Lack of Sleep Puts Teens At Higher Risk of Diabetes

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Teens who don't get enough sleep are at increased risk of developing diabetes, besides improving their insulin resistance, according to a study.


"High levels of insulin resistance can lead to the development of diabetes," said Karen Matthews, who teaches psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh.

"We found that if teens that normally get six hours of sleep per night get one extra hour of sleep, they would improve insulin resistance by nine percent," said Matthews, who led the study. 
Insulin resistance is a set of metabolic dysfunctions linked with or contributing to a range of serious health conditions that include type 2 diabetes (formerly called adult-onset diabetes), metabolic syndrome, obesity, among others. 
The study tracked the sleep duration and insulin resistance levels of 245 healthy high school students. 
Participants provided a fasting blood draw, and they kept a sleep log and wore a wrist actigraph for one week during the school year, the journal SLEEP reported. 
Results show that higher insulin resistance is associated with shorter sleep duration independent of race, age, gender, waist circumference, and body mass index, according to a Pittsburgh statement. 
The study is the only one in healthy adolescents that shows a relationship between shorter sleep and insulin resistance that is independent of obesity, added Matthews. 


Source-IANS
arizonahealth.blogspot.com

Exposure To Common Herbicide Raises Birth Defect Risk

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Exposure to common herbicide, which is used in United States, increases the the risk of congenital abnormality of the nasal cavity known as choanal atresia.

The study by Dr. Philip Lupo, assistant professor of pediatrics – hematology/oncology at BCM and Texas Children's Cancer Center, is scheduled for publication in The Journal of Pediatrics.


Choanal atresia is a disorder where the back of the nasal passage is blocked by tissue formed during fetal development. It is a rare condition but can be serious because it affects a baby's ability to breath. It is typically treated through surgery.

Very few risk factors for choanal atresia have been identified, however chemicals that disrupt the maternal endocrine system may be associated with risk, according to Lupo. The study focused on atrazine, which is the most commonly used herbicide in the U.S. – especially in corn crops – and is believed to be an endocrine disrupter.

"Endocrine disrupters aren't fully understood, but it is believed they interfere with or mimic certain hormones, thereby blocking their proper function and potentially leading to adverse outcomes," Lupo said.

The study found that mothers who lived in Texas counties with the highest levels of estimated atrazine application were 80 percent more likely to have children with choanal atresia or stenosis compared to women who lived in the counties with the lowest levels. Choanal stenosis is a less severe form of the condition.

Data for the study was collected from the Texas Birth Defects Registry.

"Our results warrant more detailed exploration before any public health or policy-related recommendations are made," Lupo said, "but this study is a good first step in trying to understand the origin of this birth defect, including a possible role of atrazine."



Source-Eurekalert


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Onscreen Tobacco Use on Rise in Youth-rated Movies

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Top box office films continue to depict smoking, states new UCSF study.

In fact, many of the top-grossing films of 2011 with significant amounts of smoking targeted a young audience, among them are the PG-rated cartoon 'Rango' and 'X-Men: First Class,' it said.


"Hollywood has still not fixed this problem," said lead author Stanton A. Glantz, PhD, a professor of medicine at UCSF and director of the Center for Tobacco Control Research and Education.

"The result of the increase in onscreen smoking in youth-rated films will be more kids starting to smoke and developing tobacco-induced disease," he has warned.

The UCSF study was conducted in conjunction with Thumbs Up! Thumbs Down!, a project of Breathe California of Sacramento-Emigrant Trails, which annually tracks tobacco use in the nation's top-grossing movies.

Altogether, the 134 top-grossing films of 2011 depicted nearly 1,900 tobacco "incidents," the analysis found.

Total tobacco incidents per movie rose seven percent from 2010 to 2011. Among movies rated G, PG or PG-13, smoking incidents per movie soared by 36 percent.

Some of the films that showed the most smoking were "period" movies, such as 'The Help,' 'Midnight in Paris,' and 'Hugo,' which depicted an era when smoking was more common than it is today.

But others were fantasy films, including 'Cowboys 'n' Aliens,' 'Green Hornet' and 'The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1,' which were aimed squarely at the youth market, noted Glantz.

In stark contrast to prior years, the three major film companies that have adopted policies designed to discourage smoking in their movies depicted just as many tobacco incidents per youth-rated movie as companies that lack tobacco use policies.

Those three studios with tobacco reduction policies are: Time Warner (established policy in 2005), Comcast (2007) and Disney (2004). The three companies with no such policies: Viacom, News Corp. and Sony.

The researchers recommended that health departments to work with policy makers to correlate movie subsidies with public health interests in reducing smoking.

"These results underscore a need for an industry-wide policy to keep smoking out of films marketed to youth," Glantz said.

"An R rating for movies with smoking would give film producers an incentive to keep smoking out of movies aimed at young viewers. The exception would be when the movie clearly reflects the dangers and consequences of tobacco use, or represents the smoking of a real historical figure," he added.

The study will be available in Preventing Chronic Disease Journal, an online, peer-reviewed publication of the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion.


Source-ANI


arizonahealth.blogspot.com

Molecular Process in Fat Cells That Influences Stress and Longevity Identified By Joslin Scientists

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Scientists have identified a new factor — microRNA processing in fat tissue — which plays a major role in aging and stress resistance. This was done as a part of their ongoing research investigating the biology of aging, the greatest risk factor for type 2 diabetes and other serious diseases. The scientists are from the Joslin Diabetes Center. This finding may lead to the development of treatments that increase stress resistance and longevity and improve metabolism. The findings appear in the September 5 online edition of Cell Metabolism.


Over the past several years, it has become clear that fat cells (adipocytes) are more than just repositories to store fat. Indeed, fat cells secrete a number of substances that actively influence metabolism and systemic inflammation. Previous studies have found that reducing fat mass by caloric restriction (CR) or surgical or genetic means can promote longevity and stress resistance in species from yeast to primates. However, little is known about how CR and fat reduction produce these beneficial effects. This study investigated one type of molecular mediator – change in microRNAs (miRNAs) and the processing enzymes required to make them – that is influenced by aging and reversed by caloric restriction. miRNAs are involved in the formation of mature RNA.

