Thyroid Articles from Mary Shomon: 1997-Present

Are You Living in a Fat City?
Three years after holding the embarrassing title as America's fastest city, Houston has finally shed its bad reputation, dropping to number two on the Men's Fitness list of "fattest cities" in America. The top spot now goes to... (Jan 7, 2004)

Americans Making -- and Keeping -- Health-Related New Year's Resolutions... Sort of...
As sure as the sun will rise, Americans greet each new year with a battery of vows to do things differently during the coming 12 months, but according to a new survey, we're not all that serious about the health-related resolutions we do make.... (Jan 7, 2004)

Despite Ban, Ephedra Will Remain In Common Cold-Flu Medications
Despite the FDA's upcoming ban on ephedra in diet supplements, high doses of its active ingredient will remain in many over-the-counter drugs used by millions of Americans every day... (Jan 7, 2004)

Is McDonald's Actually Getting Healthy?
McDonald's restaurants is attempting to revamp its image by launching a new campaign, starting in the NY/NJ/CT area. The campaign, called McDonald's Real Life Choices, shows consumers how to order their McDonald's menu items and stay on track, whether they're watching calories, fat or carbohydrates. (Jan 7, 2004)

Citrus Said to be a Secret Weight-Loss Weapon!
With its high fiber content and low glycemic load, citrus fruits may be a secret weight-loss weapon. Research suggests that dieter might be more successful if they select foods with staying power like whole citrus that help curb appetite and prevent overeating rather than employing some of the current fad diets. It has been shown that a person can actually eat... (Jan 7, 2004)

Are Carbohydrates Your Biggest Food Weakness?
In a recent national survey, fifty-four percent (54%) of all Americans said that their biggest food weakness was carbohydrates. Is it yours? (Jan 7, 2004)

Weight Loss: Eat To Live - Not Live To Eat
Wendy Hearn has some thoughts about why we eat... "Do you find yourself eating food when you're not even hungry? I've noticed that others, myself included, often eat food without even stopping to assess whether we're hungry or not. (Jan 7, 2004)

Weight Loss & Feeling Great Go Hand-In-Hand, Right?
Phil Beckett has some thoughts about whether or not you are afraid of losing weight... "A lot of women seem to have a great fear of success when it comes to weight loss. It ultimately holds them back from achieving their goals. (Jan 7, 2004)

The Good News and Bad News About Self-Control
Psychologist Dr. Pauline Wallin has some terrific thoughts about how to get and keep self-control... "January. Gone are the TV commercials for wine, diamonds and other indulgences. They've been replaced by ads for exercise equipment, diet programs and low-calorie foods. There is a lot of talk about self-control at this time of year, but most people give up on their efforts after a couple of weeks...(Jan 7, 2004)

11/19/03 -- Asthma & Thyroid Disease / Q&A With Dr. David Derry
Could asthma symptoms be related to the thyroid?

11/19/03 -- Adrenal Problems / Q&A With Dr. David Derry
Is a low adrenal problem interfering with thyroid treatment?

11/19/03 -- Low Milk Supply & Breastfeeding With Thyroid Problems / Q&A With Dr. David Derry
Any thoughts on why some thyroid patients seem to have such tremendous difficulty with low milk supply when attempting to breastfeed?

11/19/03 -- Going from Hypothyroidism to Hyperthyroidism / Q&A With Dr. David Derry
Is it unusual to go from hypothyroid to hyperthyroid?

11/19/03 -- Sulfur Allergies & Levoxyl/ Q&A With Dr. David Derry
Can Levoxyl be a problem for people with sulfure allergies?

11/19/03 -- Urticaria (Hives) and Thyroid Problems Sulfur Allergies & Levoxyl/ Q&A With Dr. David Derry
Can acute urticaria (hives) and acute angioedema (swelling) that doesn't respond to antihistamine and steroid respond to thyroid treatment?

11/19/03 -- Alone for the Holidays?
Being alone during the holidays can be a challenge to mind and body health, but Dr. Margaret Paul has some excellent suggestions on how to make the holidays joyous rather than depressing.

11/19/03 -- Getting the Thyroid-Dangerous Perchlorate Out of Your Water
A solution is imminent for the nation's worst drinking water contaminant -- perchlorate -- which can damage the thyroid gland.

11/19/03 -- King Pharmaceuticals Has Recalled Levoxyl
The FDA has released information on yet another recall for Levoxyl. (Yes, this is a NEW recall, but recalls of Levoxyl are beginning to sound like a broken record!) If you take Levoxyl, here are details on the recall.

11/06/03 -- Alone for the Holidays?
Being alone during the holidays can be a challenge to mind and body health. Get expert advice and suggestions on how to make the holidays joyous rather than depressing.

11/06/03 -- Clinical Diagnosis of Thyroid Disease / Q&A With Dr. David Derry
I have vacillating periods/episodes of HYPER and hypothyroid symptoms. I'm trying to find more out more about Hashitoxicosis, as I think that's what is going on.

11/06/03 -- Graves' Disease & Stress / Q&A With Dr. David Derry
Can Graves' disease be triggered by stressors such as exposure to toxic molds?

11/06/03 -- Green Tea & Fluoride / Q&A With Dr. David Derry
I have been reading that green tea contains toxic levels of fluoride. Do you agree with this?

11/06/03 -- Goiters / Q&A With Dr. David Derry
Do you know of any new treatment to shrink it down? I would really rather go that way instead of an operation.

11/06/03 -- Hypothyroid and Weight Changes / Q&A With Dr. David Derry
Can you be hypothyroid and not have one of the main symptoms, weight gain?

11/06/03 -- Invest In Your Health
You may think money or things will make you happy, but when it comes down it it, what really does it is simple: good health and better relationships. Dr. Dave Junno asks if it's time to reevaluate your priorities.

11/06/03 -- Getting Motivated to Diet and Exercise
Not having motivation is the most common thing that gets between your starting a health eating or exercise program. So, how DO you get motivated? Dr. Dave Junno has some ideas.

10/20/03 -- Breast Cancer, Tamoxifen, Thyroid & Weight Loss / Q&A With Dr. David Derry
A reader who has had breast cancer and is on tamoxifen, and has gained 65 pounds while hypothyroid, looks for advice.

10/20/03 -- Disappearing Iodine Test, and Thyroid Helper / Q&A With Dr. David Derry
What does Dr. Derry think about the disappearing iodine test, and the product known as Thyroid Helper.

10/20/03 -- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, TSH Levels, & More / Q&A With Dr. David Derry
A reader with chronic fatigue syndrome and weight loss wonders whether the problem is his thyroid, his adrenals, toxic exposures, diet or something else?

10/20/03 -- Hair Loss / Q&A With Dr. David Derry
A reader with severe patchy hair loss that is devastating her self esteem asks about ideas to try that won't break the bank.

10/20/03 -- Combined T4/T3 Therapy: Placebo or Tomato? An Assessment of the October 2003 T4/T3 Studies
Dr. Ken Woliner conducts an assessment of the October 2003 T4/T3 studies in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism. Are they valid studies? What do they mean for the typical patient? And will HE continue to prescribe T3 for his patients?

10/20/03 -- Dr. Ken Blanchard on the T4/T3 Studies
Dr. Ken Blanchard, MD, PhD, is author of upcoming book What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Hypothyroidism, which will be published in January 2004. Blanchard has these thoughts about the T4/T3 studies.

10/20/03 -- Emotional Energy: An Interview With Mira Kirshenbaum
What is emotional energy, why do you need it, and how does it differ from your physical energy? Author Mira Kirshenbaum shares her insightful perspectives on this precious resource that can truly change our lives. I am finding Mira's book a particular help in dealing with my own efforts to live well with a chronic health condition, and I'm sure you'll find this interview fascinating and empowering in your own efforts to live well!

10/18/03 -- Hypothyroidism Diagnosis and Treatment, With Dr. Ted Friedman
Noted L.A. endocrinologist and professor discusses his thoughts on the diagnosis and treatment of hypothyroidism.

09/25/03 -- Mary Shomon's Point-By-Point Response to Public Citizen's Retraction Letter
A point-by-point rebuttal of the inaccuracies found in Public Citizen's retraction letter.

09/25/03 -- Generic Letter Being Sent by Public Citizen's Peter Lurie & Betty Blount to Retract Misinformation About Armour Thyroid
Text of the retraction letter Public Citizen is sending.

09/25/03 -- Partial Retraction by Public Citizen
Public Citizen finally agrees to a partial retraction of one of its numerous errors about Armour Thyroid.

09/05/03 -- Mary Shomon's Letter to Public Citizen/Sidney Wolfe, MD
Mary Shomon's point-by-point rebuttal of the Public Citizen argument against Armour Thyroid is featured in this letter.

09/04/03 -- Sidney Wolfe's Response
Dr. Sidney Wolfe, head of Public Citizen's Health Research Group, offers a partial response to concerns re: the groups stance on Armour Thyroid.

09/04/03 -- Dear Betty Blount at Public Citizen: From One Nurse to Another
A nurse writes to Betty Blount to express concerns about Public Citizen's position re: Armour.

08/29/03 -- A Letter from Mary Shomon to Sidney Wolfe, MD, of Public Citizen/Worst Pills, Best Pills
Mary Shomon's August, 2003 letter to Dr. Sidney Wolfe of Public Citizen / Worst Pills, regarding their misguided and error-filled condemnation of Armour Thyroid.

08/28/03 -- Is Public Citizen a Public Menace for Thyroid Patients?
Self-described consumer advocates Public Citizen and their health newsletter "Worst Pills" have effectively abandoned the millions of American consumers with thyroid disease. How? By continuing to actively disseminate incorrect -- and potentially dangerous -- information about the thyroid drug Armour Thyroid. So what is this group (that claims to champion consumer rights) actually saying, why are they spreading lies about your thyroid drugs, and what can you do to help set them straight?

08/28/03 -- Start Your Healthy Living Plan Today!
When faced with needing to start eating a better diet or exercising, many of us say- "I'll start tomorrow". The trouble is that there is always another tomorrow, and we never get around to making key changes. Psychologist Dave Junno has advice that can help.

08/19/03 -- Fiona's Journey: From London Back to Greece
As she swelters in unprecedented heat, Fiona finds London anything but healthful as she figures out how to get back to Greece. This is Part III of Fiona's continuing saga, which began with her leaving her high-stress, 24/7 internet job in California to live on the Greek Island of Corfu!

08/19/03 -- "The Real Greek" Theorore Kyriakou Shares His Thoughts
One of London's hottest chefs shares his thoughts about food, flavour, and health -- Greek-style -- with roving thyroid patient and Greek island hopper Fiona Klonarides.

08/19/03 -- Fiona's Recipes: Green Peppers Stuffed With Feta
Here's Fiona's simple summer dish for "Green Peppers Stuffed With Feta," (Piperies Gemistes me Feta) that goes well with some fresh country bread and a nice chilled white wine.

08/05/03 -- The Top Five Supplements for Thyroid Support
Richard Shames, M.D. & Karilee Shames, Ph.D., R.N., thyroid experts and authors of Thyroid Power, offer their recommendations for the essential supplements all thyroid patients need.

08/03/03 -- Thyroid UK Conference Set for October 2003
The Thyroid UK organization has scheduled their conference in London for October 25th, and special guests include Dr. Barry Durrant-Peatfield, and Drs. John Lowe and Gina Honeyman-Lowe, Dr John Mansfield, Dr Brian McDonogh and others.

08/01/03 -- How to Find Out if Your Thyroid Is Causing Your Symptoms
A detailed, step-by-step instructional article that helps you and your doctor determine if your thyroid could be the cause of your symptoms. Dr. Ken Woliner walks you through the symptoms you should be looking for, how to measure your basal temperature -- including excellent instructions on how to monitor your basal body temperature! -- what your doctor should be looking for in a physical exam, and the various blood tests you can request. And Dr. Woliner answers the essential question: If you have normal laboratory tests, could your thyroid still be causing your symptoms?

08/01/03 -- Free T3: Understanding Thyroid Lab Tests
What is Free T3, and why should you be measuring it? Dr. Ken Woliner tackles the question of Free T3 levels. And while he's at it, he also looks at the perplexing issue of why the Free T3 normal range is sometimes listed as 3.5-7.7, and sometimes 0.2 - 0.5, and yet other times, 230 – 619. He'll help make sense of the seemingly unrelated numbers, and how you can understand and interpret your T3 levels.

07/30/03 -- Breastfeeding and Thyroid Disease
The good news is that, in most cases, if you have thyroid problems, you can safely breastfeed, whether your thyroid condition developed before, during or after pregnancy. But undiagnosed or insufficiently treated thyroid problems can cause low milk supply, and many women and their doctors don't realize it. Find out everything you need to know about thyroid disease and breastfeeding in this article, commemorating World Breastfeeding Week!

07/30/03 -- Dr. Bruce Fife's Positive Review of Coconut Oil
One of the nation's leading experts on coconut oil, and author of several books on the topic, Dr. Bruce Fife offers the positive perspective on coconut oil, suggesting that it can have positive benefits on both the thyroid and weight. Find out more from a coconut oil advocate.

07/30/03 -- Dr. Woliner's Comments to Dr. Bruce Fife
Dr. Woliner's not convinced on the issue, and offers his analysis of Dr. Fife's argument in favor of coconut oil. Find out why Dr. Woliner still doesn't believe the claims that coconut oil can help thyroid or weight problems.

07/24/03 -- Levoxyl Recalled Again
Is it time for the Levoxyl folks to go back to the drawing board? If I were taking Levoxyl -- which I'm not -- I would not be pleased with the fact that, yet again, Levoxyl's 112 mcg size pills are being recalled. Wait until you hear why! Here's the scoop...

07/24/03 -- Canadian Cancer Patients Can Now Get Thyrogen
Canadian thyroid cancer survivors can now get Thyrogen, which has just been approved.

07/24/03 -- Thyroid Drugs Don't Raise Hip Fracture Risk In Older Women
A new study has found that among women 65 and older who take thyroid hormone replacement drugs, the risk of hip fracture is not increased. This should help calm down the over-anxious endos who mistakenly think that taking thyroid hormone in the first place is some huge osteoporosis risk, versus the very real, demonstrable risks of untreated or undertreated hypothyroidism!

07/24/03 -- Thyroid Balance: The Interview
I had an opportunity to interview Glenn Rothfeld, MD, author of the book Thyroid Balance. He's a VERY interesting practitioner who combines alternative and conventional thyroid treatments, and has written one of the most readable and useful doctor-written books and shares his thoughts.

07/24/03 -- Are You Ready to Start Living a Healthier Life?
When you're faced with the need to make healthy changes, you're likely to do one of two things. Either you'll avoid thinking about the reasons why you need to make the change, because it feels too overwhelming, or you'll jump in before you're prepared, and end up failing and getting discouraged. Dave Junno helps you do it the right way!

07/24/03 -- Eating Healthier by Putting Things in Proportion
Too often we associate dieting with not eating. But one of the obstacles to maintaining a successful diet is not eating enough! And then you end up becoming hungrier. And when you're hungrier you want to eat even more. It's a vicious circle, and Dave Junno is going to help you break it!

07/15/03 -- Have You Been "Horrid" to Your Doctor? Or Vice Versa?
Sometimes, you can only take so much at the hands of your doctors before you snap, and let them have it. The Thyroid Forum members have some pretty amazing stories to share! Here are some excerpts, but be sure to drop in and visit the forum for the full story! And while you're there, take your time to share your own story of how you told off your doctor! Find out why one poster wrote said to her doctor, "My Thyroid is NOT Between My Legs!" Patients fight back and take on their doctors!

07/15/03 -- No More Unithroid? NOT SO!
I keep getting emails from people telling me that their pharmacists aren't filling prescriptions for the levothyroxine drug Unithroid. They say that the pharmacists have been reporting that Unithroid is going off the market. Sounded pretty wrong to me, so today I contacted Ron Steinlauf of Jerome Pharmaceuticals, manufacturer of Unithroid, and got the REAL story. The truth is: Unithroid is here to stay...

07/10/03 -- Chronic Hives Linked to Autoimmune Thyroid Disease
Chronic hives -- also known as urticaria -- in both adults and children is a condition linked to autoimmune thyroid disease, even in patients without thyroid symptoms, or clinical thyroid disease. Some patients' urticaria conditions respond to thyroid hormone replacement treatment. In other cases, antibiotic treatment has cleared up chronic urticaria. Learn more now.

07/10/03 -- How to Restore Your Metabolism
If you have symptoms of hypothyroidism, fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome, you'll want to read the Drs. Gina Honeyman-Lowe and John Lowe's practical guide. Info about the Lowe's is popular at my site, and now, I've done a review of their book, Your Guide to Metabolic Health, which offers a treatment program, called "metabolic rehabilitation" that they feel can effectively treat as many as 85% of patients with these problems.

07/09/03 -- In Thyroid Cancer Patients, Pre-Treatment with Thyrogen Can Reduce RAI Risk
Thyroid cancer patients who received Thyrogen (recombinant human thyroid-stimulating hormone, or rhTSH) prior to I-131 RAI therapy cleared the radioactive iodine more rapidly, and had lower radiation levels in their blood and tissues. This could be a good thing. BUT, does Thyrogen reduce the effectiveness of 131I in destroying the cancer being targeted? Find out more about this breaking research.

07/06/03 -- A Healthy Journey: Fiona Goes to Corfu, Part 2
When high-powered Internet exec Fiona is diagnosed with a thyroid condition, she decides to abandon her fast-paced, online, 24-7 life for a calmer, healing life on the island of Corfu. Here is part 2 of her real-life effort to run away to better health on a faraway island!

07/03/03 -- The Emotional Energy Factor: The Secrets High-Energy People Use to Beat Emotional Fatigue
What is the single biggest difference between people who get what they want and people who don't? "Energy!" says author Mira Kirshenbaum. And for thyroid patients, it can seem that energy is the last thing you have. But "The Emotional Energy Factor: The Secrets High-Energy People Use to Beat Emotional Fatigue" can help... by outlining 25 "secrets" to getting and keeping your emotional energy.

