Graves' Disease - Newly Diagnosed

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Hello everyone.

On Thursday I finally went to see a doctor about some troubling issues I've been experiencing. My main concerns were really bad leg cramps, insomnia, and possibly depression. Eventually the doctor suspected my thyroids as I explained other symtoms I've been having but didn't think they were serious enough to mention. I was given a blood draw to test for thyroid levels and by Friday morning the doctor had called several times to contact me (to no avail as the ringer on the phone was off). By 11AM they reached me and told me to come into the office as soon as possible. By Friday afternoon, I was diagnosed with Graves' Disease.

The doctor said that all my symptoms, (depression, mood swings, tremors, anxiety, intolerence to heat, insomnia, weight loss, and not being able to focus) were all related to HYPERthyroidism, which was confirmed by the lab results. I am new to this, and am just learning about Graves' Disease. I know the chance of dying is not that great if I follow the therapies my doctor orders, but still, I am scared. I think I am even more depressed now finding out I pretty much have a disease that will require life-long treatment. I don't know how to cope with this. I feel like this is changing the course of my life and I don't like it, yet there's no cure for me. I may be taking anti-thyroid medication for years, and eventually it will stop working and iodine radiation therapy will be required. It'll kill the thyroid cells and then I will have HYPOthyroidism, requiring thyroid replacement therapy. I feel like I don't have any room or energy for Graves' Disease. I'm so lost and scared and hopeless... Is there anyone else who has this?

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BluSkies713- Please calm down. You have just been told that you have a life changing ailment, that is TREATABLE. Of course you feel confused, and vulnerable. You need time for your mind to process the information, time to allow yourself to feel more comfortable with the idea.

How do I know? I, personally, have gone through a life threatening illness, and I understand the shock, anger and confusion that you are feeling. This is perfectly normal, and will pass in time, as you learn to cope with your condition. Good grief. A few words from a doctor, and your life has changed radically. Go easy on yourself.

My suggestion to you is to learn as much as you can about the condition, so that there will be no surprises for you. One of the difficulties with serious conditions, is a feeling of helplessness in the face of it. The more that a person can take control, the easier it is to cope with the condition.

Quote:

I feel like I don't have any room or energy for Graves' Disease.

Of course not. It is the disease that is sapping your energy, both physical, and emotional. Once you have it under control, you will feel much better, and be in a much better position to cope with it.

I found a link to a self-help group of people who have Graves' Disease:

http://www.ngdf.org/faq.htm

You know that you will have the support of many people on A2K. Use us to help you through this time. If you need a shoulder or a hand, we are here for you.

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Great link, Phoenix, and might I add, BlueSkies, that Barbara Bush has Graves disease so you're not alone, my friend.

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Graves' Disease - Newly Diagnosed

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