Based on studies conducted using human cells, mice and C. elegans (a microscopic worm used as a model organism for aging studies), the researchers demonstrated that levels of multiple miRNAs, decrease in fat tissue (adipose) with age in all three species. This is due to a decrease in the critical enzyme required from converted pre-miRNAs to mature miRNAs, Dicer. In the human study, which compared the miRNA levels in preadipocytes (fat cell precusors) of young, middle-aged and older people, people aged 70 and older had the lowest miRNA levels. "The fact that this change occurs in humans, mice and worms points to its significance as a general and important process," says lead author C. Ronald Kahn, MD, Chief Academic Officer at Joslin Diabetes Center and the Mary K. Iacocca Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School.

Caloric restriction, which has been shown to prolong lifespan and improve stress resistance in both mice and worms, prevents this decline of Dicer, and in the case of the mice, restore miRNAs to levels observed in young mice. Conversely, exposure of adipocytes to major stressors associated with aging and metabolic diseases, including toxic agents, Dicer levels decreased. Mice and worms engineered to have decreased Dicer expression in fat showed increased sensitivity to stress, a sign of premature aging. By contrast, worms engineered to "overexpress" Dicer in the intestine (the adipose tissue equivalent in worms) had greater stress resistance and lived longer.

Overall, these studies showed that regulation of miRNA processing in adipose-related tissues plays an important role in longevity and an organism's ability to respond to age-related and environmental stress. "This study points to a completely new mechanism by which fat might affect lifespan and is the first time that anyone has looked at fat and miRNAs as factors in longevity," according to co-author T. Keith Blackwell, MD, PhD, co-head of Joslin's Section on Islet Cell and Regenerative Biology and Professor of Pathology at Harvard Medical School.

Based on this study, Blackwell suggests that "finding ways to improve miRNA processing to keep miRNA levels up during aging might have a role in protecting against the stresses of everyday life and the development of age- and stress-related disease."

Dr. Kahn and the study investigators are currently working on ways to genetically control Dicer levels in the fat tissues of mice, to create mouse models that are more or less resistant to stress. "We would love to find drugs that would mimic this genetic manipulation to produce a beneficial effect," says Dr. Kahn. "If we can better understand the biology of aging, we might also understand how age impacts diabetes," says Kahn.



Source-Eurekalert


arizonahealth.blogspot.com

Link Between Second-hand Smoke and Urinary Disorders in Kids

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Exposure to second-hand cigarette smoke ups risk of urinary disorders in children, says study.

"Our research shows that exposure to second-hand cigarette smoke increases the risk of severe urinary disorders in children, that may otherwise be reduced or even prevented," Joseph G. Barone, said.


"Our results emphasize the importance of smoking cessation for parents. Pediatricians and family physicians are urged to discuss with parents opportunities that are available to quit smoking," he said.

The study included children aged 4 through 17 who sought care of a pediatric urologist for irritative bladder storage symptoms including urinary urgency, increased urinary frequency and incontinence.

28 percent of the children in the study were exposed to environmental tobacco smoke. More than half of the children in the study had moderate to severe symptoms, 50 percent of which were exposed to cigarette smoke within a car and 23 percent of which had mothers who smoked.

The presentation noted that symptom severity increased with greater exposure to second-hand smoke; in children aged 4 through 10, the increase in severe urinary symptoms was significant.

"Cigarette smoke is an environmental toxin and dangerous to children's health - particularly hazardous to very young and pre-pubescent children.

"Parents should make a concerted effort to reduce their child's exposure to smoke in confined places, especially in the home and in cars. Quitting smoking is the healthiest option for children," Barone said.

The pediatric urology program, overseen by Dr. Barone, at the Bristol-Myers Squibb Children's Hospital at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital was ranked 35th in the nation in the 2012-13 U.S. News and World Report ranking of America's Best Children's Hospitals released on June 5.

The study was presented at the American Urological Association Annual Meeting.



Source-ANI

arizonahealth.blogspot.com

Eyecare Medical Group Mobile Web Site Launch

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The Maine Ophthalmologists and Optometrists at Eyecare Medical Group are pleased to announce the launch of its new mobile web site. “Patients who use an iPhone or Android-really any mobile smartphone or computer tablet like an iPad and need to schedule eye exams, LASIK consultations, cataract and lens implant evaluations and appointments for any type of eye disease or problem including glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration-will be able to easily find and contact us on their mobile devices today,” stated Clement Berry, Chief Executive Officer of Eyecare Medical Group. “It’s really very easy to reach us on your smartphone-just search Eyecare Medical Group on your smartphone you can click right through to see it!,” said Mr. Berry. 
If you are at a desktop computer and want to use a regular phone to schedule an appointment reach us at 888-374-2020 or for greater detail and more in depth information visit Eyecare Medical Group or to just be social come see us at facebook.com/eyecaremedicalgroup

Cost of LASIK in Maine: Can I Afford It?

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Eyecare Medical Group in Portland, Maine shared some thoughts about the cost of LASIK in Maine and how to see if it’s affordable. “I speak to many patients from throughout Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont who call us and really want LASIK but are concerned about how to make it affordable, “commented Erica Mitchell, Refractive Surgery Coordinator at EMG. “With the economy being tough it can be unnerving to think about spending money on anything-no less something that seems a bit frivolous. For folks who consider their eyes and vision correction frivolous-LASIK is not for them. For people who can imagine doing the kinds of things they do each day-or would like to do each day-without the hassle of having to wear glasses or contacts all the time-LASIK can be a real priority,” she further stated. 
Many people who decide to have LASIK think they should shop for the best price. We’re not sure what would possess folks to think about price shopping for surgery. Maybe because they forgot that LASIK is surgery? Maybe it’s because they see a bunch of deceptive advertisements and hype. It’s tough to believe that folks would shop around for LASIK like they shop for a brake job for their car-but it happens every single day. It’s also tough to believe that folks would shop price for LASIK RATHER than shop for the best LASIK Surgeons to whom they are entrusting their eye health and vision.
LASIK is about three things…..First, LASIK is about safety and results. Second, LASIK is about safety and results. Third, LASIK is about safety and results. Safety and results depend on the skill, experience and expertise of surgeon and the staff. 
Almost ALL practices today have ways of making LASIK affordable. This can be through the use of monthly payment plans, the use of employer Flex Plans and special offers that can help you use your tax refund or bonus. Shop surgeon quality-NOT price……find the best LASIK surgeon with whom you can develop TRUST. One who gets to know you. One who you can get to know. You may already know them based on their reputation in the community or by the fact that they have taken care of a family member, co-worker or friend. There is no way of setting a best price on empathy, trust, comfort, safety and results. 
If you or someone you know is thinking about LASIK please call Eyecare Medical Group for a Free LASIK Evaluation at 888-374-2020. Let us tell you if you are even a good candidate for Laser Eye Surgery for Laser Vision Correction. Then let us help make LASIK affordable. To schedule a FREE LASIK Consultation call us at 888-374-2020, visit Eyecare Medical Group or facebook.com/eyecaremedicalgroup. 
Eyecare Medical Group is a leading ophthalmology practice in Portland, Maine staffed by a team of eye care specialists including eye doctors who are fellowship trained glaucoma specialists, retina specialists, cornea specialists and cataract and lens implant specialists-all board certified Ophthalmologists-as well as Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants, (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, care for diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma. 
Eyecare Medical Group is conveniently located for patients from throughout Maine including
Auburn, Augusta, Bangor, Bath, Berwick, Biddeford, Bridgeton, Brunswick, Cape Neddick, Casco Bay, Cumberland Center, Eliot, Freeport, Gardiner, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Kittery, Lewiston, Old Orchard Beach, Sanford, Scarborough, South Portland, Springvale, Topsham, Waterville, Westbrook, Winslow, Wiscasset, Yarmouth, Portland, Skowhegan and York Maine.