07/01/03 -- The Great Thyroid Scandal and How to Survive It
Controversial and innovative British thyroid pioneer Dr. Barry Durrant-Peatfield offers patient-oriented insights into thyroid disease in his new book, The Great Thyroid Scandal and How to Survive It. What is the scandal, and how can you possibly survive it?

06/27/03 -- Does Your Doctor Know About the New TSH Normal Range?
Even though recommended changes were announced last year, and the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists has suggested a change to diagnosis and treatment approaches, your doctor probably is still unaware that a major revamping has been done to the so-called "normal range" for Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) tests -- the primary blood test used by conventional doctors to diagnose thyroid disorders. Does your doctor know whether or not you really are testing "normal?" Find out now!

06/27/03 -- How Often is Your Doctor Doing the Right Thing?
According to a new study reported on in the New England Journal of Medicine, the likelihood that you will receive the correct diagnosis and treatment from your doctor is far less than you think. Doctors aren't doing what they're supposed to, and you are the one who loses, by receiving sub-standard care. Find out more about this important new study and what it means for you and your thyroid care.

06/16/03 -- Thyroid Patient Eileen Johnson to Be Featured on Today Show
On Friday June 27th, the Today Show will feature a segment highlighting singer and thyroid cancer survivor Eileen Johnson. Eileen, who has been profiled here at About.com, survived a teenage bout with thyroid cancer that nearly endangered her growing singing career, and has come out a singing sensation. The June 27th appearance coincides with the release of a new double-disc CD, Voices for Gilda. Eileen has two songs on the CD, along with famous performers including Elton John, Paul Simon, Celine Dion, Randy Travis, Sarah McLachlan, and more.

06/16/03 -- Raloxifene (Evista) May Block Thyroid Hormone Absorption
The osteoporosis drug raloxifene (Evista) may block thyroid hormone absorption, increasing the risk of hypothyroidism and symptoms in women with thyroid conditions. Some 2.5 million women who take both drugs may be at risk. Find out more about this important news.

06/12/03 -- Helping Our Fathers Commit to Living a Healthier Life
"Fourteen years ago my father died of a heart attack. This was the same year my son was born...My father was a good man, but paid little attention to his health. I often thought how if he had taken better care of himself he might still be part of our lives now." Men, don't miss Dave Junno's special Father's Day tribute to improving your health, and ladies, make sure the men you love read this important article.

06/12/03 -- When You Have No Thyroid
When you don't have a thyroid, you're considered hypothyroid. Find out more about why some people don't have a thyroid, and what they can do to feel their best, deal with symptoms, lose weight, and more.

06/05/03 -- Iodine and the Thyroid
Iodine is an essential element that enables the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. But do you need to take iodine or kelp supplements in order to feel well with your thyroid condition? Find out if it's time for iodine.

06/05/03 -- Does Iodine Make You Feel Better or Worse? Does Your Multivitamin Have Iodine?
Speak up in our patient polls!

06/04/03 -- Yoga -- The Path to Enlightenment
There are many paths to travel to enlightenment, and Dr. Brian Sheen explores one of the most ancient and perhaps most traveled paths -- yoga.

06/04/03 -- The Yoga of Alternative Therapy
You can understand alternative medicine, by looking at the basics of yoga. Dr. Brian Sheen explores this connection and what it meansn for your health.

05/29/03 -- Keeping Up the Good Work
How many times have you started a plan for healthier living, and after a few slip-ups given up? You're watching your diet, but after going off it a few times, the diet is out the window. Same with exercise -- you miss a day or two, then stop. Sound familiar? There are several stages in your efforts to change, and Dave Junno helps you figure out how to make those changes stick!

05/29/03 -- Making Healthy Changes Without Willpower!
You may think that doing the things that are good for you require willpower. And when you can't make changes in habits to improve your health, you think you lack willpower, and can become discouraged. Where do you really find willpower? How can you possibly create willpower? Dave Junno has some answers!

05/29/03 -- Studies Say Atkins Diet Works
Is low-carbing the answer for you? Medical journals now say it's an option.

05/29/03 -- Mercola's No-Grain Diet Published
Find out more about this innovative diet from Joseph Mercola.

5/22/03 -- Worst Pills, Best Pills Newsletter Warns Against Using Armour Thyroid
In an article heavy on accusations and short on fact, the May, 2003 issue of Public Citizen's Worst Pills, Best Pills disguises a shoddy, poorly researched and misguided opinion piece as analysis, and rehashes the tired old arguments against Armour Thyroid. What went wrong with this supposed consumer right champion?

5/22/03 -- American Assn of Clinical Endocrinologists – Again Behind the Times
In a USNews.com article on patient-ordered blood tests, the American Assn of Clinical Endocrinologists’ president Hossein Gharib has again distinguished himself as being behind the times and not in tune with patients. What did he say now?

5/22/03 -- Making Fun In The Sun Family-Safe
While time spent outdoors can mean fun in the sun for both children and parents, it also calls for caution. Here are a few tips for children and parents.

5/22/03 -- Free Menopause Guide
Nearly two million women will turn 50 this year and many of them have questions about changes that may be happening to their bodies. A free guide has some important answers.

5/22/03 -- Your Fat Cells Are Listening
If you keep telling your body it is FAT, it will continue to be fat for you. How can you change the tune your fat cells are hearing? Energy therapist Carol Tuttle has some wonderful advice.

5/22/03 -- Forest Pharmaceuticals Recalls Levothroid
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued recalls for certain Levothroid products, made by Forest Pharmaceuticals. Find out if your thyroid medicine is affected.

5/22/03 -- King Pharmaceuticals Recalls Levoxyl
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a recall for particular batches of Levoxyl, made by King Pharmaceuticals. Find out if your thyroid medicine is affected.

5/22/03 -- Why You MUST Review Your Lab Tests Yourself!
A reader wrote to share some excellent advice for women who are trying to get pregnant, and why you absolutely must review your own lab test results yourself.

5/20/03 -- Is Coconut Oil a Thyroid and Diet Cure?
The May 20, 2003 issue of Woman’s World featured a story “The New Thyroid Cure,” claiming that coconut oil can "cure" your hypothyroidism and ensure rapid weight loss. I asked Dr. Ken Woliner to tell us whether it's too good to be true.

5/16/03 -- Hair Loss Help for Thyroid/Autoimmune Patients
A comprehensive look at hair loss for thyroid patients, including why it happens, what you can do about it, and when it's more than just your thyroid. Covers autoimmune hair loss diagnosis and treatment, alopecia, and more!

5/8/03 -- Losing Weight by Finding Time
How can you make changes in your diet when you have such a busy schedule and so many things to do? Find out from psychologist Dave Junno why one hour a day is all it takes to make the difference to your life, and your weight loss efforts!

5/8/03 -- Going Backward Towards Success With Healthier Living
What do you do when you're making an effort to watch your diet or exercise, and you hit a wall. You eat some junk food, or skip a day of exercise, and can't get back on track. When you find youroself unable to move forward, what can you do? Go backward, says psychologist, Dave Junno. Find out his secret.

5/8/03 -- Paying Attention for Healthier Living
Are you finding yourself on autoimatic pilot, and not paying attention to routines and habits that affect your health? Discover these three ways to help make healthier choices, from psychologist Dave Junno.

5/8/03 -- From Gym to Swim: How to Turn Indoor Exercises into a Water Workout
So it’s too hot to walk or run outside in the summer, you say? Don’t feel like riding a bike or playing tennis in the heat? Do you want to enjoy your outdoor summer exercise without that sweaty, sticky feeling? Hop into the pool, and get a great workout says fitness expert Maia Appleby!

5/8/03 -- 7 Days Of Transformation
Can you transform yourself in just a week? Personal empowerment coach Sibyl McLendon gives you a 7-day program that can help you focus your energy, and making lasting and important changes in your life.

5/8/03 -- How to Break Out of a Weight Loss Plateau
When you're on a diet, but you hit a point where for a few weeks you're simply not losing weight, you're at a plateau. How can you break through and keep losing? Here are six suggestions to help.

5/5/03 -- Hypothyroid Health Journey: Fiona Goes to Corfu
After diagnosis with hypothyroidism, Fiona Klonarides left a high-powered round-the-clock high-tech internet job in California, and decided to truly get away from it all, settling for a simple life in a small village on the Greek island of Corfu. Here is part 1 in an ongoing series of Fiona's adventures in life, love, and finding health and happiness.

5/1/03 -- The Thyroid/Fibromyalgia Connection
A significant percentage of the estimated 20 million people with hypothyroidism are diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Besides similar symptoms, just what is the connection between these two misunderstood conditions? If you're hypothyroid and in pain, could it be fibromyalgia? Find out the latest thoughts on this important connection.

5/1/03 -- Adrenal Fatigue/Adrenal Exhaustion
Adrenal fatigue may be the reason that you don't feel well, despite your thyroid treatment. If you are continuing to experience fatigue, low energy, poor stamina, and little resistance to stress and infection, you may be adrenally exhausted. Find out the signs and symptoms, and the treatments.

4/29/03 -- Suspect Salads: Lettuce May Be Toxic To Your Thyroid
New research has shown that lettuce grown in the fall and winter months in Southern California or Arizona -- providing much of the lettuce Americans eat all winter -- may contain higher levels of toxic rocket fuel byproduct, perchlorate, than is considered safe by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. According to the Environmental Working Perchlorate can cause thyroid problems, and is of particular concern to unborn children. Are you, your family and thyroid health at risk simply from eating salads?

4/25/03 -- Ultrasound is Best Test for Recurrent Thyroid Cancer in the Neck, Say Experts
Researchers have concluded that ultrasonography of the neck is more sensitive than I-131 scanning or serum thyroglobulin measurements for detecting recurrence of differentiated thyroid cancer in the neck.

4/25/03 -- Drought in Your Mouth? Dry Mouth and What It Means for Your Health
If one of the many people, in particular thyroid patients, who suffer from chronic dryness of the mouth, you know how unpleasant, annoying and even dangerous it can be. And if you don't know about this symptom, what it can mean, an dhow to treat it, find out more now.

4/25/03 -- Medicare Expands PET Scan Coverage to Thyroid Cancer
Medicaid coverage will be expanded to include positron emission tomography -- or PET -- scans for thyroid cancer.

4/25/03 -- Genetic Link to Thyroid Cancer Found
A single genetic mistake is responsible for about two-thirds of papillary thyroid cancer cases, say experts.

4/25/03 -- Researchers Find T3 Helps Unresponsive Major Depression
Patient with severe, unresponsive major depression are more likely to respond to antidepressant therapy when the thyroid hormone T3 is added.

4/25/03 -- You Are Who You Associate With
Are you wasting years of valuable energy and time trying to change someone for the better because you see their "potential?" Part of your journey toward wellness depends on your fellow travelers. Personal empowerment coach Sibyl McLendon offers some life-changing advice.

4/25/03 -- 10 Ways To Feel Good About Your Life
Feeling good about your life involves just 2 parts. eally! Professional life coach Kathy Gates shares 10 terrific ideas to help you feel good about your life... starting today!

4/25/03 -- Health Insurance for the Self Employed
Health insurance -- having enough and being able to afford it -- is one of the most nagging concerns for those who leave corporate America to run their own business. Find out more about health insurance when you work for yourself with self-employment benefits expert Daniel Lamaute.

4/22/03 -- April 2003 Polls
Which hypothyroidism symptom is truly the worst? Which thyroid hormone drug do YOU think works best? How much weight did your thyroid make you gain? What diet workd best for you? Do you need to exercise? What's you optimal TSH? The best and worst things about your doctor? And much more! Find out what your fellow patients have to say, and add your own opinions!

4/11/03 -- Underactive Thyroid May Reduce Breast Cancer Risk
Researchers have discovered that hypothyroidism may reduce the risk of breast cancer, and even the invasiveness of breast cancer in women who are hypothyroid. A major news development for women with hypothyroidism, just announced this week!

4/08/03 -- Antiradiation Pills Are Urged for Children
Pediatricians urge parents, schools and daycare to stockpile thyroid-protective potassium iodide pills to protect children in the even of nuclear exposure.

4/08/03 -- Potassium Iodide Resources
Resources and articles on the potassium iodide pill issue.

4/08/03 -- American Academy of Pediatrics Press Release on Antiradiation Pills for Children
Text of the official press release from the American Academy of Pediatrics recommending the use of potassium iodide in the even of nuclear exposure.

4/06/03 -- Avoiding Common Thyroid Pitfalls
"Easy to diagnose, easy to treat..." That's the simple -- but erronesus -- mantra you'll hear about thyroid disease from many physicians. This assumption leads many patients - and doctors - to get sidetracked by common pitfalls. Here's a guide on how to avoid them.

4/03/03 -- Seven Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Hypothyroidism
When hypothyroidism sets in after RAI or thyroidectomy, or you're diagnosed due to Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, here are the seven critical questions you need to ask your doctor, and info on how to apply the results to your health.

4/03/03 -- Frequently Asked Questions About SARS
Here are the frequently asked questions about the new virus, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) that is sweeping the globe.

4/03/03 -- Forest Pharmaceuticals Recalls Thyrolar
Forest has issued a recall on certain batches of the popular thyroid drug Thyrolar. Find out which lots, and why.

4/03/03 -- Is Graves Ophthalmopathy Preventable?
Can you prevent thyroid eye disease and Graves Ophthalmopathy? Some experts think so. Find out how now.

4/03/03 -- RAI Controversies
Controversies still go on about RAI, including risks of worsening Graves' ophthalmopathy, the interaction with antithyroid drugs, and use of RAI for large goiters. Find out what experts are saying about RAI and why it's still controversial in some circles.

4/03/03 -- European Endos Say Drugs, Surgery, Not RAI
RAI comes in dead last as a choice for hyperthyroidism treatment in patients with any thyroid eye disease in Europe...Get the details now.

4/03/03 -- Hear Mary on the Radio -- April 5, 2003
If you're in the San Diego or surrounding area, listen Saturday April 5 at 9 a.m. Pacific, 12 noon Eastern to Don Bodenbach's one-hour live interview with Mary Shomon on KCEO AM 1000.

4/03/03 -- New England Workshop for Thyroid Cancer May 3
The Third Annual New England Workshop for Thyroid Cancer Survivors is being held in Nashua, NH on May 3, 2003. Mary Shomon will be one of the presenters.

3/28/03 -- When to Take Potassium Iodide
The current war has many people concerned about potential future attacks using radioactive materials. Taking potassium iodide (KI) tablets after an incident involving radioactive materials may potentially protect the thyroid. Find out more on this now, in this Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) fact sheet.

3/20/03 -- FDA Opens Door for Generic Synthroid
Last week, the FDA turned down Abbott's request to change the way generic thyroid drugs are evaluated, paving the way for generic competitors to Synthroid. Was the Abbott proposal just a stalling tactic? Would you want a generic Synthroid? Find out more now.

3/20/03 -- Why You Can't Afford NOT to Speak Up!
Patient advocate Leslie Blumenberg thinks that every thyroid patient should know that unless you speak up on your own behalf, your health may be at stake! Find out the compelling reasons why you can't afford not to be your own advocate.

3/20/03 -- Should You Self-Medicate With Synthroid?
If you're taking a levothyroxine product like Synthroid, can you periodically increase or decrease your own dosage based on your symptoms? It's something many patients do without telling their doctors, but is it safe?

3/20/03 -- Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Levels and Menopausal Status
Is there any connection between menopausal symptoms, hormonal levels, and TSH levels in women 42-52? A new study looks at the possible connections.

3/20/03 -- Low-Iodine Diet: Yes or No?
For years, docs have debated whether thyroid cancer patients should follow a low-iodine diet to help make their radioiodine treatment more effective. Now, research comes down on one side of the issue.

3/20/03 -- Levoxyl Maker Target of Federal Investigations
The SEC and the FTC are both investigating Levoxyl manufacturer King Pharmaceuticals over a variety of pricing and business practices. Find out the details now.

3/13/03 -- 10 Signs That You Need a New Doctor
Do you leave message after message for your doctor, and never get a return call? Does your doctor dismiss the Internet as a source of quackery and nonsense? Does your doctor regularly recommend remedies that only he or she sells? Does your doctor sit at his or her desk and read, go through mail, or type on the computer while you are having an appointment? These are just a few signs that it might be time to find a new doctor. Explore these 10 signs, and see if it might be time for someone who can make a real difference in your health.

3/06/03-- Antioxidants and the Thyroid
Research has found that antioxidants may play a direct role in helping the thyroid. Find out more about these new studies!

3/06/03-- Selenium's Protective Powers
Can selenium protect your thyroid? French researchers have some new findings on the subject.

3/06/03-- Thyroid Cancer Survivors' Workshop
The Thyroid Cancer Survivors' of the Capital Area will be hosting a workshop for patients on April 5th, featuring noted area thyroid experts.

3/06/03-- What Are We Hungry For?
If we have to make changes in our diet to improve our health, one of the greatest challenges we face is hunger. But what are we really hungry for? Knowing the answer is the first step in weight loss.

3/06/03-- Ephedra: The Latest News on this Diet Supplement
The latest news on ephedra is neither new nor good for those who support its use. If you're taking ephedra, or considering it, you need to hear the latest report.

3/06/03-- Diagnosing and Managing Graves' Disease
A Canadian medical journal has summarized the discussion of the risks and benefits of conventional diagnosis and treatment approaches for Graves' disease. A good overview of the conventional perspective.

3/06/03-- What Do Those Lab Values Really Mean?
If you want to understand what your doctor is thinking when he/she looks at your T4, T3, Free T4, Free T3 and antithyroid antibodies levels, this article explains it all for you.

2/27/03-- Abbott Fights Synthroid Going Generic
Synthroid is now eligible to go generic...but will it? Will its manufacturer let it happen? Read all about the latest development in the contentious history of the top-selling thyroid drug, and what it may mean for you.

2/27/03-- Synthroid Lawsuit -- February 2003 Update
If you filed several years ago to be part of the class action lawsuit against Synthroid, are you still waiting for your check? Find out the latest on the status of the settlement, and whether you can expect payment anytime soon.

2/27/03-- Which Thyroid Drug Costs the Most?
When it's time to pay for your thyroid drugs, which ones put the biggest hole in your pocket? Which are the money-savers? Did you know one drug can cost as little as a third the price of another? Find out more now.

