Radioactive iodine treatment is commonly recommended by endocrinologists as a “cure” for hyperthyroidism and Graves’ Disease. While many people who receive this treatment seem to do fine, others regret the decision to have received this treatment method. And for those who are considering to receive radioactive iodine, there of course is no way to predict who will do well after receiving the treatment, and who will be miserable. I receive emails from both categories of people, as sometimes I’ll get an email from someone who received RAI and they are very happy with their decision. On the other hand, every week I receive at least a few emails from people who received RAI and regretted their decision. And some of these people want to know if following a natural treatment protocol can restore their thyroid health, which I’ll discuss in this post.
The truth is, when someone receives radioactive iodine there really is no way to predict whether or not their thyroid health can be restored back to normal. This depends on how much damage has been done to the thyroid gland. And this in turn depends on a few different factors. One obvious factor is the dosage of radioactive iodine that was used during treatment. If a very high dose was used then this will increase the chances of the person becoming permanently hypothyroid. Sometimes what will happen is that a lower dose will be used, and if it doesn’t make the person hypothyroid then the doctor will recommend another session of RAI. So receiving a very large dose of RAI and/or receiving multiple RAI treatments will decrease the chances of your thyroid gland secreting a normal amount of thyroid hormone.
Why Can’t The Effects Of Radioactive Iodine Always Be Reversed?
In order to understand why the effects of RAI can’t always be reversed, it probably would be a good idea to explain what happens when someone receives this type of treatment. Radioactive iodine is also known as iodine-131. When someone receives this treatment, it is taken up by the body as if it were the mineral iodine. So it will travel through the bloodstream to the thyroid gland. But unlike the mineral iodine, RAI will destroy the cells of the thyroid gland. Obviously the larger the dose of RAI that is used, the more thyroid cells that will be destroyed, thus increasing the chance that the person will become permanently hypothyroid.
But isn’t it possible to regenerate the cells of the thyroid gland? Well, it is thought by many that the thyroid gland doesn’t have the ability to regenerate. However, not only have I helped patients who sustained significant damage to their thyroid gland through radioactive iodine, but numerous other natural healthcare professionals have had similar experiences. Obviously there will be people who receive RAI who can’t have their thyroid health restored back to normal, but there also will be some people who receive RAI, and after following a natural treatment protocol they are able to wean off of their thyroid hormone medication.
Plus, remember that even if someone who received RAI can’t have their thyroid health restored back to normal, this doesn’t mean that they can’t benefit from following a natural treatment protocol. After all, I think most people reading this would agree that hyperthyroidism typically isn’t due to a deficiency of radioactive iodine. Most hyperthyroid conditions are due to Graves’ Disease, which is an autoimmune condition that affects the thyroid gland. And as a result, receiving RAI might eliminate the hyperthyroidism, but it won’t do anything for the autoimmune component.
But how about if someone received radioactive iodine due to a non-autoimmune hyperthyroid condition, such as toxic multinodular goiter? Well, even if there isn’t an autoimmune component, many people with multinodular goiter have other imbalances, such as adrenal weakness, toxic overload, etc. The point I’m trying to make is that radioactive iodine uses radiation to kill thyroid cells, but in no way does it do anything to restore one’s health. Whether someone develops Graves’ Disease or multinodular goiter, RAI doesn’t address the underlying cause of the problem.
How Can You Determine If You’d Benefit From Natural Treatment Methods?
So if you have received RAI, how can you find out if you would benefit from following a natural treatment protocol? Well, being a natural healthcare professional I’m going to be biased, as in my opinion I think most people who receive RAI can benefit from natural treatment methods. Keep in mind that I’m not suggesting that everyone who has received this treatment method can restore their thyroid health and therefore avoid taking thyroid hormone medication. Although this without question is possible in some people, there is also the possibility that you will need to be on synthetic or natural thyroid hormone.