Lens Implants for Cataracts Common in Maine

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Eyecare Medical Group wants to share some information with Maine cataract patients to help them understand more about cataract surgery and lens implants. “While most people have a pretty solid awareness of what a cataract is, many do not realize the very widespread incidence of cataracts across the world nor do they realize the options and positive results we achieve with lens implants for vision correction after cataract surgery”, remarked Maine Cataract Surgeon Bruce Cassidy, M.D. of Eyecare Medical Group in Portland.


Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide. About 20.5 million Americans age 40 and older have cataracts and more than half of all Americans develop cataracts by age 80. A cataract is a clouding of the crystalline lens of the eye preventing light rays from passing through it easily. This results in a clouding and blurring of vision. Cataracts are not a growth or a film over the eye. For many patients cataracts start out slowly and have little effect on vision at first. But, as the cataract becomes denser, so does the impact on vision. The most common symptoms that bother patients with cataracts include blurry or cloudy vision, sensitivity to light and glare, double vision in one eye, poor night vision, sometimes with haloes around lights, fading or yellowing of colors and often a need for frequent changes in glasses or contact lens prescriptions. 
“If a cataract begins to impact your ability to live your desired lifestyle by limiting your daily activities or even limits your safe and comfortable mobility, then it is time to consider cataract surgery and lens implants. Cataract surgery and lens implants are among the safest and most frequently performed surgeries in the United States. We use advanced technology Intraocular Lens Implants (IOL) available that allow us to provide sharper vision in dim lighting conditions, toric lens implants to correct astigmatism and even lens implants that correct near vision, arm’s length vision as well as distance vision without requiring bifocals or reading glasses for the vast majority of patients”, said Dr. Cassidy.
If you or someone you know has questions about cataracts or is in need of an examination for cataract surgery and lens implants (IOL) please feel free to call Eyecare Medical Group at 888-374-2020, visit Eyecare Medical Group or facebook.com/eyecaremedicalgroup. 
Eyecare Medical Group is a leading ophthalmology practice in Portland, Maine staffed by a team of eye care specialists including eye doctors who are fellowship trained glaucoma specialists, retina specialists, cornea specialists and cataract and lens implant specialists-all board certified Ophthalmologists-as well as Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants, (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, care for diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma. 
Eyecare Medical Group is conveniently located for patients from throughout Maine including 
Auburn, Augusta, Bangor, Bath, Berwick, Biddeford, Bridgeton, Brunswick, Cape Neddick, Casco Bay, Cumberland Center, Eliot, Freeport, Gardiner, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Kittery, Lewiston, Old Orchard Beach, Sanford, Scarborough, South Portland, Springvale, Topsham, Waterville, Westbrook, Winslow, Wiscasset, Yarmouth, Portland, Skowhegan and York Maine.