2/20/03-- Endos Say Normal TSH Now .3 to 3: Millions More at Thyroid Risk
Major news: American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists say that the new TSH "normal range" is now .3 to 3.0, and the narrower range doubles the number of people with thyroid conditions. But why has it taken the endos so long to figure this out, and why do they still think thyroid is so easy to diagnose and treat?

2/20/03-- Does TSH Measure Thyroid Status?
Does controversial endocrinologist Anthony Toft believe that TSH alone may not always reflect thyroid status, or that people who think they have a thyroid problem really have psychosocial problems? Find out more about Toft's provocative editorial.

2/20/03-- TSH is Inadequate for Measuring Hypothyroidism Severity
Researchers say that the effects of thyroid hormones at the peripheral tissues --and not TSH levels -- really show how severe hypothyroidism is. Find out more about this ground-breaking perspective.

2/20/03-- Relapses in Graves' Disease
Does antithyroid drug treatment with or without levothyroxine have an impact on your chance of a Graves' disease relapse? What about smoking? Researchers have determined the risks of relapse.

2/20/03-- Five Steps to Preventing Medication Errors
Medication errors occur every day, both in the health care setting and at home. Although no medicine is entirely risk-free, you can take precautions. Here are five key steps to ensure your safety.

2/20/03-- Potassium Iodine Update
Two companies have received FDA approval for retail distribution of potassium iodide, and Consumerlab has run an assessment of the quality of various potassium iodide products on the market. Find out more about this key supplement.

2/20/03-- Latest Weight Loss News: Personal Trainers, Live to Eat
Should you work with a personal trainer? Can you eat to live, not live to eat? Find out more in the latest weight loss news developments.

2/12/03-- Dispelling Myths About Health Insurance
One in seven Americans lacks health insurance of any kind. If you don't think this is a serious problem, keep reading, because the risks of having no health coverage are great for both the uninsured and for all Americans.

2/11/03-- Hysterectomy Increases Risk of Thyroid Cancer
Researchers report a substantially increased risk of thyroid cancer in women who have undergone hysterectomy.

2/11/03 -- More Heart Disease Risk Factors Found for Hypothyroidism
Researchers have found that hypothyroidism is typically accompanied by elevated levels of C-reactive protein and total homocysteine, two key risk factors for coronary heart disease.

1/30/03-- I'm a New Me
If having a thyroid problem makes you grouchy, Jody LaFerriere will help change your attitude with her light-hearted list of positive things to think about.

1/30/03-- The 10 Things Your Doctor May Not Have Told You About Graves’ Disease
Expert and author Elaine Moore shares important information about Graves' disease and hyperthyroidism that you need to know.

1/16/03-- New Survey Reveals That Thyroid Patients Need Answers, Better Treatment
Despite the fact that an estimated 1 in 10 Americans suffer from thyroid problems, these common conditions are still misunderstood by doctors, as evidenced by recent research among thyroid patients. This first independent, qualitative survey looks at thyroid patient concerns such as unrelieved symptoms, weight, attitudes toward patient organizations, and effective treatments and solutions.

1/16/03-- 2003 Campaign Encourages Awareness of Mild Thyroid Failure, Importance of Routine Testing
Did you know that 1 in 10 Americans - more than the number of Americans with diabetes and cancer combined - suffer from thyroid disease, yet half remain undiagnosed? This year's Thyroid Awareness Month annual awareness campaign -- titled Hiding in Plain Sight: Thyroid Undercover -- sponsored by AACE, is focusing on this issue.

1/14/03-- Survey Results: 2003 Thyroid Survey
These are the detailed results of the first patient quality-of-life survey of nearly 1000 patients. The study is the first to look at critical patient concerns such as unrelieved symptoms, weight problems, attitudes toward patient organizations, smoking behavior, and effective treatments and solutions, among many others.

1/14/03-- Summary of 2003 Thyroid Survey Results: First Patient Quality-of-Life Survey of Nearly 1000 Patients Published
A summary of the first patient quality-of-life survey of nearly 1000 patients. The study is the first to look at critical patient concerns such as unrelieved symptoms, weight problems, attitudes toward patient organizations, smoking behavior, and effective treatments and solutions, among many others.

1/9/03-- Thoughts and Feelings: How They Can Cause Thyroid Problems
Dr. Brian Sheen, a best selling author and Director of The Quantum Healing Center in Delray Beach, Florida, explores his theories regarding how the accumulation of unexpressed thoughts and feelings can cause low thyroid. Rread this fascinating spiritual therapy-based approach toward thyroid treatment.

1/9/03-- Should Thyroid Patients Get a Smallpox Vaccination?
The the smallpox vaccine safe for thyroid patients? Is it only a concern for people taking immunosuppressant drugs, or should all autoimmune patients be concerned? Should you be vaccinated only if exposed to smallpox? Dr. Richard Shames explores the question.

1/1/03-- Spate of Thyroid Cases Baffles Army
A dramatic spike in cases of an overactive thyroid struck a U.S. Army Special Forces unit based in Fort Campbell, Ky. in the late 1990s, and Army doctors are at a loss to explain why. Find out more now.

1/1/03-- Thyroid at Root of Many Symptoms
Gaining weight, losing weight, exhaustion, the blahs, anxiousness, insomnia, constipation, hair loss, dry skin, pounding heart, infertility -- just about any ailment that can plague a woman often can be traced back to a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the neck called the thyroid. WebMD's Star Lawrence talks to Mary Shomon, Ken Blanchard, and others re: this common condition.

1/1/03-- Alt.Support.Thyroid Publishes New Desiccated Thyroid Info Pages
Information on desiccated thyroid, including a call for a research trial of desiccated thyroid drugs. Isn't it time that researchers looked at the effectiveness of desiccated thyroid, compared to synthetics?

1/1/03-- Perchlorate in the News
Eating lettuce or other veggies may expose some consumers to high levels of the thyroid-toxic rocket fuel perchlorate. Perchlorate is increasingly in the news this year, and knowing more about this toxin may help protect you and your family.

1/1/03-- Radioactive Thyroid Patients May Set Off Terrorist Detectors
Some patients who have received radioactive tests or treatments such as the radioactive iodine (RAI) given to patients with an overactive thyroid are setting off the detectors designed to catch terrorists. Some patients are even being detained. If you have had RAI and are going to be traveling, or in government buildings and transportation centers, here are some guidelines.

1/1/03-- Smallpox Information Center
Find out about the disease, the vaccine, and the relationship between smallpox vaccine and autoimmune conditions, and why you may not be a good candidate for this vaccine. Also, controversies over forced vaccination, and healthworkers who will not give the vaccine.

1/1/03-- Home Sweet (Achoo!) Home
If you think your home is the safest place to be when it's cold and windy outside, think again. Your house or apartment could be making you sick -- especially if you're prone to allergies.

1/1/03-- Omega-3s Can Help Autoimmune Disease
Omega-3 essential fatty acids from fish oils may be an answer for some autoimmune conditions. Find out how these potent nutrients can help you.

1/1/03-- Staying Influenza-Free
Thyroid patients seem to get the flu more often, and it lasts longer, so even more important to avoid getting it! A prompt and proper diagnosis can help you give flu and other respiratory diseases the cold shoulder this season, so you don't have to lose a minute of work or play to feeling ill. Here are some tips on how to stay influenza-free.

1/1/03-- Clinical Trials-What Are They?
Though many people read about clinical trials, not all know exactly what they are or who participates in them. Are you eligible for a clinical trial? Could it be a help to you? Find out more now.

1/1/03-- Understanding Health Claims
If you want to keep your health covered-and your bank account in check-it helps to learn about your insurance. What's covered? What should you do your claim is denied? Knowing these answers can help you take a more proactive approach to your health, AND save you money.

1/1/03--Think You Are Suffering From A Sinus Headache? Think Again
Many thyroid patients battling frequent sinus infections, but is it really sinus? Headaches may not be sinus at all, but something else entirely, and only you and your doctor can find out.

1/1/03--Tips for Making Your New Years Resolution Work!
Many of us make New Year's resolutions few; of us keep them. David Junno talks about the most important elements of a good resolution and how we can make our goals stick this year!

1/1/03--Planning to Lose Weight in the New Year? Experts Say, "Think Sleep."
For the millions of Americans who resolve to lose weight in the New Year, success may hinge on how much they sleep. Studies suggest that sleep loss may increase hunger and affect the body's metabolism, which may make it more difficult to maintain or lose weight.

1/1/03--Synergy Fitness Tip - How to Keep the Resolution
Resolutions for the New Year frequently include commitments for regular exercise. Many gyms will be packed during the first week of January. Crowds begin decreasing within a few weeks. Don't be a dropout! Here's a simple tip that could double your workouts in 2003.

1/1/03--Can A Supplement Help Your Weight Loss and Fitness Energy?
If you're one of those people who avoid exercise because of the pain and exhaustion that often comes afterward -- and especially when you don't workout regularly -- adding a safe and effective supplement may make it easier for you to work exercise your schedule.

1/1/03--Are You Taking Action Each Day?
Are you taking a step forward, each and every day, going after what you want to achieve or are you simply sitting back waiting for things to come to you? Certified Personal Trainer Shawn C. LeBrun asks if you can imagine how much closer to your goals you would be if you simply resolved to do ONE thing each and every day that would bring you closer to that goal...

12/26/02-- Keep Your Thyroid Resolutions in 2003
Is this the year you'l finally lose weight, stop smoking, feel better, have a baby? Big changes start with small steps, and we have all the information and tools you need to make 2003 terrific for your health!

12/16/02-- A Letter To My Pal Santa
In Jody LaFerriere's hilarious "Letter to Santa," she writes to the Big Man himself, wondering about Santa's weight and one-day-a-year job, asks if he's ever had his thyroid levels checked. "Are you hiding a goiter under your beard?" Don't miss this hilarious holiday special letter!!!

12/16/02 -- 8 Holiday Hints That'll Let You Indulge Without The Bulge!
Eight tips that will help you lose weight -- or at least not gain -- during the holidays!

12/16/02 -- 5 Tips to Reduce Holiday Depression
Five simple yet effective things you can start doing today to help avoid holiday depression.

12/16/02 -- Tips to Stay Fit Through the Holidays!
Even though the holidays are a time some of us pack on the pounds, a little planning can help you stay fit and avoid weight gain this year.

12/10/02-- Can Thyroid Disease Be Prevented?
Dr. David Cooper says that it's time that a preventive approach be applied to thyroid disease. How can you prevent thyroid disease? There are more ways than you think. Find out now.

12/10/02-- The Whickham Survey Updated – What You Need to Know
In 1975, a study called the Whickham Survey looked at the prevalence of thyroid problems. Twenty years later, extensive followup was done, and the results are very interesting, adding to the argument that thyroid antibodies, and TSH levels above 2 are evidence of thyroid disease in progress. Find out more about this fascinating research.

12/10/02--NBC's Dr. Reichman STILL Doesn't Get It!
Last week, I reported on an inaccurate television segment and accompanying web article on thyroid disease by NBC Weekend Today Show medical correspondent Judith Reichman, MD. I had written to the producers of NBC Today to register my concerns, and many site readers also contacted the Weekend Today to indicate their concerns with the inaccuracies. I received a quick email back from the producer saying only that NBC was interested in making sure that the information they presented was accurate. But only a few changes have been made to the web page, and it looks like Dr. Reichman's article is still disseminating inaccuracies. Find out more.

12/3/02 -- Understanding Thyroid Lab Tests
Michelle was frustrated. She always had trouble keeping a normal weight...[she] became so fatigued...I said, “I think your thyroid condition is under-treated.” “How could that be? My other doctors said my thyroid tests were normal!” “Unfortunately...the ‘TSH’ blood test has its limitations. It isn’t accurate for everyone...” Read Dr. Ken Woliner's facinating account of thyroid testing.

12/3/02 -- Inside Mary Shomon's Medicine Cabinet
People are always writing to me to ask "what drugs and supplements do YOU take?" While what works best for me may not work best for you, take a look inside my medicine cabinet to find out what I'm taking these days.

12/3/02-- Seven Reasons To Start Your Diet During The Holidays!
Cookies, cakes, stuffing, eggnog, treats galore. The holiday diet disaster is on. But it doesn't have to be a disaster. David Junno offers seven compelling reasons why you should START a diet during the holidays.

12/1/02 -- Today Show Doctor's Thyroid Mixups: Dr. Judith Reichman May Need a Thyroid Refresher Course
The Today Show's doctor Judith Reichman has her thyroid facts all mixed up, and we've clarified the various misinformation she presented in her TV segment and on the NBC website.

11/19/02 -- Thymic Protein: A Supplement to Fight Viruses and Antibodies
A supplement derived from the thymus may be able to help you fight viruses and lower antibodies. Find out more about thymic protein.

11/12/02 -- Clinical Chemists Issue Revised Thyroid Testing Guidelines
The National Academy of Clinical Biochemistry has issued new Laboratory Medicine Practice Guidelines for thyroid testing, and the dramatically changed new guidelines will be tremendous interest to any thyroid patient with a TSH of 2.5 or more -- as well as their practitioners! A MUST-READ!

11/12/02 -- A Five-Star Caregiver
As Ric Blake copes with symptoms of his metastatic thyroid cancer, his wife Diane has been named Caregiver of the Year by the New England Coalition for Cancer Survivorship. Follow the latest chapter in the story of this courageous and inspiring couple.

11/05/02 --Natural Solutions for Thyroid Patients
Whether it's stress, depression, autoimmune conditions, weight gain, or chronic fatigue, joint and muscle aches, or full-fledged fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, there are natural ways for thyroid patients to cope with and live well with these conditions. These books can help.

11/05/02 -- Do You Have Autoimmune Disease Super-Symptoms?
Most thyroid patients have autoimmune disease -- Hashimoto's disease and Graves' disease -- even if your doctor hasn't diagnosed it. And if you have one of these two common conditions, did you know that you may also have symptoms and risks of other conditions? There are some very specific symptoms found in almost all autoimmune conditions. Do you have any of these"super-symptoms?"

11/05/02 -- More Reason for Probiotics
Are you getting enough "good bacteria?" Probiotics -- or friendly, good bacteria -- may be a key to helping your immune system, and even part of an effective thyroid and/or autoimmune disease treatment. Find out more about the encouraging news on probiotics.

11/05/02 -- Thyroid Arterial Embolization Is Option For Graves' Disease
Chinese researchers are using an innovative new treatment for Graves' disease that is safe, effective, minimally invasive, and an alternative to radioactive iodine and surgery. Find out more about thyroid arterial embolization now.

11/05/02 -- Chronic Fatigue, Fibromyalgia and Thyroid Solutions
Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum, bestselling author of "From Fatigued to Fantastic," and an expert in chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia, will be giving his workshop in Boulder, Colorado December 7 and 8th, joined by Drs John & Gina Lowe, experts in thyroid problems in fibromyalgia. This is an excellent workshop for both patients and practitioners, and can truly change the state of your health.

11/04/02 -- Your Thyroid Up in Smoke, Cigarette Smoking's Little Known Links to Thyroid Disease
A look at the dramatic but little-known connections between cigarette smoking and the development or worsening of various thyroid conditions, including hypothyroidism, Graves' disease, and thyroid eye disease.

10/27/02 -- Abdominal Swelling and Hypothyroidism
According to research reported on in the British Medical Journal, thyroid function should be checked in all patients with a condition called ascites (pronounced ah-sih-tez) -- an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the abdomen. Ascites, which occurs in as many as 4% of patients, can cause rapid weight gain, abdominal discomfort and distention, shortness of breath and swollen ankles. It can even cause hypothyroidism to be mistakenly diagnosed as stomach cancer. Find out more now.

10/27/02 -- What Pill Do I Take? How To Keep Track Of Your Medications
There's the pill you take in the morning before breakfast, and the prescription drug that has to be taken with your morning meal. Lunch brings another round of pills and supplements, and your bedtime ritual means downing additional pills. Sound familiar? Keeping track of which pills to take and when doesn't have to be exhausting and confusing...

10/27/02 -- How Healthy Is Your Medicine Cabinet?
Two of three of you reading this have expired or nearly empty medications in your medicine cabinet. Isn't it about time for a "check up" of your medicine cabinet?

10/27/02 --All About Supplements
Vitamins, minerals, herbs, teas -- what are the differences? You don't have to feel overwhelmed by the many dietary supplement products available. Find out more in these useful tips.

10/27/02 -- Iodine Deficiency, Dairy Intake, and Thyroid Disease Risk
Even in an area of mild iodine deficiency, the less iodine intake -- as well as reduced milk and milk product intake -- the greater the size of the thyroid, and therefore the risk of thyroid disease.

10/12/02 -- Should Thyroid Patients Get a Flu Shot?
Aches, pains, fever, fatigue...do you really NEED to get the flu this year? Find out whether you should get a flu shot this year, and conventional and alternative ways you can prevent and treat the flu during this 2002-2003 flu season.

10/12/02 -- Do You Need B-12?
Tired? Hair falling out? You could have a B-12 deficiency. More people than ever predicted -- including younger people -- are deficient in this important nutrient. Or, as a thyroid patient, you face a higher risk of the more serious autoimmune B-12 deficiency condition seen more frequently in thyroid patients -- pernicious anemia. Find out more.

10/06/02 -- Mary Shomon's Radio Appearances -- October 2002
You can hear About.com's Thyroid Guide Mary Shomon appearing on a variety of radio programs during October of 2002, talking about autoimmune diseases -- including thyroid conditions such as Hashimoto's disease and Graves' disease -- and her new book, Living Well With Autoimmune Disease: What Your Doctor Doesn't Tell You...That You Need to Know, which is being published by HarperCollins on October 8th.

10/06/02 -- Radiation Alone Does Not Appear to Improve Function in Thyroid Eye Disease
Researchers have found that radiation to the eye areas -- "orbital radiotherapy" -- is not effective as a solo treatment for thyroid eye disease and double vision.

