How long does it take for radioactive iodine treatment to work?

The effect of this treatment on the thyroid gland usually takes between one and three months to develop. Maximum benefit occurs three to six months after treatment. Usually, a single dose is successful in treating hyperthyroidism. However, rarely, a second treatment is necessary.

What are side effects of radioactive iodine therapy I 131?

What are the side effects of radioactive iodine?

• Neck tenderness and swelling.
• Nausea.
• Swollen salivary glands.
• Loss of taste or taste change.
• Dry mouth/insufficient salivary production.
• Dry eyes.
• Excessive tearing from the eyes.

What can I expect from RAI therapy?

Radioactive iodine therapy does not often cause side effects right away. Some people may have neck pain, nausea, dry eyes, and dry mouth. Swelling and tenderness in the salivary glands may also occur. Chewing gum or sucking on hard candy may help these symptoms.

Will I gain weight after radioactive iodine treatment?

They undergo treated with antithyroid drugs or with medication plus radioactive iodine treatment (RAI). Following treatment for hyperthyroidism, patients will observe a steady weight gain despite not changes in their eating or exercise.

Does Rai hurt?

Radioactive iodine treatment can make your neck swell up or hurt. Nausea or vomiting, which is usually mild.

How will I feel after radioactive iodine?

A swollen or tender neck and feeling flushed Some people may have a feeling of tightness or swelling in their neck for a few days after treatment. This is more common if you still had a large part of your thyroid gland when you have radioactive iodine treatment. Some people also feel flushed.

How does I-131 work to treat thyroid cancer?

Thyrogen is recombinant TSH and these injections will elevate the TSH level in your blood, which in turn stimulates the thyroid cells to take up the I-131. You will continue to take your usual thyroid hormone pill during this time, so you will not have any “hypothyroid” (low thyroid hormone) symptoms.

How to prepare for radioactive iodine ( I-131 ) therapy?

Although I-131 is a pill, you cannot simply take the pill without prior preparation. To prepare you for I-131 therapy and to maximize the effects I-131, there are two things that must happen. First, you must follow a low iodine diet for 1-2 weeks to deplete your body of iodine.

What should I do after treatment with I-131?

Your treatment team will give you a list of other precautions to take following your treatment with I-131. The following guidelines comply with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission: Use private toilet facilities, if possible, and flush twice after each use. Bathe daily and wash hands frequently. Drink a normal amount of fluids.

When do you need to be in the hospital after Rai treatment?

Your body will give off radiation for some time after you get RAI therapy. Depending on the dose of radioiodine used and where you are being treated, you might need to be in the hospital for a few days after treatment, staying in a special isolation room to prevent others from being exposed to radiation. Some people may not need to be hospitalized.