Lens Implants, Cataracts & Glasses

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The Cataract Surgeons at Eyecare Medical Group in Portland, Maine have noticed that with the number of “baby boomers” approaching the age of cataracts there are lots of questions about cataract surgery, lens implants and the need-or not-for eyeglasses. Many of these questions are quite valid as over the past 5 years, patient expectations and technology have driven a convergence of the goals cataract surgery and refractive surgery. 
Traditionally, the goal of cataract Surgery was to remove the cloudy crystalline lens and replace it with an intraocular lens implant (IOL) of equivalent optical power so as to achieve “emmetropia” thus allowing patients to have good distance vision. The goal of refractive surgery is to help patients decrease or possibly even eliminate their dependence on eyeglasses or contact lenses. Today, a rapidly growing cataract patient population wants to achieve both the benefits of cataract surgery and refractive surgery in one combined procedure. 
In order to meet patient expectations of being “glasses free” and help patients achieve their personal vision correction and lifestyle goals, it is necessary for us to first carefully select the type and design of lens implant as well as to accurately calculate the IOL power. The types and designs of lens implants that we work with include the following: 
Monofocal Lens Implants 
Monofocal lens implants are the most basic type of Lens Implant used to correct vision after removal of the crystalline lens. A Monofocal Lens Implant can provide very good vision after cataract surgery-but only at one set distance-usually for seeing things at a distance such as for driving or going to the movies. A Monofocal Lens Implant does not correct intermediate or arm’s length vision for doing things like playing cards and seeing the golf ball on the tee, or even seeing computer screens clearly. Monofocal lens implants do not correct near vision for doing things up close like seeing medicine bottles, reading, or keeping your golf score, as these tasks require the correction of presbyopia. 
Toric Lens Implants 
Toric lens implants correct astigmatism. For patients who have significant amounts of astigmatism prior to cataract surgery, and who do not wish to wear eyeglasses to see clearly at a distance, choosing a toric lens implant can help them be independent of glasses for tasks such as driving that require clear distance vision. Toric Lens Implants do not correct presbyopia, so that most patients still require reading glasses or bifocals to be able to comfortably perform near vision tasks such as reading and intermediate vision tasks such as computer work. 
Near Vision Presbyopia Correcting Lens Implants 
Near vision presbyopia correcting lens implants provide vision correction at the full range of distances-far or distance vision, arm’s length or intermediate vision and up close near vision. Depending on the specific vision requirements of the patient, there are several types of presbyopia correcting multifocal and accommodating lens implants that can be used including the Tecnis™ Multifocal Lens Implant, the Crystalens® Accommodating Lens Implant and the AcrySof®ReSTOR® Multifocal Lens Implant. Each of these works in a different way to help the patient achieve their vision correction goals of being able to see at a variety of distances without being dependent on eyeglasses or reading glasses. Patients choosing to have a presbyopia correcting lens implant will likely find that they can drive, watch television, play golf and keep score, read a menu, play cards or do crafts-without the need for glasses. Patients choosing a multifocal or accommodating lens implant typically experience a greater overall freedom from glasses, allowing them to participate in most everyday activities without the dependence on, or hassle of glasses. 
“As cataract and refractive surgeons, we routinely work to realistically shape patient expectations and then constantly strive to provide the medical, surgical and optical care necessary help patients meet or exceed them,” commented Jordan Sterrer, M.D. “When patients ask us, “Do I have to wear glasses after my cataract surgery?,” we make sure to help them understand that we can offer them the possibility of a lifestyle that minimizes or possibly eliminates their need for glasses through careful lens implant counseling”, said Dr. Sterrer. “For many patients, being able to function essentially “glasses free” adds a level of convenience and comfort to their everyday lives.” 
If you or someone you know has questions about cataracts, cataract Surgery or lens implants (IOL) please free to call Eyecare Medical Group in Portland Maine at 888-374-2020, visit Eyecare Medical Group or facebook.com/eyecaremedicalgroup. 
Eyecare Medical Group is a leading ophthalmology practice in Portland, Maine staffed by a team of eye care specialists including eye doctors who are fellowship trained glaucoma specialists, retina specialists, cornea specialists and cataract and lens implant specialists-all board certified Ophthalmologists-as well as Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants, (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, care for diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma. 
Eyecare Medical Group is conveniently located for patients from throughout Maine including 
Auburn, Augusta, Bangor, Bath, Berwick, Biddeford, Bridgeton, Brunswick, Cape Neddick, Casco Bay, Cumberland Center, Eliot, Freeport, Gardiner, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Kittery, Lewiston, Old Orchard Beach, Sanford, Scarborough, South Portland, Springvale, Topsham, Waterville, Westbrook, Winslow, Wiscasset, Yarmouth, Portland, Skowhegan and York Maine.

Maine Corneal Specialist on LASIK & Dry Eyes

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Maine Corneal Specialist Ravi Shah, M.D. shared some thoughts and information about LASIK and dry eyes. “It is clear that the most common side effect of LASIK is dry eyes. In fact, it is pretty much expected and pretty normal for all LASIK patients to have some temporary dry eye symptoms after their treatment,” commented Dr. Shah. “The important fact for patients to understand is that the dry eye symptoms should be temporary,” he further explained. 
Here is what you should know about LASIK and dry eyes. LASIK is corneal surgery. ANY time someone has corneal surgery it is likely that surgeons will sever some corneal nerves as well as temporarily disturb the delicate cells on the surface of the eye. During Cataract Surgery and any other eye surgery procedures that involve the cornea we do the exact same things. These corneal nerves connect to the Lacrimal Gland which is responsible for producing tears. When the nerves are temporarily interrupted there is a decrease in the amount of tears that are produced-making your eyes feel dry and gritty. To make you more comfortable during the time it takes for the corneal nerves to heal and regenerate we may do one of more of the following for you: 
Prescribe Artificial Tear Eye Drops 
Insert Tiny Tear Duct Plugs 
Prescribe Restasis® Eye Drops 
Prescribe Dietary Supplements with Omega-3 Oils 
Each of the above acts to either retain the tears that you have, supplement the tears that are lacking or help you produce more of your own tears so that you will be most comfortable and heal properly. Each person will regenerate the fine corneal nerves at a DIFFERENT RATE and thus will need to use one or more of the above tear helpers for different amounts of time. A very important consideration is how healthy your tear film was BEFORE your surgery. A critical part of your LASIK consultation will be a careful examination of your tear film. Sometimes, in order to make you the most comfortable and make the healing and visual recovery process as quick and easy as possible for you, we may actually prescribe one or more of the above BEFORE your surgery. If you or someone you know has questions about LASIK and Dry Eyes or would like to schedule a Free LASIK Evaluation please call Eyecare Medical Group in Portland Maine at 888-374-2020, visit Eyecare Medical Group or facebook.com/eyecaremedicalgroup. 
Eyecare Medical Group is a leading ophthalmology practice in Portland, Maine staffed by a team of Maine eye care specialists including eye doctors who are fellowship trained glaucoma specialists, retina specialists, cornea specialists and cataract and lens implant specialists-all board certified Ophthalmologists-as well as Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants, (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, care for diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma. 
Eyecare Medical Group is conveniently located for patients from throughout Maine including 
Auburn, Augusta, Bangor, Bath, Berwick, Biddeford, Bridgeton, Brunswick, Cape Neddick, Casco Bay, Cumberland Center, Eliot, Freeport, Gardiner, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Kittery, Lewiston, Old Orchard Beach, Sanford, Scarborough, South Portland, Springvale, Topsham, Waterville, Westbrook, Winslow, Wiscasset, Yarmouth, Portland, Skowhegan and York Maine.

Maine Ophthalmologists on Glaucoma & Metabolic Syndrome

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Maine Ophthalmologists and Glaucoma Specialists commented on glaucoma risk and metabolic syndrome. Reporting in the July 2011 publication Ophthalmology, the official journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, researchers suggested that the risk of developing Open Angle Glaucoma (OAG) may be increased if you suffer from Metabolic Syndrome. “We know that patients with diabetes mellitus, systemic arterial hypertension or high blood pressure, hyperlipidemia or high cholesterol and triglycerides and obesity have elevated risks of developing open angle glaucoma,” noted Maine Glaucoma Specialist Samuel Solish, M.D. of Eyecare Medical Group in Portland, ME. “The fact that the researchers concluded that since approximately one-fifth of the U.S. population has metabolic syndrome and that both metabolic syndrome and open angle glaucoma increase in prevalence with age, and this suggests that as the U.S. population ages, the disease burden of OAG may increase in the coming years is not surprising," commented Glaucoma Specialist Robert Daly, M.D.