10/06/02 -- Benign Thyroid Nodules Grow Slowly If At All
Research has shown that only 25% of benign thyroid nodules show signs of growing at all, and even then, five years is typically required for nodule growth to even be detectable by sensitive ultrasound tests. Source: May 2002 annual meeting of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE)

10/06/02 -- Selenium Supplementation in Patients with Autoimmune Thyroiditis Decreases Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies Concentrations
German researchers have found that selenium supplementation can reduce thyroid antibody levels significantly, and even in some cases return them to normal, concluding that selenium may reduce inflammation in patients with autoimmune thyroiditis.

10/05/02 -- Deciphering Your Prescription
Do you ever wondered what the nearly illegible "b.i.d." and "p.o.," "p.r.n." and the other mysterious abbreviations on your prescription actually mean? They are mainly abbreviations for Latin terms that are still used when writing prescriptions. Here they all are, deciphered for you!

10/02/02 -- Soy and the Thyroid -- Key Information
The relationship between soy and the thyroid is complicated. But there's no question -- soy can impact your thyroid, and some experts believe that overconsumption of soy can damage the thyroid and trigger autoimmune disease. Find out more!

10/02/02 -- Nourishing Traditions: A Revolutionary Book About Diet
From Sally Fallon and Mary Enig, Ph.D. of the innovative Weston A. Price Foundation, this cookbook and reference book is an excellent starting place for understanding whole foods, and the trend away from low-fat, low-nutrient diets, to healthful diets that incorporate good fats and animal proteins.

10/02/02 -- Flush Fat, Tropical Style!
Bestselling author Ann Louise Gittelman has not only penned the year's most popular diet book, "The Fat Flush Plan," but she's planning a cruise for her readers to learn more about the approach and how to practice it.

10/02/02 -- Update on Dr. David Derry
An innovative and popular thyroid and adrenal expert, Canadian practitioner Dr. David Derry is facing the possible end of his medical practice due to Canada's biased medical review system.

9/17/02 -- 10 Thyroid Mistakes Your Doctor May Be Making
Find out if your practitioner is making one of these key mistakes that can prevent you from achieving optimal health.

9/16/02 -- Innovative Books for Thyroid Patients from your Thyroid Disease Guide
What's new that may be of interest to thyroid patients? Here, I'm taking a look at a few new and innovative publications that you may want to put you on your reading list.

9/16/02 -- Can Basal Body Temperatures Diagnose Thyroid Disease?
Are basal body temperatures a valid and valuable way to diagnose a thyroid condition? Can body temperature be used instead of thyroid testing to make a diagnosis? Drs. Richard and Karilee Shames offer their suggestions and advice about this important question.

9/12/02 -- When Did 'Added Sugar' Become a Vital Nutrient?
Dr. Robert Atkins, author of The Atkins Diet, strikes back on the Institute of Medicine's diet guidelines, and takes to task their recommendations about what constitutes a healthy diet.

9/7/02 -- Report Offers New Eating and Exercise Targets To Reduce Chronic Disease Risk, Food Pyramid Totally Revamped
A new one-hour-a-day-total exercise goal, along with slightly more realistic balances of carbohydrates, fats and protein are being recommended by the Institute of Medicine 's Food and Nutrition Board for optimal health and weight.

9/7/02 -- Ric Blake: Mustering His Energy to Fight the System
While there's no lack of drugs and radiation, the hard part for thyroid cancer patient Ric Blake is finding someone who can offer coordination and a more personalized approach to care. Ric's story continues in this installment of the Eagle-Tribune profile of the courageous and inspiring founder of the Thyroid Cancer Survivors' Association (ThyCa).

9/7/02 -- Kristin's Story: One Year Later
More than a year after diagnosis, Kristin is waking up full of energy, ready to take on the planet, and she's even lost those stubborn last 15 pounds. Read the conclusion to Kristin's humorous, compelling and very personal five-part story about her diagnosis and treatment for hypothyroidism.

8/28/02 -- Are You Insulin Resistant?
Are you among the one in three Americans who are insulin resistant, and therefore at a dramatically increased risk for type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease and stroke? The endocrinology community is looking carefully at the symptoms and risks for Insulin Resistance Syndrome. With thyroid patients at greater risk, this is information you need to know.

8/28/02 -- Doctors Answer Your Thyroid Questions
What should you do if you can't get through to your doctor? Are thyroid cysts normal? What can you do if your doctor's office won't give you your thyroid test results? What if your doctor won't provide a thyroid test? What is the optimal combination of Synthroid and Cytomel? Can your doctor fire you? What type of tests should you have to see if you have hypothyroidism, and do you need to see a special doctor? What causes an underactive thyroid? Women’s health expert and patient rights advocate Marie Savard, MD, and thyroid experts Drs. Richard and Karilee Shames, offer their advice and ideas on these questions and more.

8/28/02 -- Finger-Stick Test for Celiac Disease
A finger-stick test is now available for celiac disease, the gluten intolerance condition that can trigger certain autoimmune diseases, including thyroid conditions.

8/28/02 -- Who's Your Top Doc?
Help the British Medical Journal choose the doctor - past or present, real or fictional - who best embodies your idea of a good doctor.

8/28/02 -- Thyroid Support Groups
The list is newly updated with more support groups around the country. Find out if there's a group near you.

8/22/02 -- Free Synthroid?
Do you know about pharmaceutical company's patient assistance programs? Synthroid is just one of the thyroid drugs covered by these programs, which help low-income, uninsured, underinsured, seniors and the unemployed. Find out more about the companies and drugs that participate in these programs, and how you may be eligible.

8/22/02 -- Making Sense of Your Health Plan
Does your health care plan provide the coverage you need? Which plan is best suited to meet the health needs of your family? How can you take advantage of all the services your health plan has to offer? A new consumer-friendly guide, the Health Plan Guide for Women, helps women answer these questions and many more. Find out how to get a free copy.

8/17/02-- Weight Loss Breakthroughs -- Four New Studies Expand Knowledge Of Hormones, Appetite Control And Body Weight
Four studies published this month in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism (JCEM) and Endocrinology, highlight the relationship between hormones, food intake, genes and weight regulation. All four studies—two basic research and two clinical research—will help scientists and physicians move closer to understanding the causes and possible treatments for obesity, which affects nearly 20 percent of adults in the United States.

8/17/02 -- Forest Recalls Levothroid Levothyroxine Thyroid Drug
Forest has recalled various batches of the levothyroxine drug Levothroid, due to potency problems. Find it if your thyroid medicine is affected.

8/3/02 -- The 24-Hour Turnaround
Exercise physiologist and trainer Jay Williams, Ph.D. has put together a book that is actually 8 books in one. 24 Hour Turnaround provides a variety of life changes that you can make today, the kind of changes that can even have an impact on your health within 24 hours.

8/3/02 --20 Secrets of Successful Thyroid Patients
What things do thyroid patients who feel well have in common? Over five years I've heard from thousands of thyroid patients, and discovered that people who feel the best tend to do some of the same things. Find out their secrets now!

8/3/02 -- Research Finds that Vitamins and Supplements CAN Improve Health
Consistent use of multivitamins and other key supplements can promote good health and help prevent disease, according to a new report released from the Council for Responsible Nutrition. The report found that ongoing use of multivitamins and other supplements (like calcium or folic acid) can have a demonstrable impact on health.

8/2/02 -- The Road to Resilience: Tips for Rebounding from Adversity
Some people can face serious illness, death of loved ones, terrorist attacks or other adversity and bounce back from such traumatic experiences. What enables people to deal with these types of hardships? Resilience. Find out more about resilience, and how to get a free brochure that can help you learn about this valuable coping skill.

8/2/02 -- Top Books By Ann Louise Gittelman, including Fat Flush Plan
Ann Louise Gittleman, M.S., C.N.S., is a leading nutritionist and the former nutrition director at the renowned Pritikin Longevity Center. She has published nearly twenty books, including the bestselling Beyond Pritikin, and the current mega-bestseller, the Fat Flush Plan. Ann Louise Gittelman has devoted her career toward helping us understand the connections between nutrition and health, and effective weight loss for life -- versus gimmicky diets. She is truly a pioneer when it comes to her understanding of healthy eating for both weight control and disease prevention, and in my opinion, her books are an asset to any empowered health consumer's library.

8/2/02 -- Broda Barnes Foundation Offers Innovative Endocrine Conference 9/02
The Broda Barnes Research Foundation has scheduled an innovative program for their September 20-22, 2002 Fall Endocrinology Conference. For both practitioners and patients, the conference focuses on cutting-edge research and medical treatments for thyroid and endocrine dysfunctions. Popular speakers will also address issues of interest to thyroid practitioners and patients, including, poor conversion of T4 to T3, Hashimoto’s and Graves Disease and more.

8/2/02 -- Chernobyl.info Site Launched
The new www.chernobyl.info site was just launched to serve as an international communications platform on the longterm consequences of the Chernobyl-disaster. Find out about this new resource, which is providing updated information on the persisting after-effects of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster -- which have included high rates of thyroid cancer and thyroid disease.

8/1/02 --Drs. Shames Launch Presentations in Amarillo 8/17
Drs. Richard and Karilee Shames, authors of Thyroid Power, will be hosting a workshop titled "Natural Cures for Common Diseases" on Saturday August 17, 2002 in the Amarillo, Texas area, joined by popular practitioner Roby Mitchell, MD, Author of Understanding Hormone Replacement Therapy. Find out more about this and other upcoming workshops.

8/1/02 -- Free Well Heart Supplements
Steven Langer, MD, author of a classic thyroid book Solved: The Riddle of Illness -- is such a believer in the antioxidant supplement resveratrol, a derivative of grapes (and the ingredient that gives grapes, grape juice and red wine some of their reported health benefits) that he is making it available to people for free.

7/25/02 -- Survey Reveals Patient Concerns about Medication-Related Issues
A vast majority of Americans are concerned about medication-related issues, such as drug interactions and medication errors, and three-fourths believe that speaking to a pharmacist would help address key health concerns. Find out more about an important survey into patients' health concerns, and what pharmcists are doing about it.

7/25/02 -- Mainstream Docs Say All Adults Should Take Vitamins
In a landmark article the Journal of The American Medical Association has announced that all adults should take vitamin supplements to help prevent chronic diseases. This represents a radical departure from the conventional perspective that always maintained that adults get sufficient nutrition from food and that vitamins were unnecessary. What changed the doc's minds? Find out now.

7/25/02 -- Research Documents Benefits of Vitamins and Supplements
Consistent use of multivitamins and other key supplements can promote good health and help prevent disease, according to a new report released from the Council for Responsible Nutrition. The report found that ongoing use of multivitamins and other supplements (like calcium or folic acid) can have a demonstrable impact on health.

7/25/02 -- Low-Fat, High-Carb Diets a Big Fat Lie? Not So, Says Pritikin Docs
The Pritikin experts say that while the article is is correct in saying that the typical American diet is a disaster, there are different types of carbs, and the author seemingly pronounces all high-carb diets the same, and then makes the leap to high-fat diets as the answer. This ignores the alternative: a low-fat diet that is rich, not in sugary, refined carbs, but in carbs like fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains. Who's right?

7/25/02 -- Body Clock Breakthroughs Can Benefit Your Health
Tapping into your body's secret rhythms may help you slim down, rev up and feel better than ever. There's a predictable, 24-hour cycle to virtually every single bodily function, and if you figure out your own clock, you can better time things to optimize health and weight loss, among other functions.

7/25/02 -- Cholesterol Update: Are You At Risk?
You can have routine cholesterol tests that say you are "normal," and still suffer a heart attack the next. Most popular cholesterol tests identify less than half of all patients who are at risk for heart disease. But a new test may be able to identify more people at risk.

7/25/02 -- The Road to Resilience: Tips for Rebounding from Adversity
Some people can face serious illness, death of loved ones, terrorist attacks or other adversity and bounce back from such traumatic experiences. What enables people to deal with these types of hardships? Resilience. Find out more about resilience, and a free brochure that can help you learn about this valuable coping skill.

7/24/02 --Synthroid Receives FDA Approval
Almost two years after the FDA's initial deadline, and five years after the initial request to submit new drug applications, Synthroid has finally received approval from the FDA.

7/24/02 -- The "Estrogen" and HRT Controversy: Different Sides of the Discussion Presented
The news may make it sound as if the medical world is in agreement in condemning hormone replacement therapy, but the truth is that the nation's leading women's hormone experts are definitely not all of one mind. Find out what some of the top hormone docs and alternative experts have to say about the study, HRT, soy for menopause symptoms, soy for thyroid patients, and safer natural options.

7/16/02 -- Thyroid Cancer Conference Set for Oct. 11-13 in LA
The Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ 5th International Conference will take place October 11-13, 2002, in Los Angeles, California. Sponsored by the national nonprofit organization ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc., this event offers more than 50 sessions conducted by physicians, mental health professionals and other experts for people newly diagnosed with thyroid cancer, survivors of many years, and their family members.

7/16/02 -- The Secret to Saving Money on Your Prescriptions
Did you know that there's one prescription drug that can cost $105 a month for the brand name, but the generic version, which works just as well, is $19.08 a month? One insurance company has spilled the beans about the cost differences between popular brand names and generics, and how you can potenially save hundreds each month.

7/15/02 -- Doctors Answer Your Questions
Are synthetics really more stable than natural thyroid drugs? Are saliva and urine tests for thyroid disease accurate? What sorts of things can be done for a flagging sex drive? Why do thyroid patients lose hair, and what can you do about it? Drs. Richard & Karilee Shames answer some of your most important questions.

7/15/02 -- Are You a "Poor T4 Converter?"
David Brownstein, MD's new book can help you figure it out. In Overcoming Thyroid Disease, Brownstein outlines some fascinating thyroid information, including the diuretic and weight loss impact of Armour Thyroid, T2 and T1 and what they actually may do, the concept of "Poor T4 Converters" and how you become that way, and why thyroid hormone resistance is like insulin resistance.

7/15/02 -- Books by David Brownstein, MD
David Brownstein, MD is one of the nation's leading holistic thyroid practitioners, and presents a variety of unique perspectives in his books on thyroid disease, hormones and arthritis.

7/15/02 --"My Patients Don't Get Alzheimer's Disease," Dommisse Tells Newsweek
Dr. John Dommisse says that "the best solutions to all the large chronic health problems in the modern world are far easier found in the trenches of natural, nutritional and metabolic medicine than in the research done at the behest of the pharmaceutical industry." Read more in the letter to Newsweek.

7/12/02 -- Almost 3 Million Levoxyl Tablets Recalled
In July 2002, it was announced that almost 3 million Levoxyl tablets in 50, 75, 88 and 100 microgram dosage sizes have been recalled, following a June 2002 recall. Find out about the recalled Levoxyl and whether you are at risk.

7/11/02 --New Cause of Congenital Hypothyroidism Discovered
Dutch researchers reporting in the New England Journal of Medicine have found a new cause of both permanent and transient congenital hypothyroidism. Of particular interest, the findings may explain why some people become hypothyroid during periods later in life when thyroid hormone needs increase --- such as during pregnancy. Find out more now.

7/09/02 --NIH Stops Trial of Estrogen/Progestin Due to Breast Cancer Risk
The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has stopped early a major clinical trial of the risks and benefits of combined estrogen and progestin in healthy menopausal women due to an increased risk of invasive breast cancer. The large multi-center trial, a component of the Women's Health Initiative (WHI), also found increases in coronary heart disease, stroke, and pulmonary embolism (stroke) in study participants.

7/09/02 --Normal TSH and Symptoms: Should You Be Treated?
No, says Dr. A.P. Weetman, in the July 2002 issue of Clinical Endocrinology. But Weetman's "Commentary" relies on less than persuasive research, and rests on an outdated TSH reference range, and a shifting definition of what TSH level is "normal." Find out more about Weetman's controversial thoughts.

7/09/02 --Thyroid Therapy on Trial in Canada
The future of thyroid treatment for Canada's thyroid patients is on trial. Dr. David Derry, the innovative and popular practitioner whose medical license and ability to prescribe thyroid medicines was taken away by the B.C. College of Physicians & Surgeons, will now have his day, as the Canadian Supreme Court has ordered the College to hold a full investigation into the effectiveness and safety of Dr. Derry's thyroid treatment practices.

7/05/02 -- Do You Have a Questionable Doctor? Find Out Now!
Public Citizen's new online Questionable Doctors directory lets you find out what your doctor may not want you to know!

7/05/02 -- Cindy Crawford Launches Cancer Caregivers Program
Model Cindy Crawford, who lose her brother to cancer, is also a dedicated cancer advocate who is launching a new national program to provide education and support program for cancer caregivers.

6/28/02 -- Top Books on Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia
Many thyroid patients also suffer from symptoms of chronic fatigue immune dsyfunction syndrome -- CFIDS or CFS -- and fibromyalgia. If you have fatigue, sleep disturbances, and pain in your trigger point areas, these are the books to investigate.

6/28/02 -- Potassium Iodide Pills Bought Online Pass Quality Tests
The potassium iodide pills being sold on the internet passed ConsumerLab.com's quality testing, and two of the products have also been approved by the FDA.

6/28/02 -- British Thyroid Doc Does About Face on T3 Issue
Anthony Toft has changed his position and now says the addition of T3 to T4-only treatment may in fact be the superior therapy for hypothyroidism.

6/28/02 -- Doerge Revisits Soy/Thyroid Connection
In new research findings, the nation's leading soy expert, Dr. Daniel Doerge, says that the possibility that widely consumed soy products may be dangerous to health via either or both estrogenic and goitrogenic activity is of concern and should be researched.

6/28/02 -- Thyroid Antibodies are Marker for Post-Partum Depression
European researchers have found that the presence of thyroid peroxidase antibodies makes a pregnant woman nearly three times more likely to develop post-partum depression.

6/20/02 -- Levoxyl Recalls and Stability Questions
If you take Levoxyl in 50 or 100 mcg size pills, your pills may come from a recently recalled batch of Levoxyl. Meanwhile, as stock prices and sales of Levoxyl are on the rise, patients continue to voice concerns about stability of the product, and seek workaround solutions.