With that being said, I still feel that it’s important to address the cause of the condition whenever possible. While this is true with all chronic health conditions, this is especially true with autoimmune conditions such as Graves’ Disease. And the reason for this is because the research clearly shows that someone who has one autoimmune condition has a greater likelihood of developing another autoimmune condition in the future. And since RAI doesn’t do anything to address the underlying cause of the autoimmunity associated with Graves’ Disease it would make sense to do everything you can to address the cause.
In summary, some people who have received radioactive iodine would like to know if their thyroid health can be restored after following a natural treatment protocol. Although some people can have their thyroid health restored after receiving RAI, there is no way to predict if this will happen, as it depends on a few factors, including how much damage has occurred to the thyroid gland. If the person has certain nutrient deficiencies then this can also affect the healing process. But even if someone’s thyroid health can’t be completely restored back to normal, since RAI doesn’t do anything to address the underlying cause of the condition, most people who have received this procedure can still benefit from natural treatment methods.
Where Can I find information on possibly reversing an ablation, or healing the thyroid? Thank you!
What are the natural protocol for restoring thyroid healing.
Hello,
May I be assisted with the natural treatment to reverse radioactive pill effects. I got it in June 2014, now on euthyrox 100mcg.
I learnt that some are lucky, on taking the natural treatment they eventually stop taking the euthyrox. Their thyroids regain normal functioning.
I had the radiation iodine tablet close to fifteen years ago now and all of a sudden with taking thyroxine I have elevated levels.
They have halved my dose with a follow up blood test in 6 weeks.
I am wondering. Could my thyroid be working again?
The diagnosis of hyerthyroid was gigen after years of monitoring and blood tests.
With the only symptoms being unstable weight gain and loss to chronic insomnia.
I would be thrilled if it has been restored because I remained ignorant of my thyroid when I opted to take the pill.
Kind regards.
Jennifer Farquhar.
Hi Jennifer,
15 years is a long time, but if you have elevated thyroid hormone levels then this very well might be a sign that you are producing more thyroid hormone. I wouldn’t rely on a single thyroid panel, but of course you’ll find out soon enough what the follow-up blood test looks like.
Hi. I’m getting ready to do the RAI and was wandering if this is a good choice? I was currently on methimazole but am off of it now to prepare for the rai. Will the antithyroid meds actually cure hyperthyroidism or Graves’ disease? Still hesitant but have been told the rai is a more permanent cure. Thanks for any advice
Hi Meredith,
Of course it is your decision as to whether or not to receive RAI, but just keep in mind that RAI isn’t doing anything to address the cause of the problem. While it usually does eliminate the hyperthyroidism, it’s not doing anything for the autoimmune component of Graves’ disease.
Hi Jennifer, I’m having exactly the same experience. I had the I-131 “cure” about 10 years ago. It took months and months and several doctors to finally get my levothyroxine dose leveled off, with my levels fluctuating way up and way down. Finally, they (I) decided to follow the course of stabilizing my dose, and things have stabilized for the most part. Now, suddenly, my levels are high again. My new doctor just said to drop to 5 days’ a week rather than changing the actual dosage. I’m to retest in about 4 weeks. If the levels are still high, does that always mean regeneration of the thyroid tissue, especially if there was no changing in the levothyroxine dosage? I’m not sure where to go from there. I’m one of those who regretted having the ablation, so is this a positive thing?
I too, 12 years after irradiated iodine, am experiencing elevated thyroid levels. I’ve been taking no dose or 1/2 doses for about a month now.
I was given RAI at the age of 13, at age 21, was told I needed meds for the rest of my life. I have been on Synthroid/Cytomel/Armour/Tirosent/ now NP Thyroid. I have always had symtoms of dry skin, depression, brain fog. Forgetfulness, severe joint pain, etc. What should I do. I live in Mount Dora, Florida…
Hi Iris,
How does your thyroid panel (TSH, free T3, free T4) look on the meds? I definitely would advise you to work with a natural healthcare practitioner, and just remember that the RAI doesn’t address the cause of the problem (i.e. adrenal problems, leaky gut, etc.).