The authors performed statistical analysis to determine patients' risk of developing OAG in conjunction with individual and combined types of metabolic syndrome. Data were adjusted for social and demographic factors, systemic medical conditions and other ocular diseases. The adjusted data showed that subjects with diabetes alone had a 35% increased risk of developing OAG, and those with hypertension alone had a 17% increased risk. Those with diabetes and hypertension combined had a 48% risk. Those with hyperlipidemia alone had a 5% decreased risk. Obese subjects had a 14% increased risk. Patients with diabetes, hyperlipidemia and hypertension combined had a 26% increased risk and the risk of developing OAG were higher in African Americans, Latinos and Asian Americans than in Caucasians, the authors reported.

If you or someone you know is concerned about glaucoma, glaucoma risk or metabolic syndrome please feel free to schedule an appointment at Eyecare Medical Group in Portland Maine by calling 888-374-2020, visiting www.eyecaremed.com or facebook.com/eyecaremedicalgroup

Eyecare Medical Group is a leading ophthalmology practice staffed by a team of eye care specialists in Portland, ME including eye doctors who are fellowship trained glaucoma specialists, retina specialists, cornea specialists and cataract and lens implant specialists-all board certified Ophthalmologists-as well as Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants, (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, care for diseases of the retina including diabetic retinopathy and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma.

Eyecare Medical Group is conveniently located for patients from throughout Maine including Auburn, Augusta, Bangor, Bath, Berwick, Biddeford, Bridgeton, Brunswick, Cape Neddick, Casco Bay, Cumberland Center, Eliot, Freeport, Gardiner, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Kittery, Lewiston, Old Orchard Beach, Sanford, Scarborough, South Portland, Springvale, Topsham, Waterville, Westbrook, Winslow, Wiscasset, Yarmouth, Portland, Skowhegan and York Maine.

Maine Children’s Eye Problems, Health & Safety

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“As we start a new school year in Maine, children’s eye problems, health and safety really move to the forefront of our thoughts,” commented Maine Ophthalmologist Jordan Sterrer, M.D. of Eyecare Medical Group in Portland, ME. Prevent Blindness America has designated September as Children’s Eye Health & Safety Awareness Month. Eye and vision problems affect one in twenty preschoolers and one in four school aged children. Parents should be aware that it is possible for their children to have a serious vision problem without even being aware of it. Infants should be screened for common eye problems during their regular pediatric appointments and vision testing should be conducted for all children starting at around three years of age. If there is a family history of eye problems or if an eye problem is apparent, it is important to bring it to the attention of and eye doctor so that they can advise the parents about when and how often their child’s eyes should be examined.

Among the conditions an eye doctor will look for are amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (crossed eyes), ptosis (drooping of the upper eyelid), color deficiency (color blindness) and refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism).

"Aside from vision threatening conditions, eye screenings for children are important because vision changes can occur without you or your child noticing them," said Dr. Sterrer, M.D. “If your child is having trouble seeing the blackboard or the words in a book, learning, as well as participating in recreational activities can be impacted. While vision problems can interfere with school performance, it's important to distinguish them from learning disorders,” explained Dr. Sterrer.

“You also have to protect your child’s eyes from the danger of eye injuries. Be sure that the toys your child plays with are appropriate for his or her age and maturity level. Avoid toys with sharp, protruding or projectile parts. Participation in any type of sport also could endanger your child’s eyes, so make sure he or she wears appropriate protective eyewear,” said Dr. Sterrer.

To learn more about children’s eye problems, health and safety please feel free to call Eyecare Medical Group in Portland Maine at 888-374-2020, visit Eyecare Medical Group or facebook.com/eyecaremedicalgroup.

Eyecare Medical Group is a leading ophthalmology practice in Portland, Maine staffed by a team of eye care specialists including eye doctors who are fellowship trained glaucoma specialists, retina specialists, cornea specialists and cataract and lens implant specialists-all board certified Ophthalmologists-as well as Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants, (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, care for diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma.

Eyecare Medical Group is conveniently located for patients from throughout Maine including Auburn, Augusta, Bangor, Bath, Berwick, Biddeford, Bridgeton, Brunswick, Cape Neddick, Casco Bay, Cumberland Center, Eliot, Freeport, Gardiner, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Kittery, Lewiston, Old Orchard Beach, Sanford, Scarborough, South Portland, Springvale, Topsham, Waterville, Westbrook, Winslow, Wiscasset, Yarmouth, Portland, Skowhegan and York Maine.

Find a Top Maine LASIK Surgeon

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“Making the effort to find a top LASIK surgeon is well worth the time,” commented Maine LASIK Surgeon and Corneal Specialist Ravi Shah, M.D. of Eyecare Medical Group in Portland. But what makes a top LASIK surgeon? For sure, top LASIK surgeons have the skill, expertise and experience to perform LASIK surgery in a safe, effective and predictable manner. But they also have some other characteristics that set them apart from the rest.

Top LASIK Surgeons are easy to trust because they are empathic-they hear and appreciate what you say and they connect with you and your personal goals.

Top LASIK Surgeons take care and time to consider every aspect of your eye health and vision during your evaluation and consultation.

Top LASIK Surgeons say NO! if you are not a good candidate.

Top LASIK Surgeons insist that you return for proper follow-up care even if YOU think you are doing just fine.

Top LASIK Surgeons want to hear your questions-and are happy to answer them in simple understandable language.

Top LASIK Surgeons fully discuss the risks, benefits, possible complications and side effects in a balanced manner.

Top LASIK Surgeons can be counted on to effectively manage your eye surgery when things are going perfectly as well and when things a bit off track.

Choosing a LASIK surgeon is the single most important decision you will make. Do the research and learn about your surgeon-then move forward with your decision. If you are not satisfied, schedule another consultation. At Eyecare Medical Group, our patients regularly tell us that our LASIK surgeons are “Top LASIK Surgeons”. You can find out for yourself by calling 888-374-2020 and scheduling a Free LASIK Evaluation!

To learn more about Eyecare Medical Group in Portland Maine you can call us at 888-374-2020, visit Eyecare Medical Group or facebook.com/eyecaremedicalgroup

Eyecare Medical Group is a leading ophthalmology practice in Portland, Maine staffed by a team of eye care specialists including eye doctors who are fellowship trained glaucoma specialists, retina specialists, cornea specialists and cataract and lens implant specialists-all board certified Ophthalmologists-as well as Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants, (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, care for diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma.