6/20/02 -- Canadian Thyroid Doc David Derry's Medical License Suspended
On June 11, 2002, Dr. David Derry, a popular physician well-known for his success with thyroid patients, had his license suspended as part of Canada's medical establishment crackdown on popular and effective holistic physicians. Find out about the case, and the upcoming June 24/25 Supreme Court appeal of the decision.

6/20/02 -- Find Doctors Who Prescribe Armour or Thyrolar
Thanks to a new database created by Forest Pharmaceuticals, you can find doctors who prescribe Armour or Thyrolar.

6/20/02 -- More States Distribute Thyroid-Protecting Pills
More states and areas are moving to stockpile or distribute stores of potassium iodide, the pills that can protect the thyroid against damage from certain types of radioactivity in the event of a nuclear accident or terrorist attack on nuclear facilities.

6/20/02 -- Court Says Hanford Radioactivity Victims Can Sue
In a reversal of a lower court opinion, more than 5,000 "downwinder" residents of WA, OR, and ID -- originally excluded from a lawsuit -- are now able to sue -- claiming that their illnesses are due to exposure to Cold War radioactive releases from the Hanford nuclear plant.

6/20/02 --Aberdeen, MD Well Closed After Thyroid-Damaging Chemical Found
Aberdeen, MD has closed one of its drinking water wells after the chemical perchlorate -- which can damage the thyroid -- was found.

6/14/02 -- The Dirty Bomb Scare: Do You Need Potassium Iodide?
After the June 10, 2002 announcement of the arrest of alleged al-Qaeda member and potential "dirty bomber" Jose Padilla, interest in potassium iodide, the pill that can protect the thyroid in the event of a nuclear accident, has skyrocketed. The government just bought more than a quarter million of these thyroid-protective pills for Washington, and pills are being stockpiled and distributed north of New York City. Should you buy your own supply?

6/14/02 -- Common Questions About Thyroid Disease and Weight Loss
Thyroid patients have so many questions about diet and weight issues. Is everyone who is hypothyroid also overweight? Will treatment for hyperthyroidism/Graves' autoimatically mean weight gain? How much weight does a typical patient gain? Do you lose the weight when you get on the right thyroid drug and dosage? Find out more now.

6/14/02 -- Top Five Books for Thyroid Patients
If you had only $100 to spend, and could buy just a few books about thyroid disease to keep close at hand, what would they be? Here are the five most recommended books for thyroid patients. Buying all five could cost less than even one visit to an endocrinologist, but reading them could be worth your better health for years to come!

6/14/02 -- Top Online Sources of Potassium Iodide
If you are concerned about exposure after a nuclear accident or attack, you may want to have your own pesonal stockpile of potassium iodide. Where can you get this thyroid-protective drug online?

6/11/02 -- Endometriosis: Common, Overlooked and Linked to Thyroid
Endometriosis is frequently overlooked, and now researchers have found a strong link to autoimmunity and thyroid disease. If you're a thyroid patient with painful periods, infertility, pelvic pain, or abdominal tenderness and bloating, find out whether you may be suffering from this common condition.

6/5/02 -- New York Gets Thyroid-Protecting Pills
With continued fears that nuclear power plants could be the focus on terrorist attacks, Westchester County officials have announced that they will be providing thyroid-protective potassium iodide to residents who live near the Indian Point plant.

6/5/02 -- Get Medicines For Less
Drug discount cards can help many people get the medications they need without having an unhealthy effect on their budgets. It helps, however, to know what to ask before signing up for a card. Find out more about how you can save money on the drugs you buy.

6/4/02 -- Top Online Videos About Thyroid Disease
With information on hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid hormone drugs, blood tests, Olympian Gail Devers and more, these videos from the website Healthology, and short news pieces from Canadian Broadcasting -- you'll need Realplayer to view them all -- are decent sources of conventional thyroid information.

6/4/02 -- Patients E-mail -- But They Still Keep Calling
Electronic mail has been promoted as a way to improve physician-patient communication. A new study has found that it can, but it doesn't mean that it will save time for doctors, or patients. Find out more about whether or not emailing your doctor is for you.

6/1/02 -- Latest Thyroid and Health Information
Birth defects with methimazole, standard treatments for thyroid nodules, ginseng berries for weight loss, atrial fibrillation in subclinical hyperthyroidism, are just a few of the key stories affecting thyroid patients in June, 2002.

6/1/02 -- Thyroidectomy for Graves' Disease
According to the Australia New Zealand Journal of Surgery, total thyroidectomy is now replacing partial thyroidectomy as the standard treatment for Graves' disease in that area.

6/1/02 -- Top 5 Alternative Medicine Approaches
More and more patients are turning to alternative, complementary and holistic approaches for both diagnosis and treatment of various thyroid conditions. These are some of the best articles reviewing alternative approaches to thyroid disease, including practitioner recommendations that focus on nutrition, herbs, supplements, and other alternative approaches.

5/29/02 -- Are You Overweight?
If you are facing the effects of "creeping" weight gain, when do you need to really get serious about battling those extra pounds? How do you when those extra pounds are a problem that you need to deal with? The NIH has established detailed new guidelines to help you decide.

5/29/02 -- Get Answers Re: Thyroid Nodules and Goiters
If you have thyroid nodules, or an enlarged thyroid (known as a goiter), here are the resources you need to choose optimal diagnosis and treatment methods.

5/29/02 -- Fats That Heal: Fats That Kill
Dr. Udo Erasmus, founder of the nutritional oil ""Udo's Oil," and an expert on the use of power of essential fatty acids has some advice for thyroid patients regarding the effects of essential fatty acids on thyroid hormone receptors, inflammation, weight loss, and what he views as the optimal diet for thyroid patients. Find out more.

5/29/02 -- Books About Essential Fatty Acids
Essential fatty acids and "good" fats can have an important role in dealing with health conditions, maintaining good health, losing weight, and more. Take a look at the top books about essential fatty acids and their role in health.

5/29/02 -- Are You at Risk for Osteoporosis?
Periods of hyperthyroidism definitely can contribute to loss of bone density, and the jury is still out on whether taking thyroid hormone drugs can also increase your risk for osteoporosis. But beyond thyroid disease, many of us still face a risk of this potentially debilitating condition. Find out about your risks, and some simple steps to protect your bones.

5/24/02 -- Hormones May Be Key to Diet Failure
Thyroid patients no better than anyone how hard it is to lose weight and keep it off. Now researchers have found that hormone in the stomach may may be reason dieters find it almost impossible to keep off the weight they've lost. Find out more about this important story.

5/24/02 -- A Rapid Cure for Toxic Multinodular Goiter?
Researchers have found what they call a rapid "cure" for the potentially dangerous condition known as toxic multinodular goiter, which can sometimes cause thyrotoxicosis. Find out about this potentially promising treatment, and how quickly it can work.

5/24/02 --Radiotherapy Alone Does Not Appear to Improve Function in Thyroid Eye Disease
Researchers report that radiotherapy to the eyes does not appear to be an effective treatment to improve function and reduce double vision in thyroid eye disease patients.

5/24/02 -- Benign Thyroid Nodules Rarely Grow
Researchers have found that benign thyroid nodules rarely grow, and annual ultrasounds are not necessary.

5/24/02 -- Hypothyroidism Common After Treatment For Head And Neck Cancers
Researchers have found that hypothyroidism is more common than reported after treatment for head and neck cancers.

5/24/02 -- Careless Chilling and Grilling: Bacteria's Best Friend
Foodborne bacteria are a major souce of illness, and can contribute to or even trigger autoimmune diseases and some thyroid condition. This holiday weekend, make sure you grill safely.

5/24/02 --How Hard Is It To Eat Healthy During Picnic Party Time?
It's Memorial Day weekend, and you may be set to go to you first picnic or party of the season. How to you make sure that you buy, prepare and eat healthy during picnic party time? Here are some guidelines, including a handy shopping list.

5/16/02 -- Experts Offer Solutions for Fatigue and Exhaustion
Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? Then you may want to check out some of my favorite books that talk about fatigue and exhaustion, and how to effectively combat them. Get the answers you need to revive your flagging energy!!

5/16/02 -- Three Simple Changes That Can Improve Your Health
You could spend a lifetime reading about how certain foods may be beneficial to health. Put down the books and magazines and take action now. Here are three simple changes that can make a big difference.

5/16/02 -- Thyroid-Related Complaints and How to Solve Them
What are the things that most bother thyroid patients? Whether it's slow metabolism, weight gain, or simply the challenge of finding a good doctor, here are the solutions to some of your most common challenges.

5/16/02 -- Online Thyroid-Related Books
From the Merck Manual, to a complete endocrinology textbook online, here are the best of the free online books that cover thyroid disease and endocrinology.

5/16/02 -- Renowned NIH Thyroid Expert to Speak 5/18 in MD
May 18th from 10-12 in Germantown, MD, renowned thyroid expert Nicholas Sarlis, M.D., a clinical researcher with NIH, will be speaking about thyroid disease to the Maryland Thyroid Group, a support group of patients in the Maryland/DC/VA area.

5/08/02 --Dr. Siegel's Thyroid Cookies? For Real?
Dr. Sanford Siegel was featured the recent "Woman's World" "Thyroid Cure" article, along with his supposed recipe for "thyroid-boosting diet cookies." Before you consider baking a single cookie, you need to find out the real story, and Dr. Siegel's definitive opinions on whether they can actually help you lose weight!

5/08/02 -- Video-assisted Thyroid Removal?
Are you a candidate for video-assisted Thyroid Removal, which typically leaves a scar of less than one inch, even for complete removal of the thyroid? Explore this cutting-edge technique.

5/08/02 -- Thyroid and Your Blood Pressure
Thyroid hormone balance has a critical role in maintaining blood pressure, but what few people know is that chronic hypothyroidism is a risk factor for hypertension -- HIGH blood pressure. Find out more now.

5/02/02 -- Is It Allergies or Sinusitis?
With allergies and sinus infections more common in thyroid patients, and allergy season upon us, it's important to take a look at whether you may be suffering from allergies, or a sinus infection.

5/01/02 -- Complications After Total Thyroidectomy
Researchers have determined that one particular complication is the most common in people who have had a total thyroidectomy. Find out more about the post-op complications and risk factors.

5/01/02 -- Thyroid Australia Publishes Newsletter
The latest Thyroid Australia newsletter is out, and covers the heart and the thyroid, smoking and thyroid disease, osteoporosis, and more. Download the PDF version now.

5/01/02 -- How to Get Free and Low-cost Brand Name Prescription Drugs
Find out about free distribution of over 1000 brand name drugs from almost 200 pharmaceutical manufacturers -- as well as state-sponsored free and low-cost prescription drug programs, pharmacy rebates, even tax credits -- for those who can't afford medications. A new book provides details and information.

5/01/02 -- Patient Groups, Parents and Scientists Unite To Support Therapeutic Cloning
An alliance of patient groups, concerned parents and leaders in the scientific, business, entertainment and religious communities have joined forces to release a national ad campaign and effort to oppose a bill that would ban and criminalize therapeutic cloning for use in treating disabling diseases. Find out more about this controversial issue now.

4/26/02 -- Breaking News: Estrogen, Menopause and Thyroid
With researchers discovering that the benefits of estrogen are overrated and the dangers underreported, it may be time to focu on your thyroid, says thyroid experts Richard & Karilee Shames.

4/26/02 -- Chernobyl -- 16 Year Anniversary
Today, April 26, 2002 is the 16th anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster, and various concerns -- including thyroid health problems -- still plague the Ukraine, and other areas that were downwind of the world's worst nuclear disaster. Find out more about the Chernobyl crisis 16 years later.

4/26/02 -- New England Patient Thyroid Cancer Workshop 5/18
On May 18th, the second annual regional workshop for thyroid cancer survivors will be held in Warwick, Rhode Island. The free workshop will feature noted endocrinologists, and Q&A sessions for patients & families. Find out more about this important event.

4/26/02 -- NY/Boston Thyroid Power Professional Workshops May 4 & 18th
Richard Shames, MD and Karilee Halo Shames, RN, PhD will be hosting two upcoming practitioner conferences, based on their successful "Thyroid Power" book and approach. The day-long Thyroid Power Conferences are scheduled for May 4th in Boston and May 18th in New York City.

4/26/02 -- More on the FDA's Approval of Levothyroxine Drug Levo-T
The newly approved levothyroxine drug Levo-T features a new technology that helps maintain uniformity and product consistency. Find out more about the Prosolv approach.

4/17/02 --Ric Blake: 'Today is full of possibilities'
"...Ric Blake will tell you one of two things. He is either fighting his battle with terminal illness for the long haul or he is ready to hang up his gloves..." Find out more about Ric's difficult yet inspirational experiences with thyroid cancer in the latest installment of his story.

4/17/02 --Free Thyroid Cancer Workshop in Washington DC Area April 27
The Thyroid Cancer Survivors' Association is sponsoring a free, day-long workshop for thyroid cancer survivors and their families on April 27th. Find out more details about this unique opportunity for information and support.

4/16/02 -- Yoga and Thyroid Disease
A look at the role of yoga in healing various thyroid conditions, including the various yoga poses that can help and even heal the thyroid.

4/15/02 -- New Study Estimates 8 Million American Families Experienced Serious Medical or Drug Error; Many Fail to Get Preventive Care
More than one of five Americans report that they or a family member had experienced a medical or prescription drug error, according to a new report.

4/12/02 -- Soy's Thyroid Dangers
A Look at the dangers of soy foods to the health of your thyroid, and what some of the nation's leading soy experts have to say about the connection.

4/9/02 -- In Defense of Dr. Derry
Canadian patients say that a ban preventing Dr. David Derry from prescribing thyroid medication jeopardizes their health. The Vancouver Sun's recent article is finally bringing to light the persecution that the Canadian College of Physicians and Surgeons has subjected Dr. Derry to.

4/5/02 -- Is Your Doctor Too Ashamed To Provide A New Treatment?
The British Medical Journal says it could be so. Many doctors would be too ashamed to admit to patients that they had been using an unsafe or less effective treatment, and that shame may prevent your doctor from making the best decision for you!

4/5/02 -- Maryland Thyroid Group Meeting to Focus on Your Gut and Your Thyroid
The Maryland Thyroid Group's April 20th meeting will feature Victoria Wood, who will speak about "Your Gut and Your Thyroid."

4/5/02 --Canada's Dr. David Derry to Lecture April 15
Canada's leading thyroid and alternative medicine expert will address the topic: "Breast cancer and other cancers, how to prevent them and how to survive when you have them."

4/5/02 --British Thyroid Association Issues Thyroid Cancer Guidelines
The British Thyroid Association has issued guidelines for the treatment of thyroid cancer, and they are available to the public. Find out how to obtain a copy now.

4/5/02 --Do You Have Irritable Male Syndrome?
Experts say sudden drops in testosterone can turn “confident, chest-beating Tarzans into withdrawn, grumpy wimps.” Do you or your man have “irritable male syndrome?” Find out more now.

4/5/02 --Should You Enter a Clinical Trial?
A new book, available for free, is an excellent patient reference for anyone with a serious or life-threatening illness, providing a detailed road map for patients to navigate the decision-making process regarding clinical trials.

4/2/02 --When To Get A Second Opinion
Drs. Richard and Karilee Shames, authors of Thyroid Power, share their thoughts on when you should have a second opinion for your thyroid care, and how to know when the time is right.

3/27/02 -- Guide Offers Remedies for Common Thyroid Complaints
Natural medicine expert Dr. Stephen Langer, MD and renowned health writer, James Scheer, have teamed up to solve many common complaints of thyroid patients in the new “Pocket Guide to Natural Health.” Find out solutions for allergies, carpal tunnel syndrome, fatigue, weight gain, and more.

3/27/02 -- New Levothyroxine Drug Approved
The FDA has approved another levothyroxine drug – and no, it’s not Synthroid. In fact, you may never have heard of it!

3/27/02 -- Health Insurance-Sponsored Study Shows Generic Thyroid Drugs Effective
An insurance company and managed-care study has found that Levoxyl and Levothroid are as effective as Synthroid. Find out more about this study.

3/27/02 -- Synthroid Manufacturer Faces Another Class Action Lawsuit
But not for Synthroid -- this time, the diet drug Meridia, also a Knoll Pharmaceutical/Abbott Labs drug, is under fire.

3/21/02 -- A Lab’s Normal Thyroid Levels May be Abnormal for You
Researchers have finally documented what patients have known – each person has his or her own “normal” thyroid function and being with a lab’s normal range does not necessarily mean your thyroid is normal for you.

3/21/02 -- Can Red Wine and Grape Juice Help Thyroid Cancer?
Researchers have found that the antioxidant that makes red wine healthy may have a role in fighting thyroid cancer.

3/21/02 -- Pregnancy Ups Incidence and Size of Nodules
What happens to thyroid nodules during pregnancy? A great deal, according to new research that looks at this important issue for the first time.

3/21/02 -- Thyroid Cancer in Young People
Researchers identify the most effective thyroid cancer treatments for young people, as well as the prognosis for thyroid cancer patients under 20.

3/14/02 -- Does Overt and Subclinical Hypothyroidism Complicate Pregnancy?
Researchers have looked further at the connection between both overt and subclinical hypothyroidism, and successful pregnancy, and have some surprising findings to share that are important for every woman who is considering pregnancy while hypothyroid.

3/14/02 -- Anemia: Are You At Risk?
Imagine being so exhausted that even simple tasks seem impossible. For many people with serious diseases, this exhaustion is not a result of the disease itself, but actually caused by anemia. Are you at risk?

3/14/02 -- A Simple Reminder Could Save Your Life
Scheduling and having regular cancer screening tests could significantly reduce the chance of you being diagnosed with advanced stage cancer. A free new service can help!

3/14/02 -- Help for Maryland Thyroid Patients
Saturday March 16th is the next meeting of the Maryland Thyroid Group, and will feature as guest speaker Dr. Karen Threkel, a naturopathic physician who practices in Bethesda, MD. Don't miss this important presentation!

3/08/02 -- Hashimoto's vs. Hypothyroidism: What's the Difference?
Some people use the terms "Hashimoto's" and "hypothyroidism" interchangeably, but that's not correct. Hashimoto's is a disease -- hypothyroidism is a condition, and while they're linked, there's a lot to learn about their differences.

