Robert went to the endocrinologist today. The results from the surgery stated that the cancer had spread outside of the thyroid and may have moved into his lymph nodes. However, this does not alter his future treatment.
The goal now is to allow his TSH level to reach 50. During this time, he will be on a low-iodine diet (no salt, bread, eggs, dairy, etc). He can still have his sweet tea, so I think he'll survive! He'll also start to feel more tired and maybe even flu-like, since he's not able to start any thyroid medication yet. Once his TSH is 50 (maybe in 1-4 weeks), he will be admitted into the hospital and put into isolation for 2 days to receive the radioactive iodine treatment. Any remaining thyroid cells in his body will soak up the RAI and be destroyed. He should have no other side effects. Then, for the following 5 days, he cannot have any close contact with anyone, as the chemical will continue to be released through his sweat and urine. After that, he will have a radioactive scan to determine if the treatment was effective. Finally, he will be able to go on thyroid medication. They will continue to do additional scans at 6 mo, 1 yr, 1-1/2 yrs and every 2 yrs after.
The realization that this process is FAR from over put a little damper on the mood today. Being tired really stinks! I hope his TSH reaches 50 quick, for his sake!
1 comment:
Nancy, and family...I'm so sorry! I just don't know what else to say. Please know that you're in my thoughts and prayers!
Post a Comment