Eyecare Medical Group is conveniently located for patients from throughout Maine including Auburn, Augusta, Bangor, Bath, Berwick, Biddeford, Bridgeton, Brunswick, Cape Neddick, Casco Bay, Cumberland Center, Eliot, Freeport, Gardiner, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Kittery, Lewiston, Old Orchard Beach, Sanford, Scarborough, South Portland, Springvale, Topsham, Waterville, Westbrook, Winslow, Wiscasset, Yarmouth, Portland, Skowhegan and York Maine.

Maine Surgeons on Cataracts & Macular Degeneration

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Maine Cataract Surgeon Jordan Sterrer, M.D. responded to the question “What do cataracts and macular degeneration have in common?” “It is easy for patients to understand that cataracts and macular degeneration share at least one common risk factor-age. The development of a cataract and onset of age related macular degeneration (AMD) both increase in frequency and incidence with age and thus it is pretty common to have one, the other or both as we head through our 50’s, 60’s and 70’s,” explained Dr. Sterrer.

The question that many patients get confronted with is whether to have cataract surgery if they have macular degeneration. And if they do-will it make the AMD get worse and faster. The general consensus among cataract surgeons is that with proper preoperative diagnostic testing, examination and consultation patients who have Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and who develop a cataract are able to have cataract surgery after being counseled on what to expect with regard to overall vision improvements and lifestyle benefits. While AMD is not a reason to avoid cataract surgery, realistic expectations must be established by and between you and your cataract surgeon. Further, the most current and widely accepted studies on AMD progression after cataract surgery found that there was no difference in the frequency of the disease among patients who had cataract surgery as compared to those who did not.

If you or someone you know is concerned about or suffers from cataracts or macular degeneration please feel free to call Eyecare Medical Group at 888-374-2020, visit Eyecare Medical Group in Portland Maine or facebook.com/eyecaremedicalgroup

Eyecare Medical Group is a leading ophthalmology practice in Portland, Maine staffed by a team of eye care specialists including eye doctors who are fellowship trained glaucoma specialists, retina specialists, cornea specialists and cataract and lens implant specialists-all board certified Ophthalmologists-as well as Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants, (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, care for diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma.

Eyecare Medical Group is conveniently located for patients from throughout Maine including Auburn, Augusta, Bangor, Bath, Berwick, Biddeford, Bridgeton, Brunswick, Cape Neddick, Casco Bay, Cumberland Center, Eliot, Freeport, Gardiner, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Kittery, Lewiston, Old Orchard Beach, Sanford, Scarborough, South Portland, Springvale, Topsham, Waterville, Westbrook, Winslow, Wiscasset, Yarmouth, Portland, Skowhegan and York Maine.

Maine Eye Doctor on Amblyopia

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Maine eye doctor Jordan Sterrer, M.D. of Eyecare Medical Group shared some thoughts about amblyopia or lazy eye. “Amblyopia, also known as lazy eye, is one of the most common causes of vision problems in children,” said Dr. Sterrer. He further explained, “Amblyopia is the loss of vision in an eye that is otherwise normal. Many people who are amblyopic do not know that they have the condition until they are older and have a vision test, because the vision in their “good” eye is normal and they do not identify themselves as having a vision problem.” Fortunately,   Amblyopia is easily diagnosed through a routine vision screening and, when treated early enough, those who suffer from Amblyopia can generally recover almost normal vision. 
Amblyopia is considered to be a developmental problem in the brain, caused when the nerve pathway from one eye to the brain does not develop during childhood.  The part of the brain receiving images from the weaker eye does not develop its full vision potential because the brain becomes confused and ignores the image that the weaker eye sees. 
Symptoms of amblyopia include:
·        Problems with depth perception·        Poor vision in only one eye·        Eyes that turn in or out Treatment for amblyopia can vary. Children who have a refractive error such as myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism, will need glasses to correct the error.  A patch is often placed on the normal eye to help retrain the amblyopic eye. The patch forces the brain to recognize the image from the eye with amblyopia instead of using the normal eye.  Surgeries may be required to correct any eye muscle problems.
Children who are treated early can recover their vision almost completely although they may have problems with depth perception throughout their life. The older a person is when they are diagnosed with amblyopia and treatment begins, the less chance they have of recovering their vision.
To learn more about Amblyopia and children’s vision at Eyecare Medical Group in Portland Maine you can call us at 888-374-2020, visiting Eyecare Medical Group or facebook.com/eyecaremedicalgroup.
Eyecare Medical Group is a leading ophthalmology practice in Portland, Maine staffed by a team of eye care specialists including eye doctors who are fellowship trained glaucoma specialists, retina specialists, cornea specialists and cataract and lens implant specialists-all board certified Ophthalmologists-as well as Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants, (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, care for diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma.
Eyecare Medical Group is conveniently located for patients from throughout Maine including Auburn, Augusta, Bangor, Bath, Berwick, Biddeford, Bridgeton, Brunswick, Cape Neddick, Casco Bay, Cumberland Center, Eliot, Freeport, Gardiner, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Kittery, Lewiston, Old Orchard Beach, Sanford, Scarborough, South Portland, Springvale, Topsham, Waterville, Westbrook, Winslow, Wiscasset, Yarmouth, Portland, Skowhegan and York Maine.

Today is the day I start regaining my life back!