3/08/02 -- Synthroid Lawsuit Update
Many people have been contacting me to find out the latest status on the Synthroid lawsuit. When are payments coming? Can you still get in on the suit if you haven't filed yet? Find out now.

3/08/02 -- Free Thyroid Books Online
Do you want access to an entire thyroid medical textbook online? The Merck Manual's chapter on thyroid disease? Other free resources? All in one place, a listing of the best free thyroid-related books online.

3/08/02 -- Smoking Increases Risk of Goiter
Researchers have found that in iodine deficient people, smoking greatly increases the risk of developing an enlarged thyroid, known as a goiter.

3/08/02 -- Treating Subclinical Hypothyroidism Reduces Heart Risk
If you are subclinically hypothyroid, here's another reason to seek treatment for your thyroid condition -- a reduction of as much as 31% in your risk of dying from a heart attack. Find out more now.

2/26/02 -- Levoxyl's Reformulation: What You Need to Know
The Levoxyl that was approved by the FDA in May of 2001 is quite a different formulation than the Levoxyl that was being sold prior. If you have noticed a difference in your Levoxyl, or in your health since receiving reformulated Levoxyl, there is some critically important information you need to know.

2/26/02 -- Thyroid Drug Websites
From Armour Thyroid to Westhroid, and all the drugs in-between, this directory links to the manufacturers of all the key thyroid drugs, including thyroid hormone replacement and antithyroid drugs.

2/26/02 -- Ric Blake: Determined to See Another Year
With news that his cancer has metastasized, Thyroid Cancer Survivor's Association founder and patient advocate Ric Blake continues to share his courageous story in this amazing profile. Also features a link to an online photo documentary featuring Ric.

2/26/02 -- Most Doctors Who Set Guidelines Have Industry Ties
The same doctors who establish the guidelines for your treatment frequently have financial ties to the drug companies whose products they specify or prescribe. Is the thyroid world affected as well? Find out more.

2/19/02 -- Bitter Pills: What You Need to Know About the Drugs You Take
A review of the groundbreaking book by journalist Stephen Fried -- exposing the pharmaceutical industry's flawed testing and review processes, and the FDA's insufficient oversight -- both which lead to adverse drug reactions and dangerous drugs. Features Mary Shomon's interview with Stephen Fried, including a discussion of Synthroid.

2/18/02 -- Alternative Therapies For Autoimmune Disease
Explore three innovative alternative therapies -- music therapy, reiki and iridology -- and learn more about how they can play an important role in helping deal with autoimmune disease and its symptoms.

2/17/02 -- Canada's Medical Inquisition
In Canada, innovative, dedicated doctors who are having success treating patients with conditions like thyroid disease and fibromyalgia are being "run out of town" by colleges of physicians and surgeons. Why are some of Canada's best doctors being persecuted?

2/17/02 -- Breast Cancer/Iodine/Thyroid Linkage Explored
The connection between breast cancer, iodine and thyroid disease -- as well as the cutting-edge thyroid and iodine theories of Canadian Dr. David Derry -- are presented at the new web site for the Breast Iodine Thyroid Effectiveness Society (BITES). The site also offers up-to-the-minute reporting of Dr. Derry's legal battles.

2/14/02 -- Studies Show Thyroid Disorders are Inherited and Often Hidden in Some Populations
Three new studies published in the February issue of the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism demonstrate the widespread prevalence of thyroid disease in the United States.

2/12/02 -- Research Reveals Millions of Thyroid Patients Undiagnosed
New research finds vast underdiagnosis of thyroid disease in the U.S., and undertreatment of current thyroid patients. Findings underscore urgent need for patient self-education, says advocate.

2/11/02 -- TSH, T4, and Antibodies in the U.S.
The prevalence of thyroid disease, including hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and thyroid antibodies, in various populations, is assessed in this groundbreaking research. Also, researchers finally reveal the average TSH level for someone without a thyroid condition!

2/11/02 -- Guarding our Nation’s Thyroid Health
Iodine intake, the role of screening, and the need for more effective thyroid diagnosis and treatment is discussed in this editorial by Dr. John Dunn.

2/10/02 -- Nutritional Approaches to Improving Thyroid Function
A day-long seminar will take place in Richmond, VA on 2/23, and the Washington, DC area on 2/24, conducted by Thyroid Power authors Richard and Karilee Shames, on nutritional approaches to improve autoimmune-compromised thyroid function.

2/8/02 -- Armour Thyroid Launches Website
Forest Pharmaceuticals, manufacturer of Armour Thyroid, has launched a new website featuring information about the natural desiccated thyroid drug. Included in the frequently requested equilvanency chart that converts dosages of levothyroxine to Armour.

2/8/02 -- Choosing the Right Thyroid Drug For You
Drs. Richard and Karilee Shames, authors of Thyroid Power, take a look at how to choose the right thyroid drug for you. They believe that patients on levothyroxine who don't feel well may wish to consider changing to a competing brand.

2/8/02 -- Natural Thyroid Drugs Now Available in UK/Europe
The American-made desiccated thyroid product Nature-Throid has been approved for prescription in England and throughout Europe, who now means that natural desiccated thyroid is available throughout Europe.

2/8/02 -- New Support Group in Southern California
A new Thyroid Cancer/Thyroid Disease support group is starting in the Long Beach/Orange County area of Southern CA. Their first meeting is Tuesday, March 5th. Find out more about this group and its plans.

2/8/02 -- 5th Annual Thyroid Cancer Conference Scheduled for October
The 5th annual ThyCa (Thyroid Cancer Survivors Association) Conference will be held October 11-13, 2002 in Los Angeles, California. The conference for 2003 will be held in Houston, Texas, and Chicago, Illinois in 2004. Find out more about the conferences and how you can be involved.

2/1/02 -- eDiets: Can It Help Thyroid Patients?
Is eDiets a good solution for thyroid patients? eDiets Susan Burke discusses the program in depth, and explores whether it's suited for people with thyroid and metabolic problems.

1/25/02 -- New Study Connects Mother's Thyroid Disease to Infants' Birth Defects
According to new research, women with thyroid disease are at more risk than previously thought of having infants who have birth defects, including abnormalities of the heart, kidney or brain, and other defects such as cleft lip and cleft palate.

1/25/02 -- Avoiding the "Tyranny of the Test": Your Optimal Dose of Thyroid Medicine
Thyroid expert Dr. Richard Shames says that when confronted with what may be unfair "tyranny of the TSH test," you have a number of options, any of which migh boost you to 90-100% of your prior full function. Start your exploration of these alternatives now.

1/24/02 -- Sex in the City -- Thyroid Style!
Where does actress Kim Cattrall -- who plays Samantha on "Sex in the City" -- go for information about her own case of Hashimoto's thyroiditis? You guessed it! The About Thyroid site and forums, as she tells the Los Angeles Times!

1/24/02 -- Perchlorate in Your Water -- How Little is Little Enough?
As time goes by and perchlorate remains in the water supply, what exactly is the danger point at which perchlorate in the water supply endangers the thyroid? The Las Vegas Review Journal takes a look.

1/16/02--Grave Concerns: President Bush's Health Timebomb?
President Bush's run-in with the pretzel sounds very familiar to some patients with Graves' disease and hyperthyroidism, the condition both George and Barbara bush suffered from during their tenure in the White House. Is the President following in the family's footsteps and suffering from an undiagnosed case of stress-induced Graves' disease?

1/16/02--Alcohol May Harm Thyroid Function in Mother, Fetus
According to animal research reported on in the journal Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research, alcohol consumption changes thyroid function and reduces the levels of thyroid hormone in both the mother and fetus, suggesting links between thyroid function and alcohol-related birth defects.

1/16/02--The Neck's Generation: Link Between Genetics And Thyroid Disease Needs Exploration
In honor of Thyroid Awareness Month, the American Assn. of Clinical Endocrinologists reveals findings of surveys that show, among other data, that ""more than three-fourths (76%) of the population do not know that thyroid disease runs in families."

1/16/02--Pfizer to Provider Health Benefits, Including $15 Flat Fee for Pfizer Prescriptions, to Low-Income Seniors Across America
Pfizer said announced that beginning March 1, the seven million Medicare-enrolled Americans will become eligible for the Pfizer Share Card, which will enable them to buy a 30-day supply of any Pfizer prescription medicine they need for a flat fee of $15.

1/14/02--Michigan Company Manufactures Thyroid-Protective Drug
As part of the nation's nuclear emergency preparedness, NC-based Two Tigers Management is ramping up to provide thyroid-protective anti-radiation potassium iodide pills for government stockpiling and individual consumers.

1/11/02 -- When Drug Side Effects Get Out Of Hand
I was nearly hospitalized with neurological reactions to an antibiotic at New Year's and am still feeling the effects. When you have an adverse effect to a drug -- including thyroid medicines -- what can you do?

1/9/02 -- A Cold? The Flu? New Guidelines -- and Free Book -- Help Figure It Out!
The American Lung Association has released new guidelines for preventing and treating flu and the common cold. The guidelines, available as a free booklet, explain how to prevent the two illnesses, and what treatment options are available.

1/4/02 -- Government Stockpiles Thyroid-Protecting Drug...But Are You Safe?
The government has purchased 1.6 million doses of the drug potassium iodide, as a protection against a possible of radioactivity in the even of an attack or accident at a nuclear plant. But if there's an accident, can you get the drug you need to protect you?

1/1/02 -- Thyroid Predictions for 2002
After five years of covering the thyroid world, I thought I'd start off the New Year with my predictions...about Synthroid, RAI, weight loss, alternative medicine, the demise of good doctors, and the people who inspire us.

12/14/01 -- South American Herbs and Autoimmune Disease
Anthropologist and herbal expert Dr. Viana Muller talks about South American herbs that can fight viruses, and boost and strenghten the immune system.

12/13/01 -- Winter: Thyroid-Style -- A Lighthearted Look
Thyroid patient and humor writer takes a humorous look at how thyroid patients can cope with winter. "I was happy to learn that my hypothyroidism could take some of the blame for my habit of keeping the house warm enough to hatch chicks" says Jody. Laugh right along with her now!

12/11/01 -- FDA Issues Instructions on Thyroid Cancer-Preventing Pill
In the wake of concerns about nuclear terrorism, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has called for widespread use of potassium iodide, a cheap, non-prescription drug. When taken within hours of a radiatiactive release, the drug can protect against thyroid cancer -- including children, who face the highest cancer risk.

12/03/01 -- Questioning the Rush to RAI: Graves' Disease: A Practical Guide
A fantastic book on Graves' disease and hyperthyroidism has been recently published by Elaine Moore. Covering conventional and alternative means of diagnosis and treatment, and questioning the U.S. medical establishment's "Rush to RAI," Moore explores the issues with candor and a patient-empowering approach. Read this exclusive interview with the author.

12/03/01 -- Will Anti-Anthrax Radiation Harm Mail Order Medicines?
If you receive prescription medicines by mail, as many insurance companies and HMOs are now requiring, are they at risk from radiation meant to protect you from anthrax? We asked pharmaceutical companies and the Postal Inspector.

12/01/01 -- The Natural Medicine View of Thyroid Disease
Natural health practitioner Shasta Tierra-Tayam shares her insights on thyroid disease and herbal medicine, including herbal alternatives, iodine, soy, and solutions for Graves' disease, fatigue, weight gain, depression and more.

11/27/01 -- Can You Be Both Hypo and Hyper?
You're tired and gaining weight, but you have heart palpitations. You're depressed and losing hair, but your blood pressure and pulse are racing. Why are you having hyperthyroidism symptoms, when your doctor says you're hypothyroid? Find out more now.

11/27/01 -- How NOT to Get Sick at Work This Winter
What is the one thing you and your coworkers can do this winter to help keep from giving each other colds and flus? Find out in this informative article.

11/27/01 -- Can Chocolate Help Carbo-Lovers Lose Weight?
Find out how chocolate may be one weapon in the battle to lose weight.

11/27/01 -- How to Keep Warm This Winter
So many people with thyroid conditions feel the cold more than others. With cold hands and feet, and extra susceptibility to the winter chill, thyroid patients need a little extra tender loving warmth! Here are some things to help keep you toasty this winter.

11/27/01 --Canada's Dr. Derry Fights Back
Canadian thyroid expert David Derry, MD, currently under attack for his pro-patient thyroid treatment approaches, is fighting back against attacks by medical conservatives.

11/17/01 -- Holiday Gift Ideas for Thyroid Patients
The books, tapes, herbs and other gifts that make wonderful presents for people with thyroid conditions. From the latest thyroid-related books, to a yoga video, to a health imagery audiotape, to medicinal herbs, you'll find wonderful suggestions for the thyroid patient in your life -- or for yourself!

11/16/01 -- Trial Drug Gives Thyroid Cancer Patient Miracle Of Life
Clayton Twigg went from being told his anaplastic thyroid cancer would give him only six months to live, to being in complete remission two years later, thanks to clinical trials of a new drug. Find out more about this promising drug for a difficult-to-treat cancer.

11/16/01 -- Dr. David Derry Defends Patients' Right to Treatment
Dr. David Derry is an innovative practitioner who has been under unfair attack by the Canadian medical authorities. Just through Friday 11/16, hear the compelling interview with him online now.

11/16/01 -- BIOSAFE's New Thyroid Test Approved in Canada for At-Home Use
BIOSAFE Labs, maker of the first and only home TSH test kit, has just gotten approval for Canada. If you're not aware of this cutting edge company, find out more about affordable, accurate home TSH kits.

11/16/01 -- Is Salt-Sensitivity Making Your Blood Pressure Go Up?
The mechanisms that produce high blood pressure in people with hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism differ, and researchers discover that hypothyroid patients are more salt-sensitive. Find out what this may mean for your health.

11/16/01 -- Did Nuclear Fallout Cause Your Thyroid Problem
It's now known that some states were the unwitting recipient of nuclear fallout during a time when both the United States and Soviet Union were furiously conducting open air testing of nuclear bombs. Are you at risk? Find out now.

11/16/01 -- Congressman Wants Thyroid-Saving Drug Near All Nukes
Mass. Congressman Edward Markey proposed a bill that would stockpile potassium iodide within 200 miles of each of the country's 103 operating nuclear power plants. The drug can protect the thyroid in the even of dangerous radioactive material releases due to nuclear attack or accident.

11/09/01 -- Are Your Favorite Holiday Foods Making You Sick?
Wheat could be the culprit, says one expert, and the result could worsen your autoimmune disease. Find out more now.

11/09/01 -- Mass. Congressman Calls for Thyroid Drug for Children
Rep. Edward Markey is calling for local stockpiling of potassium iodide to prevent thyroid cancer in children, should a nuclear plant acciedent or attack cause a release of radiation.

11/09/01 -- T3 Helps Antidepressant Response
The thyroid hormone triiodothyronine (T3), can accelerate response to certain antidepressants in patients with depression.

10/29/01 -- Canadian Dr. David Derry Under Unfair Attack
If you live in the Vancouver, Vancouver Island or Greater Victoria area, Dr. David Derry needs your support this Wednesday, 10/31, at a public meeting to discuss his ability to continue treating thyroid patients.

10/29/01 -- Best Hospitals for Hormonal Disorders?
What are the best hospitals for endocrinology care? Is one of the best hospitals near you? US News & World Report has categorized them, and the information is online. Find out more now.

10/29/01 -- Levoxyl Recall
In September, King Pharmaceuticals issued a recall of some lots of Levoxyl. Find out more details now.

10/29/01 -- NH Urges Purchase of Thyroid Nuke Pill
The state of New Hampshire has failed in its effort to motivate pharmacists to stock and promote a drug that protects the thyroid from radioactive iodine released in a nuclear reactor disaster.

10/25/01 -- Before You Buy Thyroid Books New
Do you need a patient empowering book, an enlightened practitioner, or a general guide? Find out which thyroid book is for you in this helpful "Before You Buy" guide.

10/25/01 -- What Hypothyroid Patients Should Know about Synthroid
According to Dr. John Lowe, "Despite Synthroid's relative ineffectiveness, when mainstream MDs in the United States diagnose hypothyroidism, they habitually write 'Synthroid' on their prescription pads." Find out why in this fascinating article.

10/25/01 -- After Sept. 11, A New Push for 'Nuclear Pills'
"Mary Lampert keeps a single potassium iodide pill in her medicine cabinet and another in the glove compartment of her car. When you live seven miles from a nuclear plant, she says, you can't be too safe..." Find out why sales of the thyroid-protecting pill are going through the roof.

10/25/01 -- Could Your Thyroid Be Slowing You Down?
Dr. Thomas W. Laedtke will be speaking on Sat 10/27 at 1:00 PM at the 5th Annual Women's Health & Fitness Expo in Minneapolis. If you're from the Twin Cities, don't miss this excellent presentation on thyroid disease.

10/25/01 -- Chernobyl's Cancer World Record
The Chernobyl disaster produced the biggest group of cancers ever from a single incident. Almost 2,000 confirmed cases of thyroid cancer have resulted from the 19865 accident , and as many as 5 million may face an increased cancer risk.

10/25/01 -- Winter Skin Tips: Help For Facing The Elements
With the onslaught of cold weather comes new challenges for maintaining healthy and vital-looking skin, especially for thyroid patients. Dermatologist Dr. Lydia M. Evans shares some tips to help keep dry winter skin at bay.

10/22/01 -- The Top Thyroid Books
Whether you are hypothyroid, have Graves' disease, or are looking for alternative information, there is a book for you.

10/22/01 -- Mass. Residents Stockpile Thyroid-Protective Drug
As the National Guard is deployed, some residents of Duxbury, in the shadow of the Plymouth Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station, are stockpiling potassium iodide, or even carrying it around with them, as thyroid protection.

10/22/01 -- Autoimmune Thyroiditis Linked to Bipolar Disorder
Researchers find that there's a higher rate of thyroid autoimmunity in people with bipolar disorder, and the cause is not lithium treatment, as sometimes has been suspected.

10/22/01 -- Get Iron to Beat Fatigue
If you're one of the millions of women who experience constant fatigue, an expert in women's and children'shealth says taking a simple quiz for iron deficiency could be the first step on the road to recovering your energy and vitality.