I was given RAI about 12 years ago at the age of 24. I’ve been on Synthroid ever since and have been “feeling” those hypo symptoms lately, like I may be needing a higher dosage.
Are you familiar with the essential oil Endoflex? I keep reading stories of people who have had success. Rather than upping my meds, I’m considering keeping my current Synthroid dose the same, and attempt substituting endoflex along with it. But nervous to mix two? Any thoughts?
Thank you!
I am consulting with an endocrinologist concerning multinodular Grave’s disease treatment options. Options available for treatment are RAI or surgery. What are some other options? Can thyroid nodules continue to grow after RAI? Does number and size of nodules reduce natural treatment options?
Hi Lana,
I’ll include the link to an article I wrote on multinodular toxic goiter. The number of thyroid nodules won’t necessarily reduce the effectiveness of a natural treatment approach. As for the size of the nodule, I’ve worked with people who had large nodules, but there is a concern when the nodule is larger (i.e. 2 cm or greater), especially in combination with other characteristics (i.e. solid nodule, microcalcifications).
https://www.naturalendocrinesolutions.com/articles/multinodular-goiter-natural-treatment-methods/
Diagnosed with graves at 22ish? And had RAI less than 2 years later. I live north of Seattle but can’t find a doctor who supports thyroid coming back after RAI.. where are you located or so you have a recommendation in the Seattle, Washington or even in Oregon?
Hi Jennifer,
Unfortunately I don’t have a referral in those areas, but you can visit the website for the Institute for Functional Medicine and perform a search for local practitioners. Just keep in mind that not everyone can have their thyroid health restored after receiving RAI, but even if this is the case with you the autoimmune component of Graves’ wasn’t addressed by the RAI.
I had RAI in 2009 and haven’t felt “normal” since. I have tried several different diets (paleo, whole30, GAPS, etc) but still haven’t found optimal health. I have done lots of research but it seems there are a lot more answers for those suffering from Hashimotos and very little for those diagnosed with Graves. I am discouraged and need help. I currently take 112mg of synthroid and have been told my thyroid is completely dead. Was just about to embark on the AIP Protocol diet. Is that a good idea or is there a better diet for someone with Graves who has undergone RAI. Any help or advice is greatly appreciated.
Jamie, what you need to keep in mind is that diet can greatly help in many cases, but there might be other imbalances you have that need to be addressed. I do commonly recommend for my patients with Graves’ disease and Hashimoto’s to follow the AIP diet for at least 30 days, and while some people significantly feel better after following it, others don’t notice any change. This doesn’t mean that the diet wasn’t beneficial, but only that there are other factors responsible for the autoimmune component. There can be adrenal and/or other hormone imbalances, gut dysbiosis, etc. So the goal should be to try to find out what these underlying imbalances are, which I realize is easier said than done, and is why I recommend working with a natural healthcare practitioner.
i had radio iodine treatment for right side hyperthyroidism, in August,2018, its been 1 month , i feel weakness, tiredness, always sleepy, is it because of this or it is not and i need consult normal physician for the same?
Also i had a colloid cyst on the left side, which was removed by doing FNAC.
M really worried about the weakness and tiredness..please suggest.
It might take some time for your health to improve, but just keep in mind that the radioactive iodine treatment didn’t do anything to address the cause of the hyperthyroidism. While it wouldn’t be a bad idea to consult with the doctor who recommended the RAI, I would also recommend working with a natural healthcare practitioner to help correct other imbalances you may have.
I had RAI (twice) 25 years ago for Graves Disease and have never taken any thyroid medication since. I was told as I got older, chances were that I would develop hypothyroidism. I am now 56 and have been experiencing all the symptoms of hypothyroidism; however, all blood work comes back normal. I am left to believe these symptoms are from menopause, but remain skeptical. I researched taking MACA to balance hormones, but have read that it can negatively impact the thyroid. Any thoughts would be welcomed.