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Today is August 20th, 2010 and seven hours ago I took a pill that contained Radioactive Iodine for the treatment of Graves Disease.  So far so good! I am alive, I am not glowing, my computers hard drive did not get wiped out and nothing is melting when I touch it! lol lol!!! The process was quick, easy and painless. Now that I am confined to the house for a few days I thought what a perfect opportunity to write about my experience in dealing with Graves Disease.  Hopefully in sharing my experience I can help others who are newly diagnosed or even those who are currently dealing with this nasty disease.
In June of 2006 I was diagnosed with Graves Disease at the age of 27.  At first I did not realize how much this disease was going to affect my life. The doctor told me the diagnosis and he made it seem like no big deal, so I shrugged it off and thought to myself I will take medication and be fine! Boy was that a wrong assumption. Prior to my diagnosis I was in a nine year relationship that ended very badly.  Several months after the breakup I started noticing weird symptoms going on in my body. I had a racing heart, hand tremors, insomnia, massive weight loss despite eating everything and anything, bone loss, sweating, I could not tolerate the heat and my insides felt like they were moving at 200 mph. I did not think anything of the symptoms and blamed the symptoms on the daily stresses of  life and the breakup.  Now as I look back I believe the stress triggered the Graves Disease. Auto Immune Diseases run in my family, so I am almost positive that counts as a factor to me having this disease. I continued to ignore the symptoms until I had a family member accuse me of being on drugs due to the rapid weight loss and due to the fact that I was making a lot of inappropriate decisions. My family scheduled a doctors appointment for me and now the start of my journey  begins with this horrible disease.  Upon being diagnosed I was put on Methimazole and worked with my endocrinologist over the next couple of months with my dosing. He had told me about the RAI treatment and surgery, but we decided to try the medication route first. Over the next couple of months I started feeling back to myself and being naive to the disease i decided to stop taking my medication  without talking to my doctor. I stopped taking the medication because I felt good. I thought to myself I am cured now and I don't need this medicine anymore. BIG mistake on my part!
In November of 2007 I went to the dentist and he was getting ready to put me under a local anesthesia. Well needless to say this did not happen because my blood pressure was 180/100. Being that my blood pressure was so high I was told to speak with my doctor immediately. I told the doctor I stopped taking my medication. He attributed the high blood pressure to the Graves Disease and not having the disease under control. Being that I stopped the medication he told me that most likely my symptoms were going to get worse and that I did more harm to my body by stopping the medication. He was right!!!! I started taking my medication again and over the next couple of months I felt worse then ever. I ended up going out on disability for a couple of months because it was so hard for me to function on a daily basis both mentally and physically. Over the next year I continued the ups and downs of the disease and was still naive to the fact that I had a life long disease. I did not want to accept that fact that I had something wrong with me. I was not diligent enough in keeping myself knowledgeable about the disease until October of 2008. I was at work sitting in a meeting and all of the sudden I had ringing in my ears, felt dizzy, lethargic, hot and my upper body got bright red. I left work and stopped to see my aunt who is a nurse. My gut was telling me to have her check my blood pressure. Sure enough my gut was right my blood pressure was around 200/110 she told me I needed to go to the emergency room immediately. When I walked into the emergency room and told the nurses my blood pressure reading they looked at me like I had three heads because at 29 years old I should not have blood pressure that high. They took me back and ran a bunch of test on me to ensure I was not having a heart attack or a stroke. They gave me medication to bring my blood pressure down. They believed the high blood pressure was due to the Graves Disease. However I was a little skeptical that it was related to the Graves Disease being that at this point in time my levels were in normal range. Anyways they put me on a blood pressure medication called Exforge and a beta blocker called Lopressor.  Overall It was a traumatic experience for me due to the fact that they said I could have had a heart attack or even a stroke. Bingo! This was my eye opener that this disease is a lot more serious then what I believed it to be. It was now time to take this seriously and get my butt in gear in learning as much as I can about the disease and getting the disease under control. After a few weeks of being on the beta blocker it put me on the floor literally. The beta blocker had me so depressed that all I did was go to work, come home and lay on the floor and cry. Needless to say I contacted my doctor and he said I could ween myself off the medication.  I felt a million times better once it was out of my body. Over the next couple of months i was feeling ok, but not great. Still continuing to takeMethimazole and Exforge and my levels are in normal range.
Then it happens again in February and March of 2009 I was rushed to the hospital for high blood pressure. They ran a slew of tests on me to rule out any other conditions that might be causing the high blood pressure other then the Graves Disease, which now at this point they are telling me they are not so sure it is the Graves causing the high blood pressure. After being in the hospital for 5 days the answer I received from the doctors were that they were "Baffled" and they don't know why I have high blood pressure. They told me to continue taking the Methimazole and Exforge, but raised the dosage. Anyways not the answer I was looking for.  By this time I was so frustrated with everything that I just gave up. Over the next year and a half I started working on a major project at work. I took a break from dealing with my medical issues since majority of my time was occupied with work. Probably not the best thing to do, but I did continue to take my medication and see my doctor regularly. My levels continue to come back within normal range, but I would feel great for a couple of months. Then I would start feeling crappy for a couple of months and adjust my medication.  This  continued to be a vicious cycle of feeling great and crappy. I am now to the point where I have had enough and I don't feel like the Thyroid medication is working for me. In fact I believe its making me feel worse regardless of my levels being within normal range.
Right now I am experiencing extreme anxiety, fatigue, shortness of breath, tightness in my chest, joint pain and my emotions and moods are out of control. I saw my doctor on August 5th, 2010 she told me its time to look at the next treatment option.  She feels its not good to be on Thyroid medication for more then 3-5 years due to the long term affects of the drug.  Although this is a debatable. She said surgery maybe to risky due to my blood pressure problems, so the last resort is the Radioactive Iodine treatment (RAI). We discussed the RAI option and at this point in my life I feel like this is the right thing for me. On August 17th & 18th I had a thyroid scan and uptake and today August 20th I was given the Radioactive Iodine pill. I am trying to have a positive outlook from this point forward. I know this is not a cure for Graves, I know I need to be patient as my body goes through this change and I know their is a high chance that I will end up hypothyroid as this is usually the outcome with RAI. I hope I chose the right road, but only time will tell. I will continue to update this site on my experience with RAI. I hope I can share a positive experience vs. all the negative experiences you see posted on the internet.  Good luck to all you Gravers and stay positive!!!
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions or just need someone to talk with. I live in the suburbs of Philadelphia and it would be great to meet others who are going through this for support. My email is lshantronl@gmail.com

Symptoms I have experienced with Graves Disease

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~Acne~Anxiety ~Blurred Vision~Bone Loss~Brain Fog~Depression~Difficulty Swallowing~Dizziness~Fatigue~Feeling of something stuck in my throat~Hair Loss~Headache~Heat Intolerance~Heart Palpitations~Hypertension~Increased Appetite~Increased Drug Metabolism~Increased Sweating~Increased Urination~Irritability~Insomnia~Joint Pain~Lack of Motivation~Loss of Concentration~Muscle Weakness~Nervousness~Racing Thoughts~Rage~Rapid Weight Loss~Rapid Heart Rate~Restlessness~Shortness of Breath~Swelling of Tissue Around Eyes~Tightness in Chest~Tingling in hands in feet~Tremors~Uncontrollable Mood Swings
Here is a picture of me prior to being diagnosed with Graves Disease. Due to the rapid weight loss I was down to almost 100 pounds



Here is a picture of me in January 2011

Helpful tips that helped me through my experience with Graves Disease

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1. Gain as much knowledge as you can about the Disease. Join a forum on the internet or find a local support group. Their is so much information and knowledge on the internet to guide you. Google can be your best friend when doing research. It can also be overwhelming as their is so much information on the internet. Take it slow and don't get discouraged when you read about a negative experience.