10/22/01 -- Speaking Up Is Healthy
A man goes to the doctor. The doctor walks in and asks, "What's wrong?" The man replies, "You're the doctor. You tell me." It's an old joke, but that's how many people still view their relationship with their physician, and now even doctors are urging patients to speak up.

10/14/01 -- Protecting the Thyroid in a Terrorist Attack on Nuclear Facilities
If the terrorists attack nuclear facilities, there's one little pill that could protect your health -- and particularly, your thyroid. Why isn't it readily available to everyone in the U.S.?

10/14/01 -- Disaster Docs Urge Stockpiling Potassium Iodide to Protect Thyroid Gland
Disaster doctors say that we should be stockpiling potassium iodide and directions for use to protect the thyroid gland in the event of fallout.

10/11/01 -- Today is National Depression Screening Day
Free screening available around the country for depression. Find out where you can get your free screening.

10/11/01 -- What Thyroid Patients Need to Know About Depression
Key facts about the different types of depression, symptoms, and treatments.

10/11/01 -- Top 10 Myths About Mental Illness
Is depression a medical illness? Is schizophrenia a split personality? Explore the most common myhths about and depression and mental illness.

10/09/01 -- Book Review: Thyroid Power: Ten Steps to Total Health
A look at this book, by the doctor/nurse, husband/wife team of Richard and Karilee Shames, that offers some helpful information for people struggling to get diagnosed or treated with hypothyroidism.

10/02/01 -- Do Thyroid Patients Need a Flu Shot?
Aches, pains, fever, fatigue...do you really NEED to get the flu this year? Find out whether you should get a flu shot this year, and conventional and alternative ways you can prevent and treat the flu during this 2001-2002 flu season.

10/02/01 -- Digestive Dangers -- The Power of Enzymes
Your digestion may be the key to feeling well -- or continuing to suffer chronic illness. Find out about how the inability of your body to produce enough enzymes, and the lack of digestive enzymes in the food that you eat, may be the reasons behind poor health, and steps you can take to return to wellness.

10/02/01 -- Free Medicare Brochure and Information
What does Medicare cover? Do people with Medicare need additional insurance? What's the best way to choose a Medicare HMO? Should your parents (or you) buy a long-term care insurance policy? How can you tell a good policy from a bad one? Find out how to get your free copy of "Talking With Your Parents About Medicare and Health Coverage."

10/02/01 -- Red Cross Launches One-Stop Nationwide Into Hotline
24-hour a day, 7-day a week assistance is available at a new Red Cross hotline, providing you with immediate access to resources, from instant grief counseling to how the tragedies should be explained to children. With referrals to experts, local chapters, and free literature, it's a one-stop hotline for help related to the Sept. 11th attacks.

9/24/01 -- All About Westhroid and Nature-Throid
Information about these Western Research Labs' natural desiccated thyroid products, including the hypoallergenic Nature-throid.

9/24/01 -- Protecting Yourself From Bioterrorism
If American comes under attack by terrorists using biological agents such as anthrax or smallpox, do you know how to protect your children and yourself? Get the information you need to safeguard your health and your family's safety.

9/21/01 -- Calcium Supplements & Thyroid Hormone Drugs -- What You Need to Know
A reader writes that a life may have been saved by following some simple advice about how to take -- and not take -- calcium supplements when you're on thyroid hormone. Find out more now.

9/21/01 -- Radiation May Not Help Graves' Ophthalmopathy Patients
The conventional wisdom that radiation treatment is the optimal treatment for all cases of thyroid eye disease is being challenged by new research.

9/21/01 -- Maintaining Health After Tragedy
Psychologist and nutritional expert Dr. Udo Erasmus discusses how to maintain physical and emotional health in the aftermath of the September 11th tragedy, including five important things you should do now to avoid immune dysfunction and even cancer as a result of current stress.

9/15/01 -- World Trade Center Syndrome? Health Fears for New Yorkers
In the aftermath of the World Trade Center attacks, New Yorkers may face serious health dangers due to exposure to toxin-laden dust. If you live in New York City, there are ways to protect your health, lungs, and immune system from long-term damage, and Sherrill Sellman and other experts explain how.

9/15/01 -- What Reactions are Normal? When It It More Than Stress?
Some reactions to the national tragedy are entirely normal for all of us to experience after such a crisis as we're going through. What sorts of feelings and symptoms are normal, and when are your symptoms a sign of a greater problem?

9/15/01 -- Psychologists Recommend Ways to Cope With National Tragedy
There are some practical things you can and should do to help yourself through the current crisis. Find out some ideas from the American Psychological Association.

9/15/01 -- Dealing With Stress-Related Sleep Problems
As a result of the pain, grief, and stress coming from the horrific events of the past week, many people will experience sleep disruptions, and children are particularly vulnerable. The National Sleep Foundation has suggestions to help.

9/12/01 -- Can Thyroid & Autoimmune Patients Donate Blood?
In the wake of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack, there's an unprecedented call for blood donations. As a thyroid or autoimmune disease patient, there are some dos and don'ts as far as blood donation. Find out how you might do your part.

9/09/01 -- Kristin's Story: Part 4 -- Life on Armour Thyroid
In Part 3, Kristin reported how she managed to finally convince her doctors to switch her to Armour. Now, in Part 4, Kristin starts the Armour, and you'll hear about the surprising results she had, just a few days after starting on her new prescription.

9/09/01 -- Vintage Pharmaceuticals Recalls Levothyroxine Sodium
The Food and Drug Administration has announced that a manufacturer of generic levothyroxine, Vintage, is recalling some lots of levothyroxine because of stability and potency problems. Find out whether your thyroid medicines are in the recall.

9/06/01 -- Weight Gain Follows Hyperthyroidism Treatment
Researchers have finally shown what patients have known and many doctors have long denied -- that treatment for hyperthyroidism, and in particular, being hypothyroid, DOES cause weight gain. How much can you expect to gain? Find out from this new research study.

9/06/01 -- If You Want to Feel Better: Think Positively
It may sound simplistic, but optimism may truly be good for your health, according to scientists. "There is scientific evidence that when patients have positive thoughts and expect to recover well, they usually do," says researcher Dr. Donald C. Cole. Can you think yourself well? Find out more now!

9/05/01 -- Researchers Suggest Some Malabsorption May be a "Mental Problem"
When your TSH levels aren't budging despite increasing levels of thyroid drugs, why would your doctor accuse you of not taking your medicine? Probably because s/he is reading some of this misguided research, from the Southern Medical Journal, that says that not taking your medicine is frequently the real cause of persistent hypothyroidism.

9/05/01 -- Thyrotoxicosis And Cardiovascular Complications
In serious thyrotoxicosis, too much thyroid hormone can cause arrhythmias, blood clots and even heart failure. Find out more about the various implications of thyrotoxicosis, hyperthyroidism, and their effects on the cardiovascular system.

9/05/01 -- Does Aging Reduce Thyroid and Immune Resistance?
According to Polish researchers, low total T3 level appear to be correlated with low levels of Natural Killer (NK) cells. NK cells are immune cells that help to fight infection and may have a role in preventing or controlling cancer.

9/02/01 -- Exercise Regimen Can Improve Men's Thyroid Function
Running faster for a minute, then slower for a minute, can help men lose weight faster than moving at a steady pace. After 10 weeks, those who changed speeds lost more weight, more fat and improved their thyroid function.

9/02/01 -- Anti-Obesity Drug to Target Thyroid Hormone Receptors
Two pharmaceutical companies have jointly discovered a new anti-obesity drug candidate that targets the thyroid hormone receptor, stimulating metabolism but eliminating the cardiac side effects of too much thyroid hormone.

9/01/01 -- Body Restoration Technique, NAET and JMT: New Techniques for Wellness
Dr. Eric Berg is a practitioner of cutting edge therapies that combine muscle testing, acupressure and energy work to help eliminate sensitivities to allergens, toxins, hormones, viruses, bacteria and other pathogens.

8/28/01 -- Ten Things Your Doctor Won't Tell You About Your Thyroid Condition
From which thyroid drugs are less expensive, to how to get blood tests without your doctor's prescription or markup, to effective solutions and options to deal with the frustration of hair loss, joint pain, muscle aches, and relentless fatigue -- here are the answers and information you deserve -- things that your doctor probably won't tell you.

8/25/01 -- Mary's Mailbox: Letters and Information
In these recent letters to Thyroid Guide Mary Shomon, read about Fred, whose entire family is now overcoming persistent problems related to thyroid conditions. Hear Kay's heartbreaking and cautionary story of her daughter Sharon, who lost her life to neutropenia due to use of the antithyroid drug Tapazole. And find out how to get natural thyroid drugs in Canada.

8/20/01 -- When Symptoms Deteriorate After Thyroid Hormone Replacement Begins
This article from the British Medical Journal advises doctors to suspect Addison's disease if a patient's symptoms worsen after thyroid hormone is given for suspected hypothyroidism.

8/20/01 -- India's Salt Wars -- The Battle Over Iodized Salt
Locally-grown salt is threatening the health of tens of millions of India's children, by creating a risk of iodine deficiency disorders. An excellent, in-depth Salon article takes a look at one of the world's oldest and most debilitating -- yet easily solved -- health problems.

8/20/01 -- Ric Blake Update: Now It's Time to Wait, Wonder
Part 9 in the Eagle-Tribune's series on Thyroid Cancer Survivors' Association founder and patient advocate Ric Blake. With his latest cancer treatment completed, Ric Blake talks about the after-effects, and how to stay on top of the pain.

8/19/01 -- Arthritis and Joint Paint in Thyroid/ Autoimmune Disease
A look at the connections between joint pain with thyroid and arthritic symptoms that can accompany other autoimmune diseases, featuring information from David Brownstein, M.D., author of Overcoming Arthritis,

8/19/01 -- Broda Barnes Conference Scheduled for September 14-16
The Broda Barnes Foundation is holding its conference in Stamford, CT from September 14-16, focusing on cutting-edge information on thyroid disease, adrenal, digestive, and immune dysfunctions. The event is an excellent educational opportunity for practitioners AND patients. Find out more about how to sign up.

8/16/01 -- Five "Calcium Stealers" You Should Know About
Thyroid patients are at greater risk of loss of bone density and osteoporosis. Find out about these five common calcium stealers, and what you can do to protect your bones and health.

8/15/01 -- UK Source of Armour Thyroid
Patients in the United Kingdom now have a source to purchase Armour Thyroid, the natural desiccated thyroid drug.

8/14/01 -- Home Test for Thyroid Disease Debuting in October
A new home test is approved by the FDA and set to be available in October.

8/14/01 -- L-Carnitine May Help Hyperthyroidism
A common and inexpensive supplement may be able to prevent or even reverse symptoms of hyperthyroidism.

8/14/01 -- RAI for Thyroid Cancer Associated With Earlier Menopause
Researchers find that RAI treatment is probably associated with an earlier ovarian failure and earlier menopause in thyroid cancer patients.

8/14/01 -- Pretreatment with Methimazole Doesn't Improve RAI Outcome
Researchers have found that the controversial practice of pretreatment with the antithyroid drug methimazole does not inprove the outcomes of RAI for patients.

8/10/01 -- Thyroid Cancer May Increase Breast Cancer Risk
Researchers confirm earlier findings that having thyroid cancer may increase the risk of developing breast cancer, and the risk is highest in premenopausal white women. Find out what this means for you as a patient.

8/9/01 -- Thyroid Toxin Endangers Water for Millions in Calif. & US
Perchlorate contamination and its danger to Californians and Americans and their health -- including thyroid cancer danger -- is detailed in a new report from the Environmental Working Group, titled "Rocket Science: Perchlorate and the Toxic Legacy of the Cold War."

8/8/01 -- Kristin's Story/Part 3: The Fight For Armour
In Part 3 of Kristin's first-person, Kristin comes up against "Nurse Cranky Pants" and several recalcitrant doctors in her search to switch to Armour thyroid.

8/7/01 -- For UK Thyroid Patients -- How to Stop the GMC Suspending All Alternative Practitioners
An informative letter from Thyroid UK, urging you to take appropriate action to protect your patient rights.

8/1/01 -- Abbott Files New Drug Application for Synthroid
Abbott Laboratories filed with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) its long-awaited new drug application (NDA) for Synthroid putting an end to speculation that Synthroid might not submit in time, and face total withdrawal from the market.

7/24/01 -- Can Herbal Medicine Help Thyroid Disease? Herbalism Up Close, With Herbal Expert Karta Purkh Singh Khalsa
Renowed herbal expert K.P. Khalsa has ideas about herbal treatment for autoimmune disease and thyroid conditions, including whether patients can and should treat themselves.

7/23/01 -- Do People With Thyroid Disease Stop Loving?
A look at how thyroid disease can emotionally isolate some of its sufferers, featuring heartfelt and impassioned advice discussion about depression, emotional isolation, and the impact hypothyroidism has on those with the condition, and those who love them.

7/22/01 -- Dealing With Your Doctor -- Advice from Carol Roberts, M.D.
Advice for patients about getting properly diagnosed, finding the right doctor, and working with that doctor to achieve wellness with conditions like hypothyroidism, chronic fatigue syndrome, and fibromyalgia.

7/21/01 --Mary Shomon's Thyroid Patient Quality of Life Survey
A comprehensive quality of life survey questionnaire for patients to respond to by Friday August 3, 2001. Results will be reported on at the About thyroid site.

7/20/01 -- Kristin's Story -- Part 2
Part 2 of Kristin's compelling first-person account of her experiences with thyroid disease. In this part, Kristin gets diagnosed, starts to feel better, then suffers a setback that has her considering antidepressant therapy.

7/20/01 -- Support Groups
A master list of thyroid support groups around the U.S. and world.

7/17/01 -- Synthroid News Recap
A look at recent coverage of the FDA new drug approval controversy surrounding Synthroid, including About.com thyroid guide Mary Shomon's appearance on ABC World News Tonight, and an in-depth feature by the Tampa Tribune.

7/12/01 -- Synthroid Faces Production Phase-Out, Per FDA, Until August 2003 Total Phase-Out
Is it a defeat, a symbolic hand-slapping, or victory for Synthroid? And what does this mean for patients? Find out in this exclusive look at the new FDA guidance.

7/10/01 -- Dear Dr. Phil: Kiss My Goiter!!
Celisa Dyan's humorous but pointed open letter to the Oprah show's Dr. Phil McGraw, telling it like it REALLY is when it comes to his opinions about hypothyroidism, weight loss and metabolism.

7/6/01 -- Conjugated Linoleic Acid for Weight Loss -- Scientific Info Updated
Is Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) an effective fat-fighter, as has been reported in some venues? Some scientists have looked at the available research, and found that there may be more validity to evidence that CLA may in fact help the body to deposit less fat and build more muscle.

7/1/01 -- Kristin's Story: Part 1
Newly diagnosed thyroid patient Kristin O'Meara shares her story with us. In Part 1, Kristin struggles to get a diagnosis, after having a child in her thirties.

6/29/01 -- Treatment for Thyroid Antibodies And Normal TSH?
Researchers have found that use of preventative thyroid drug treatment in patients who test positive for Hashimoto's antibodies but who have a normal TSH may slow or even prevent full-blown Hashimoto's hypothyroidism.

6/21/01 -- Getting Thyroid Tests Without a Doctor
A new company is offering thyroid tests without a doctor's prescription or approval. Find out more.

6/13/01 -- Patient FAQ About the Levothyroxine Drugs, Including Synthroid
A patient-oriented list of Frequently Asked Questions regarding levothyroxine drugs and Synthroid, including information about the current FDA controversy, and what concerns and issues patients may want to discuss with their healthcare providers.

6/12/01 -- Abbott Laboratories Sues Unithroid Distributor Watson Pharmaceuticals
Synthroid's manufacturer denies safety and effectiveness problems with Synthroid, and accuses competitor of disseminating "misinformation" to patients, in the latest volley in the battle over FDA approval for Synthroid. Features exclusive interviews by Mary Shomon with Abbott, Watson and the Gray Panthers.

6/11/01 -- Chia for Fatigue and Weight Loss
A look at chia seed, which is featured in James Scheer's new book, The Magic of Chia .

6/10/01 -- Thyroid Power
A review of the new book by Richard and Karilee Shames, which offers ideas on how to get diagnosed and properly treated for low thyroid.

6/09/01 -- Autoimmune Hypothyroidism with Drs. Richard and Karilee Shames
The effects of the mind and stress on the immune system, and autoimmune hypothyroidism.

6/06/01 -- Estrogen Therapy May Increase Thyroid Dosage Needs
New England Journal reports that women on thyroid hormone replacement who are starting estrogen therapy need monitoring and potential dosage increases to avoid becoming hypothyroid.

6/04/01 -- Is Synthroid Going to Be Pulled Off the Market?
Back in early May, we published the story of the FDA's letter to Synthroid, outlining the potency and stability concerns behind the FDA's demand that America's second most popular drug go through new drug approval. Now, a month later, it's a national fracas, with doctors and patient groups and consumer advocates all taking sides, and claiming they know what's best for thyroid patients. Get an in-depth look at the real story and forces behind the current public debate.

6/04/01 -- American Thyroid Association, The Endocrine Society, and ThyCa Call for Continued Availability of Thyroid Hormone Products
Official press release regarding the FDA/Synthroid issue.

6/01/01 -- Synthroid Should Remain on the Market, Says the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE)
Official press release regarding the FDA/Synthroid issue.

6/01/01 -- Gray Panthers Challenge Abbott Labs and American Thyroid Association To Answer FDA Concerns Regarding Safety and Effectiveness of Synthroid
Official press release regarding the FDA/Synthroid issue.

6/01/01 -- Abbott Response to News Reports on Synthroid
Official press release regarding the FDA/Synthroid issue.

5/29/01 -- Cholesterol Lowering Drugs and Coenzyme Q-10 Depletion
High cholesterol is frequently a problem for thyroid patients. And thyroid patients can also be deficient in Coenzyme Q-10. Physician and herbal expert Bernd Wollschlaeger, MD shares new concerns about further depletion of CoQ10 for people taking statin drugs (i.e., Lipitor, Zocor) for high cholesterol.

