20 Secrets of Successful Thyroid Patients

Ideas and information on things patients can do to feel their best

I've been a thyroid patient advocate for five years, and along the way, I've had the privilege of speaking with thousands of thyroid patients each year. I also have talked to, interviewed or heard from hundreds of the world's most popular practitioners. People who feel well tend to do some of the same things. I wanted to share them with you.

1. Find a great doctor who will be your partner in wellness -- not an egotist who won't listen or work towards your wellness. Your first stop? The Thyroid Top Doc Directory, where patients like you have recommended their favorite practitioners around the world. Thyroid Top Docs Directory.

2. Once you've found a great practitioner, learn how to effectively deal with her or him. Dr. Carol Roberts has some great advice!

3. Know when to get a second opinion. Sometimes, even if you have a great doctor, it's good to get another viewpoint. Find out when it's time, and how to get a second opinion.

4. If you can't get tested by your doctor, get tested yourself! There are a variety of services offering reliable TSH testing without requiring a doctor's prescription or office visit. Find out more.

5. Be as informed as you can. That may mean that you need to learn as much -- if not more -- than your doctor knows about thyroid disease! And one of the best ways is to read several of the top thyroid-related books!

6. The best thyroid drug is the one that works safely and best for you. Find out how you can and should choose the right thyroid drug for you.

7. Insist on getting copies of your test results and records. After all, you own them, says patient rights expert, Marie Savard, MD in this patient empowerment guide.

8. Be open to the use of alternative medicine. Some of the thyroid patients who feel the best are following integrative therapies that combine traditional and alternative approachs.

9. Battle the bulge the minute you see any signs of weight gain. The patients who have had the most success are ones who have changed their diet and exercise as soon as they notice thyroid-related weight gain. A good starting point for information is the Thyroid Weight Loss Information Center.

10. Don't overconsume soy. Some experts believe that the current epidemic of thyroid problems may be due to America's love affair with soy. While some soy foods can be good for use, turning soy into a medicine by overcoming soy pills and powders is a danger to your thyroid health. Learn more now!