Barb, some are concerned with maca since it’s from the Brassica family, which are supposedly goitrogenic (inhibits thyroid activity). All I can say is that I’ve recommended maca to many of my patients over the years, and most do fine. Also keep in mind that in order to have healthy sex hormones you need to have healthy adrenals.
I had RAI in 2010 (when I was 40) for a diagnosis of Graves disease, and have been on Synthroid and miserable ever since. (In hindsight, I honestly think I was misdiagnosed.) If I were to begin the AIP diet, would I continue to take my meds? What ramifications are there, if any, if I were to stop taking the Synthroid all together? What are your thoughts around the idea of the Epstein-Barr virus being the root cause behind thyroid problems? Thank you for your insight.
When I was a few years younger I took RadioActive Iodine on muliple occasions not knowing what it would do, and now I am 17 and have been taking thyroid replacement pills for over a year due to a sudden Hypothyroidism which I now suspect may have been caused…Is there any way I can get back to normal?
Bill, while it is possible for some people who have taken RAI to restore their thyroid health, there isn’t any way to know this for certain. While I would recommend working with a natural healthcare professional, just keep in mind that there is no single supplement that will reverse this process, as you need to take a whole body approach.
my hyperthyroid is from a single nodule..tapazole cant solve it because its not from graves.so only rai can solve the problem.
Edward, addressing the cause of the thyroid nodule may help, although I admit that this can be challenging in some cases.
Had Radiation a few years ago, 16.9 was the dose. I started out normal than progressively got hypo. Currently on 130 Armour, with occasional Hyperthyroid issues every once in a while, last bout had me off thyroid meds for 3 weeks. Still having Graves eye issues. Would love to chat about a protocol. I think there is still some tissue alive and I want my thyroid back. If there is anything I can tell people is that you are NEVER the same after Radiation and you will still have Grave’s symptoms like dry eyes, bulging eyes, hives, digestive issues and more.
Thank you for sharing your experience Stephanie, as I’m sorry that you’re still experiencing some symptoms, and I agree that it’s worth following a natural treatment protocol in your situation. While there is no guarantee that your thyroid health will be completely restored back to normal, it still is important to improve the health of your immune system.
It would be good to have a thyroid cancer treatment. If this can help thyroid problems, that would be great. If I had thyroid problems, I would want to get treated no matter what.
Dave, although I don’t personally treat thyroid cancer, there are natural healthcare practitioners who work with thyroid cancer patients.
I had RAI 31 years ago For Graves disease my TSH levels have been ok; but I havnt felt good since a month after having it. I’v had depression bipolar, schizoaffective symptoms for most of thoses years. They were not apart of my life before the iodine treatment. I have dry skin , constipated itchy skin behind my ears dry mouth lack of energy,inattention and impotancy other things.
Hello Doc. I received rai treatment a few years ago because i was over active and was on carbimazole. I really regret having rai its made me miserable and depressed and has given me brain fog. I was fine in that sense when i was over active. I was just quick tempered but thats something that can be worked on. I just want to get back to how i was again. There has to be a way to kick start the thyroid again. I want that very much i just want to feel normal again. Please can you give some advice on how i can may be achieve that. Its the depression and brain fog that i can’t deal with. I havnt put weight on thank God, infact i am underweight which is not really a good thing. I’m always looking for ways to lift the brain fog and depression and also anxiety. And my memory is weak too. But nothing is working. I’m dire straits. Please help.
I just switched to amour thyriod 120 after being on Levo for years I had my radio treatment and ptu also but that was 6-7 yrs ago my test for TSH is 2.41 but my t3 is186 and my free t4 is0.81.My doctor says I don’t need the t3&t4 test because the tsh is normal and I no longer have a thyroid, I am confused I don’t have insurance and paying for the tests is hard and I don’t feel ok