Trying for remission - what to expect?

[Chloececilia]

Hi everyone,

This month is my 18th month of treatment for an overactive thyroid with Hashi's antibodies and no Graves antibodies. I have been on block and replace for the majority of treatment which, as I have gathered, is a little unusual for Hashi's patients although finally my levels are normal on 2 x 20mg Carb and 75mcg thyroxine.

My endo has advised to come off all medications this month to see if I remit. I am not at all sure what to expect. I don't even actually know if my thyroid is truly overactive or underactive now. This was all triggered after giving birth in May 2014. Symptoms starting around the August/September.

How long do your levels have to be euthyroid to be classed as being in remission?

If I wasn't to remit, is there a certain amount of time it would take for me to feel symptoms again?

Should I ask to have autoantibodies retested before coming off of medication?

When should I book a blood test after coming off?

Many thanks!

[Clutter]

Chloececilia,

There's no set time in which symptoms will return if remission fails. Graves and hyperthyroid patients are considered to be in remission if they remain euthyroid for 12 months. It will take around 8 weeks to clear Levothyroxine from your system, less for Carbimazole, so I imagine a blood test around 8-12 would be desirable.

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I am not a medical professional and this information is not intended to be a substitute for medical guidance from your own doctor. Please check with your personal physician before applying any of these suggestions.

[Chloececilia in reply to Clutter]

Thank you for your insight, Clutter!

[shaws Administrator]

As you became hyperthyroid after your baby, I shall give you a link which might help to explain what happens. I am hypothyroid and don't have experience of hyper. Some women for the first time after having a baby can experience hypo/hyper activity. Read from the date September 11, 2004

web.archive.org/web/2010103...

[Chloececilia in reply to shaws]

That's a great link, shaws. Thank you.

[shaws Administrator in reply to Chloececilia]

At least it explains much better what can happen after delivery, particularly to new Mothers or others who haven't experienced a flare-up.

I hope you get better soon.