Effects of radioactive iodine on hypo condition

[JMHW]

I need info and advice! A friend of mine is about to have radioactive iodine treatment for hyperthyroidism. I have a longstanding hypothyroid condition (originating from Hashimoto's) and take Levothyroxine daily. I have been unable to find any information about the risk to me of contact, both directly, and through handling books, files etc in a confined space (we are both volunteers in a community project).

I note that standard advice states the radioactive person should avoid contact with others for several days, avoid contact with children and pregnant women for several weeks, and avoid pregnancy themselves for six months. But I have not seen any advice concerning effects on people who already have a hypo condition. I know the thyroid is very sensitive and absolutely cannot risk any further damage to mine. What precautions should I take – for how long should I avoid contact with my friend after her treatment? Even the slightest further damage to my thyroid would be devastating for me as I have arrived at a settled dose and feel OK after many years juggling.

[bantam12]

The advice is usually avoid close contact as in actually touching, arms length was the advice when I had it.

[shirleyh14]

Hi I had a radium implant over forty years ago and straight after the op had to lay totally flat for five days until most activity subsided. I was told not to sneeze, cry or, fly! ( certainly wasn't well enough to fly anyhow! ) for at least six months so that the implant didn't get dislodged. I went out on a sunny day and my arms swelled up!

I developed hypo-thyroidism as a result of the tumour and radium destroying my pituitary gland. My actual thyroid gland is good but, my pituitary doesn't send any signals to other glands as a result of a pituitary tumour.

So my condition and experience is quite different ! hope this has been of some help.