2. Be patient as their is no quick fix to feeling better. It will take time to figure out what the best treatment options are for you. You may have to try several treatments before you find the right one, which could take months or years.

3. Keep a positive attitude as everyone's body responds differently to treatment. Just because one person had a negative experience does not mean you will. 

4. Make sure you discuss your Disease with your friends and family so they know what you are going through on a daily basis. Especially is you are  dealing with the emotional issues related to the disease.  Most people don't understand how this disease affects the mind & body. Most people shrug it off like its no big deal.
5. If you don't like your doctor find a new one. I went through 3 doctors before I found one I liked. If you don't feel your doctor is listening to you MOVE ON to another!!!
6. Dont stop taking your Thyroid medication or any medication for any reason unless you have been advised by your doctor to stop taking it.  Otherwise it may  make your symptoms worse as it did for me.

7. Be cautious when taking supplements and vitamins as some my aggravate your symptoms and make you feel worse even though they are supposed to make you feel better. I was having severe anxiety and noticed it started upon taking some new vitamins. Once I stopped taking the vitamins the anxiety went away.

8. Be aware of your body and your symptoms. It maybe helpful to keep a daily log of your mental and physical symptoms. By keeping track of your symptoms you may notice a trend in how your symptoms react to your daily life activities and can hopefully eliminate those daily activities to alleviate your symptoms. Its also helpful to keep track for your doctor visits.

9. Eat Healthy - Fresh fruits and vegetables. I went from eating fast food all the time to eating healthy. This made a big difference in the way I felt. I also noticed certain foods made my symptoms worse so be aware of how you feel after you eat. 

10. Exercise - I know they say its not always good to exercise with graves due to the cardiovascular aspects of the disease, but at least get out and walk around the block or try some Yoga. I will admit I am not persistent with my exercise, but when I do I feel a whole lot better mentally and physically. 

11. Be cautious with alcohol consumption. For me anytime I had alcohol even just one drink I would wake up in the middle of the night sweating with a racing/pounding heart and anxiety.
12. Stop smoking - I smoked for years and I think smoking definitely made my symptoms worse. I quit cold turkey and this was one of the best decisions I have made for myself.
13. Be cautious when taking depression/anxiety medications. I know they are supposed to make your feel better, but sometimes they don't. I tried taking an anxiety medicine and it made me worse. I also believe it had an interaction with the other medications I was taking.
14. Stress - Be sure to eliminate as much stress as you can from your life. Stress seems to be a big symptom trigger for me and I try to avoid it as much as I can.  

15. Birth Control - Stop taking it if you can as it messes with your hormone levels.  I actually think a huge part of my emotional outburst were due to taking birth control. Dont get me wrong I still get them but not as bad since stopping BC.

My RAI Experience

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September 10th, 2010
Its been three weeks since I had my RAI treatment. I had a few minor side effects from the treatment. About a week after the treatment my tongue and saliva glands swelled up and my neck was sore. The doctor did not tell me that I should have been sucking on hard candies to avoid the RAI going into my glands. However I was drinking a lot of water. I had a slight headache for two weeks, but not sure if i can contribute it to the RAI or allergies. I was also very tired the first week and had to run to the bathroom immediately after any food consumption again not sure if I can contribute this to the RAI or the fact that I had my monthly friend. I have also noticed that my hair is falling out more, but not in clumps just more strands then usual.  Also at this point I have not gained any weight. The good news is my anxiety and racing heart have diminished and I dont feel as if my insides are going at 200 mph.  However every once and a while for about an hour or two I do feel my anxiety and my heart racing. My moods have seemed to improve a little as I am not getting as upset over the small stuff like I use too. All in all the experience so far has been easy. I am happy I chose this route so far. I hope I continue to improve as the weeks go on. I will stay positive. 

August 20th, 2010
I had my RAI treatment today and I hope to be able to provide a positive experience as I know their are so many horror stories about RAI treatments on the internet. I will provide an update on my progress every couple of weeks. Overall the process was quick, easy and painless. On 7/24 I had my blood drawn to check my levels. As you can see I am in normal range, although I don't feel normal lol!!! I was told your levels have to be in normal range prior to receiving the RAI treatment.  On 7/17 & 7/18 I had my Thyroid Scan & Uptake.  I had to stop my Thyroid medication ten days prior to the scan and uptake. Today I was given my RAI treatment. My uptake came back at 53% and I was given 15 millicuries of Radioactive Iodine. After three days from the treatment I was told to starting taking my Methimazole again. I am scheduled for lab work and a doctors appointment the first week in October. 

Current Levels - 7/24/2010
TSH 0.71 - Range 0.40-4.50
T4 Free 1.3 - Range 0.8-1.8
T3 83 - Range 76-181
T3 Uptake - 1.16 - Range 0.79-1.16
I know a lot of people are against the RAI treatment due to the radiation exposure. However I feel differently! One or two doses are not going to kill you. If you smoke, are an alcoholic or do drugs don't you think those are doing more harm to your body then a small dose of RAI? Think about it. You are more likely to end up dying or end up with cancer due to those lifestyle choices, but then of course if you end up with cancer your first thought would be to blame it on the RAI and not the fact that you smoke, do drugs or drink. Just my opinion. Long term computer use, cell phone use and long term use of other electronics. What you don't think they let off radiation!!! Think again. It might be minimal but in the long run it maybe harmful. This is new to our generation so only time will tell what harmful affect will come from electronics. Again just my opinion. So before you freak out about RAI consider your current lifestyle choices and what you come in contact with everyday of your life. Those are most likely more harmful to you then a dose of RAI. In the end it does not matter anyways. God is the ultimate holder of your life, so regardless of all the precaution you take your life is already planned out for you.