSH (a test measuring the level of thyroid stimulating hormone) of 0.1mlU/L or less increases the risk of fracture two to three times that of women with normal levels.

Apr 13, 2001 - Keri

Thyroid disease is linked to memory function in an Illinois court case.

Mar 30, 2001 - Keri

Medicine has always gone in "fits and starts." It is often by chance alone that certain ideas are taken up by the system and then taught as gospel. Today's scientists are often only rediscovering old facts.

Mar 16, 2001 - Keri

A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. Proverbs 17:22, New International Version Laughter really is the best medicine as Megan Stendebach has discovered. Join us for grins as we explore the world of thyroid set to music.

Mar 2, 2001 - Keri

The American Academy of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) designates each January as Thyroid Awareness Month. This year, the campaign identified three life changing events that are most often linked with thyroid disease particularly in women: after the birth of a baby (post-partum); menopause; after the 60th birthday. These stellar events in a woman's life are also the times when she is most likely to develop thyroid disease.

Feb 16, 2001 - Keri

Have you just found out that you have thryoid disease? Are you feeling thoroughly confused by the variety and amount of information on the 'net? Where do you go from here?

Feb 2, 2001 - Keri

This study says that women with thyroid disease have a higher incidence of infertility and recurrent miscarriage. This study says that there the incidence is not higher and in fact thryoid disease does not play a part. Who should you believe? How do you decide?

Jan 19, 2001 - Keri

Thyroid hormones impact female reproduction in several ways. In some cases it can cause menstruation to stop, make it more difficult to conceive and carry a pregnancy, increase the risk of miscarriage and gestational diabetes.

Jan 5, 2001 - Keri

A new test for follow up after treatment for thyroid cancer proves more sensitive than conventional tests and does not require stopping l-thyroxine treatment prior to the test.

Dec 22, 2000 - Keri

New research documents that pregnant women with hypothyroidism are four times more likely to experience miscarriage.

Dec 8, 2000 - Keri

Many people with thyroid disease suffer with weakness, tingling and/or pain in their hands. These symptoms also charecterize carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Is there a the difference?

Nov 24, 2000 - Keri

The most common cause of thyroid disease is autoimmune. The response of the body's immune system turning on its own cells. Now researchers have concluded that autoimmune disease may be the 8th leading cause of death in women ages 15 to 64.

Nov 10, 2000 - Keri

Research conducted at the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX indicates that age at diagnosis and the type of treatment may increase the risk of thyroid cancer recurrence.

Oct 27, 2000 - Keri

It's Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Is there a link between the treatment for thyroid cancer and breast cancer? A new study presented at the American Academy of Otolaryngology 2000 meeting suggests that this is true.

Oct 13, 2000 - Keri

A recent study of Arizona newborns showed higher levels of thyroid stimulating hormones in newborns in Yuma where the water supply is contaminated with perchlorate.

Sep 29, 2000 - Keri

So, you have been diagnosed and undergone the treatment of choice for your particular type of thyroid cancer. Now what comes next?

Sep 15, 2000 - Keri

Have you been newly diagnosed with thyroid cancer? The word 'cancer' sets off all sorts of alarms and prompts important questions.

Sep 1, 2000 - Keri

As many as 10% of the population have thyroid nodules. Of those, only 5% are cancerous. Cancer of the thyroid is considered one of the most curable.

Aug 18, 2000 - Keri

Can thyroid cancer be prevented? What are the risk factors? Can it be prevented?

Aug 4, 2000 - Keri

Does the rate of thyroid cancer increase following treatment with I131?

Jul 21, 2000 - Keri

Before your thyroid went haywire, your body functioned great on auto-pilot. Now, it's on manual control and someone threw away the manual. Mary Shomon's new book can help.

Jul 7, 2000 - Keri

Thyrotoxicosis (hyperthyroidism, Graves' Disease) has been considered a benign disease affecting only the thyroid gland and in some cases, the eyes. However, recent studies have shown that it may affect more body systems than originally thought.

Jun 30, 2000 - Keri

Preparing in advance for any medical visit helps you organize your thoughts and prioritize your questions.

Jun 23, 2000 - Keri

The ATA and NACB are asking for comment on the proposed changes in the "Laboratory Support for the Diagnosis and Monitoring of Thyroid Disease". The guidelines for cost-effective use of laboratory testing. Members of these organizations are asked to comment. They hope to have the monograph finalized by the Kyoto International Congress on Thyroid Disease in October, 2000.

Jun 16, 2000 - Keri

Orbital radiotherapy has been an accepted therapy for Graves' Opthalmopathy for over 30 years. There have been many studies that demonstrate its effectiveness. However, at the 1999 meeting of the American Thyroid Association, a study was presented that challenges those findings.

Jun 9, 2000 - Keri

Should the mildest forms of hyperthyroidism, Subclinical Hyperthryoidism (SCHT) be actively treated?

Jun 2, 2000 - Keri

Iodine Deficiency Disorder is still a serious health threat to more than one-third of world's population. It is the most common cause of preventable mental retardation.

May 26, 2000 - Keri

A recent presentation at the AACE Ninth Annual Meeting and Clinical Congress in Atlanta, Georgia suggests that thyroid nodules identified during pregnancy are more likely to be malignant.

May 19, 2000 - Keri

New study challenges the positive effects of soy as a substitute for estrogen replacement therapy postmenopause.

May 12, 2000 - Keri

Recently, I was asked to share the beginnings of Women's Health and Thyroid Disease in the alumni newsletter of Greenwich University. I would also like to share them with you. This is how it all began...

May 5, 2000 - Keri

Is it possible to determine who will develop TED? A study published in the December 1999 issue of Thyroid suggests that there may be.

Apr 21, 2000 - Keri

An estimated 13 million Americans have a thyroid disorder with nearly half remaining undiagnosed. Approximately 98 million adults have high cholesterol or total blood cholesterol values of 200 mg/dL or higher. Ninety percent of patients diagnosed with hypothyroidism have elevated cholesterol or triglyceride levels.

Apr 14, 2000 - Keri

The stomach upset caused by tainted food may not go away in the usual twenty-four to forty-eight hours. The long term effects may not become apparent for some time. Foodborne disease has been linked to many autoimmune diseases.

Apr 7, 2000 - Keri

It has long been a myth that estrogens protect women from heart disease, but heart disease is in fact the number one cause of death among American women. As we discussed in the previous articles, thyroid disease increases our risk of developing heart disease.

Mar 31, 2000 - Keri

Hyperthyroidism (too much thyroid hormone) was first identified as a problem with the heart and the vascular system.

Mar 24, 2000 - Keri

Too little thyroid hormone can significantly increase your risk of heart disease.

Mar 17, 2000 - Keri

Women with low thyroid may be more at risk for cardiovascular disease. Even slightly low normal levels may increase the risk for postmenopausal women.

Mar 10, 2000 - Keri

Symptoms of TED (thyroid eye disease) can occur before, during or after treatment for autoimmune thyroid disease. It is important for us to recognize the signs and symptoms and seek early treatment to avoid serious complications.

Mar 3, 2000 - Keri

TED (thyroid eye disease) affects approximately 50% of people with Graves' Disease, but did you know it can also affect those with Hashimotos thyroiditis. The same antibodies in autoimmune thyroid disease that attack the thyroid can also attack the tissues around the eyes causing symptoms from redness and irritation to bulging and disfigurement.

Feb 25, 2000 - Keri

Since World War II, synthetic chemical production has risen dramatically. How are these chemicals changing our health status?

Feb 18, 2000 - Keri

The incidence of thyroid disease increases with age, especially in elderly females. Some studies define “elderly” as young as 60.

Feb 11, 2000 - Keri

It’s 100% Natural, therefore it must be good for you. At least that is the accepted argument of companies who promote "natural" cures for everything from the common cold to weight loss. But, is it always the best choice for those of us with thyroid disease?

Feb 4, 2000 - Keri

Do you still suffer from hypo symptoms? Does your doctor say that your lab tests are normal? Maybe you need a little T3 to boost your brain function and take care of the fatigue and muscle cramps.

Jan 28, 2000 - Keri

Graves’ Disease and Hashimotos Thyroiditis, the most common causes of thyroid disease, are both autoimmune diseases. In both disease processes, the thyroid is under friendly fire.

Jan 21, 2000 - Keri

Thyroid disease is in the news once more. Just before the beginning of the new millennium, Tipper Gore, the wife of Vice President Gore of the US, was discovered to have a lump (nodule) on her thyroid.

Jan 14, 2000 - Keri

A new study shows a significant difference in absorption rates of popular calcium supplements. Those of us with hyperthyroidism are at risk for osteoporosis and need to pay close attention.

Jan 7, 2000 - Keri

Deciding who to go to for accurate medical information on the Web and tips for finding the sites.

Dec 31, 1999 - Keri

I have just come face to face with another side effect of Graves’ Disease. Osteoporosis is the loss of bone density resulting in porous bones, that are fragile and break easily.

Dec 24, 1999 - Keri

Why run a contest about dealing with stress and thyroid disease? Do you ever look in the mirror and wonder who is looking back at you? Do family members and loved ones wonder what alien was left in your place? The effects of thyroid disease are not only physical.

Dec 17, 1999 - Keri

ACOG has issued new guidelines for routine health screenings for women ages 13 and up.

Dec 10, 1999 - Keri

Treatment Options for hyperthyroidism continues with a discussion of antithyroid drugs and surgery.

Dec 3, 1999 - Keri

RAI is the most common treatment for hyperthyroidism, particularly Graves' Disease, used in the US. It effectively destroys the thyroid cells that produce T4 and T3. Have any of you taken RAI? What kind of results did you have?

Nov 26, 1999 - Keri

In this series, we will explore some of the treatment options for thyroid disease. As always your comments and discussion are welcome. Which option did you choose? Was it a good choice for you? What advice would you give those who are making this choice now?

Nov 19, 1999 - Keri

Who decides what kind of treatment is medically necessary, you, your HMO or your doctor? Over the last twenty years in the US the answer has been your HMO (health maintenence organization). This week that changed.

Nov 12, 1999 - Keri

Your unborn child can be effected by your thyroid disease. Careful monitoring is necessary to maintain both your health and the health of your baby.

Nov 5, 1999 - Keri

A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine indicates that undiagnosed hypothyroidism during pregnancy impacts the child's intellectual performance in school. These provocative findings prompted comment from The American Thyroid Association and The Thyroid Society. What do you think?

Oct 29, 1999 - Keri

You are concerned because of all the changes in your life. How can you effectively get your message across to your healthcare provider?

Oct 22, 1999 - Keri

The symptoms of thyroid disease are often vague and can mimic other diseases. How can you decide if it really is thyroid related?

Oct 15, 1999 - Keri

A personal account of hyperthyroidism, Graves disease, giving an overview of the disease, symptoms and treatment choices.

Aug 9, 1999 - Keri