05/29/01 -- Dr. Barry Durrant-Peatfield Still Needs Your Help
The innovative UK thyroid and adrenal expert who is being railroaded out of medical practice by a draconian British medical authority still needs support from patients in the US, UK and around the world. Find out how you can help keep this issue at the forefront of British media attention.

05/28/01 -- The Adrenal - Thyroid Connection
Drs. Richard and Karilee Shames, authors of Thyroid Power, explore adrenal function, adrenal insufficiency and the connection to hypothyroidism.

05/27/01 -- Hypothyroidism in Children with Down Syndrome
Down Syndrome parent advocate Miriam Kauk has information about diagnosis and treatment of hypothyroidism in children with Down Syndrome.

05/26/01 -- 4th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors' Conference Scheduled for September 21-23, 2001
The Washington, D.C. area conference -- the only conference in the world specifically about thyroid cancer -- will feature more than 60 speakers, including 26 physicians. Every thyroid cancer patients, survivor and family member needs to attend this important conference.

05/25/01 -- Levoxyl Receives FDA Approval
The FDA has issued its approval for Levoxyl, manufactured by King. Now, thyroid patients have two FDA-approved levothyroxine drugs, at two very different prices and availabilities, to choose from. In the meantime, the top-selling levothyroxine drug, Synthroid, has still not filed for or received FDA approval.

05/24/01 -- Candida (Yeast) and the Thyroid
Information from holistic practitioner Dr. Michael McNett about the connection between candida (yeast) and hypothyroidism.

05/21/01 -- Twelve Ways to Revive and Boost Your Metabolism
When you're hypothyroid, sluggish metabolism contributes to fatigue, difficulty losing weight, or continued weight gain. Even after your hypothyroidism is properly treated you may find that your metabolism hasn't bounced back. Here are twelve ways to revive and boost your metabolism.

05/17/01 -- The Ultimate Thyroid Patient Exercise Program -- Exercise to Help Hypothyroid Patients Get Fit and Lose Weight
40 minutes, 3 times a week, in your own house, with no special equipment needed, and you can get all the exercise you need for good health, fitness and weight loss. Find out about this easy to follow program that anyone can follow -- no matter what your level of fitness.

05/14/01 -- National Organization of Women, Gray Panthers, and Stop Patient Abuse Now to Take Action Against Pharmaceutical Market Abuses
Group threatens class action suit against Synthroid if the drug is not withdrawn from market. The strategy is intended to raise the financial stakes for drug manufacturers that engage in anti-competitive or anti-consumer behavior in order to avoid competition.

05/13/01 -- Rough Justice in the United Kingdom: GMC Suspends Dr. Barry Durrant-Peatfield
UK patients lose services of UK's most innovative thyroid and adrenal practitioner in a move by the GMC that is just one in a string of questionable, controversial and suspect actions by a much-criticized organization.

05/11/01 -- Indiana's Wrong-Way Driver Judy Kirby Convicted: Fails to Convince Jury That Thyroid Problems Caused Accident That Killed Seven
Indiana thyroid patient Judy Kirby, accused of killing seven people -- including three of her own children -- by going almost two miles the wrong way on a highway and causing a head-on collision with a minivan was convicted of murder on Thursday, May 10, 2001.

05/10/01 -- Solved: Some Common Thyroid Problems: Help from Thyroid Expert and Author, Stephen Langer, M.D.
Author and thyroid expert Stephen Langer, M.D. shares some fascinating information about thyroiditis attacks, a technique that can help hypothyroid patients who cannot tolerate even small doses of thyroid hormone replacement, palpitations and the role of nutritional deficiencies, weight loss challenges, whether thyroid blood tests are really necessary, and things to explore further when you don't get better on adequate treatment.

05/08/01 -- The Thyroid/Menopause Connection
A look at the relationship between hypothyroidism and menopause, with info from Drs. Richard and Karilee Shames.

05/07/01 -- One Out of Five Adults Worldwide May Have a Pituitary Tumor
And a new study shows that one third of these mostly non-cancerous tumors may cause serious disorders, including thyroid and adrenal problems. Do you have a pituitary problem? Find out more, and take our self-assessment questionnaire.

05/03/01 -- Synthroid'sHistory of Problems
In a scathing letter to Knoll Pharmaceuticals, the FDA officially denied their request for various approvals to bypass new drug application, explaining that the top-selling thyroid drug has not been reliably potent and stable for years.

04/30/01 -- Abbott Laboratories to Submit New Drug Application for Synthroid
After failing to bypass the new drug application (NDA) process by applying for "Generally Recognized as Safe and Effective Status," Synthroid's manufacturer is forced to apply for an NDA in order to remain available on the market after August, 2001.

04/28/01 -- Fluoride and Thyroid Disease / With Drs. Richard and Karilee Shames
Holistic practitioners Drs. Richard and Karilee Shames discuss the connection between fluoride and thyroid disease.

04/26/01 -- Marie Savard, MD on Medical Records and Rights
When it comes being an active participant in your health care, there's no more dedicated advocate than Dr. Marie Savard, author of How to Save Your Own Life: The Savard System for Managing and Controlling Your Healthcare and The Savard Health Record. Dr. Savard offers tips on why it's critical to become your own best advocate.

04/25/01 -- Witch-Hunt in the United Kingdom: The General Medical Council vs. the UK's Most Popular Thyroid Doctor
Why is the UK medical establishment trying to discredit Dr. Barry Durant-Peatfield, the UK's most popular doctor for thyroid/adrenal and chronic fatigue conditions? And what can you do to stop them?

04/24/01 -- Can You Kill Seven People and Blame it on Thyroid Disease?
Indiana's "Wrong Way Driver" Judy Kirby blames thyroid disease for accident that killed 7 people, including 3 of her own children. Is it a valid defense, or just a ploy?

04/23/01 -- Could Antibiotics Cure Hashimoto's Disease?
Scientists believe that exposure to the foodborne bacteria yersinia -- found in contaminated meat, fish and other foods -- may be one cause of Hashimoto's thyroiditis. With symptoms that include digestive problems, lower right abdomen discomfort, and joint and muscle pains, could you have a yersinia-triggered thyroid problem?

04/19/01 -- Is St. John's Wort an Effective Antidepressant?
The results from the Journal of the American Medical Association study may be confusing for consumers and health care professionals, and herbal medicine expert Dr. Bernd Wollschlaeger puts the issue into perspective.

04/18/01 -- Maca Information
Overview of common questions about the herb maca, which is believed to stimulate the hypothalamus and pituitary gland to better balance the entire endocrine system.

04/15/01 -- Suzanne Somers: No Ditz When It Comes to Health: The Best Solutions for Cancer May Be the Combination of Conventional and Alternative
Some experts are criticizing actress and diet diva Suzanne Somers' for her decision to use an alternative treatment for breast cancer, calling her a "bad role model" for other women. But Somers' conventional/alternative combo approach makes her a model empowered patient for all women with chronic conditions.

04/14/01 -- What is the "Best" Thyroid Drug?
Is it Synthroid, Unithroid, Armour, Thyrolar, Cytomel, or something else? The answer might surprise you.

04/13/01 -- An Interview with Drs. Richard and Karilee Shames on Their Holistic Approach to Thyroid Disease
This husband and wife holistic team talk about their approach to thyroid disease, including their assertion that "the most important thing to remember is the multilayered complexity of this autoimmune illness."

04/09/01 -- Balancing Your Immune System
A look at ways you can balance -- and even potentially heal -- an immune system that is suffering with Hashimoto's or Graves' Disease.

04/08/01 -- Dear Mary: A Return to Wellness and Fitness With Years of Hypothyroidism
An impassioned letter from a woman who struggled with her own thyroid problem, even while she worked in the fitness industry.

04/07/01 -- You Might Be Hypothyroid If...A Humorous Look at One Woman's Misundersood Thyroid Condition
Celisa Dyan's hilarious and empathetic look at being hypothyroid. As Celisa writes: "...ever tried to say 'You are fired for incompetence' to your doctor? They don't take it nearly as well: they assume it's further proof of your non-medically-caused insanity and tell future doctor's that you're a few marbles short of a good game."

04/03/01 -- Hyperthyroidism and Taking Too Much Thyroid Hormone Increase Risk of Bone Fracture and Osteoporosis
Hyperthyroidism and overdosage of thyroid hormone can increase bone fracture and osteoporosis risk, but use of thyroid hormone itself does not increase risk for fracture if TSH levels are normal.

04/01/01 -- The Couch Potato Diet
Researchers discover enzyme that may allow you to eat more and lose more.

04/01/01 -- Gene-Based Thyroid Cancer Test is In the Works
Test may mean more accurate thyroid cancer diagnosis without surgery.

03/29/01 -- What is Synthroid Hiding?
If Synthroid is safe and effective, why won't it apply for FDA approval like its competitors? The clock is ticking, and as the deadline approaches, rather than applying for FDA approval, Synthroid's manufacturers seem more preoccuped with sending marketing to doctors and pharmacists...See the actual letter they are distributing, and find out what questions YOU should be asking.

03/27/01 -- Thyroid Trade Secrets -- Chemical Exposures and Thyroid Disease, Are You At Risk?
As the chemical industry is exposed for decades of obscuring health effects of key chemicals, it becomes even more important to find out about how your drinking water, toothpaste, even the airplane you fly on, may be making you sick and hurting your thyroid.

03/18/01 -- Do You Have a Thyroid Problem? Take The Thyroid Test!
Take the "Thyroid Test" and find out if your symptoms may point to hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, nodules, or an enlarged thyroid known as goiter.

03/13/01 -- Let's Raise Oprah's Awareness of Hypothyroidism
Menopause...weight gain...low sex drive...stress...Oprah regularly covers these topics, and features women who suffer froma host of hypothyroidism symptoms...but hypothyroidism is never mentioned on the show. Let's change it, by contacting Oprah, and letting her know how difficult hypothyroidism can be to diagnose, and treat, and what we are doing to live well with the condition -- and encourage her to finally feature the condition on her influential show!

03/12/01 -- Wanda & the Hippie Endo: Strange But True Thyroid Doctor Stories
Even a 70s state of mind and a wall full of "groovy" art couldn't save this doctor from the time warp, landing her a spot in the archives of the "strange but true" thyroid doctor stories.

03/12/01 -- Chronic Hives, Rashes Associated With Bacteria, Autoimmunity
Antibiotics or thyroid drugs may be an effective treatment for the chronic rashes and hives condition known as urticaria.

03/12/01 -- Single Dose PTU for Hyperthyroidism
Is a single daily dose of PTU as effective a hyperthyroidism treatment as a single dose of methimazole?

03/12/01 -- Treating Postpartum Thyroid Disease
Should it be treated quickly? Find out what researchers thing.

03/12/01 -- Sick French Say Chernobyl Caused Thyroid Problems
Legal action is being taken.

03/08/01 -- Trouble Taking Vitamins and Supplements? Here Are Tips and Pointers to Help
Do vitamins, herbs and supplements make you a bit queasy? Just not able to swallow a pill? Have you ever taken a handful of supplements at bedtime, only to suffer from heartburn for hours? If so, you'll find this advice from dietitian Lynn Moss helpful.

03/07/01 -- Green Tea Extract Increases Metabolism, May Aid in Weight Loss
Researchers have found that green tea extract can help raise metabolism and aid in weight loss -- without the potentially dangerous stimulant effects of other herbal diet aids.

03/06/01 -- Understanding Vitamin, Supplement and Herb Labels
Do you get confused by RDAs, IUs, mgs and mcgs and the rest of the information on vitamin, herb or supplement labels? Well if you, like me, take dozens of supplements a day, you'll find this label primer helpful in understanding the pills you take.

03/01/01 -- Should We Take Thyroid Medicine Away From the Elderly?
One researcher reporting in a major medical journal has concluded that many elderly who are on thyroid hormone don't need to be, and should be removed from their thyroid treatment. Find out what's wrong with this research, and why it may be a concern.

02/21/01 -- Mad Cow Risks From Armour and Glandulars
A look at whether the natural, desiccated thyroid product Armour Thyroid poses a risk of mad cow disease, as well as the risks of glandular supplements.

02/20/01 -- Fatigue and Exhaustion Solutions
A look at various solutions -- including herbal, vitamins and supplements, to deal with tiredness related to hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, including the one obvious treatment many people overlook.

02/19/01 -- Subclinical Hypothyroidism
A look at subclinical hypothyroidism, and some common questions.

02/18/01 -- Is Vinpocetine the Answer to Brain Fog, Cognitive and Memory Problems?
Vinpocetine, a popular European supplement, and newly available in the U.S., may be the answer to memory, cognitive and brain fog problems for thyroid patients.

02/15/01 -- Synthroid Still Lacks Approval Necessary to Remain Legally on the Market After August 14, 2001
Without an approved new drug application from the FDA, or a change in status, Synthroid will not longer be legal to sell after August 14, 2001. What thyroid drugs ARE approved by the FDA at present, and what will happen in August if Synthroid is NOT approved?

02/14/01 -- An In-Depth Look at the People and History Behind Alt.support.thyroid, Usenet's Thyroid Support Newsgroup
If a person with a suspected or diagnosed thyroid condition is looking for help in the Usenet newsgroup environment, he or she will find alt.support.thyroid (a.s.t.), the newsgroup dedicated to thyroid information and support. In this interview, meet various members of a.s.t., and find out more about the fascinating history of this online support group.

02/12/01 -- Heart Sense: Information from Cardiologist Dr. Stephen Sinatra
"A woman with thyroid disease needs to take more responsibility for her heart," says holistic cardiologist in this interview talking about the heart disease/thyroid connection. Find out the one supplement Dr. Sinatra believes every woman with thyroid disease should be taking.

02/11/01 -- Survey: What Are The Worst Symptoms of Thyroid Disease?
Patients speak out about key thyroid symptoms -- common AND little known -- in this survey, and options that help are discussed.

02/09/01 -- Cough & Cold Medicines and Decongestants: What Do Thyroid Patients Need to Know?
Why do over-the-counter cough medicines, cold medicines, and decongestants say "do not take if you have thyroid disease"? And what can you take for cold and flu?

02/08/01 -- How to Keep Exercising and Keep it Exciting! 17 Tips from Thyroid Patients
Excellent ideas from thyroid patients that help you get motivated and stay motivated when working out. Are you losing interest in your workouts? These tips will rev you back up!

02/07/01 -- Press Release: In Wake Of Rod Stewart's Thyroid Cancer Diagnosis, Doctor Group Issues Call To Action To Increase Screening
American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists says a simple self-exam of the thyroid can help other individuals detect problems such as Rod Stewart's thyroid cancer.

02/02/01 -- Satietrol: Another Tool in the Thyroid Diet and Weight Loss Battle?
Can this new over-the-counter diet aid help thyroid patients safely lose weight? Find out more now.

02/01/01 -- Unithroid Update -- Where Can You Get Unithroid, and When?
Unithroid is still the only FDA-approved levothyroxine product. But can you get a prescription filled easily? And if so, where can you get it?

01/26/01 -- Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) Supplements for Weight Loss -- Frequently Asked Questions
Questions and Answers about Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) Supplements, which can help speed weight loss, build muscle, and reduce fat in people struggling to lose weight.

01/25/01 -- "Think Thyroid" -- Post-Partum, Menopause, and Over 60 Are Key Trigger Times for Thyroid Disease
January is Thyroid Awareness Month, and to help promote public awareness of thyroid disease, the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists has urged the public to be more aware of thyroid disease, particularly during the life stages when it's most likely to appear.

01/24/01 -- Fluoride May Not Prevent Cavities, and Can Cause Health Problems, Including Thyroid Concerns
Cavity rates declined in several cities that stopped water fluoridation, new studies report, contradicting American Dental Association (ADA) predictions...fluoride in water and toothpaste may also increase risk of thyroid problems, according to the Fluoride Action Network.

01/23/01 -- American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists Changes Opinion Regarding TSH Levels and Diagnosing Hypothyroidism
"TSH level between 3.0 and 5.0 uU/ml ...should be considered suspect," Says AACE. Change in approach may mean millions more are diagnosed as hypothyroid, and may signal change in drug treatment protocol for hypothyroid patients.

01/22/01 -- Gluten Intolerance/Celiac Disease
Gluten intolerance -- also known as celiac disease, celiac sprue, and sprue -- is a genetic autoimmune condition that makes it difficult for the body to properly absorb nutrients from foods. It affects an estimated 1.5 million Americans. The incidence of full-scale gluten intolerance has been found to be substantially higher in people with autoimmune thyroid disease. Find out more about the thyroid/gluten-celiac connection, and how it may be affecting you.

01/18/01 -- Thyroid Diet Secrets: Are You Eating Enough Calories to Lose Weight?
The reason you're not losing weight may be that you're eating too little -- and shutting down your metabolism -- rather than eating too much. Find out how thyroid patients can calculate how much you need to eat to lose!

01/11/01 -- Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) Supplements May Speed Weight Loss
Important news of exciting results with this nutritional supplement promises thyroid patients a new tool in the effort to successfully lose weight.

01/03/01 -- The Thyroid Foundation of America
A look at the plans and perspectives for 2001 from from America's largest thyroid patient organization, featuring an interview with the foundation's new executive directory, Kevin R. Laverty.

01/02/01 -- Hypothyroidism in Infants and Children
A look at hypothyroidism in newborns, babies and children, including causes, symptoms and treatment of underactive thyroid conditions.

01/01/01 -- How To Keep Your Thyroid Resolutions in 2001
If you are a thyroid patient who wants to lose weight, stop smoking, start exercising, have a baby, or simply feel better in 2001, here's information and tools to help you keep your resolutions.

12/28/00 -- 2000 -- The Year In Review
Did you know that thyroid disease is more common than thought? Thyroid disease may increase your risk of ovarian cancer, breast cancer or miscarriage? Synthroid is NOT approved by the FDA? Important news items recapped...

12/20/00 -- Fertility, Infertility and Thyroid Disease
Information about thyroid disease's effects on fertility, and how to overcome thyroid-related infertility to have a safe and healthy pregnancy and baby.

12/19/00 -- Thyroid Problems After Pregnancy
A look at common questions about thyroid conditions that develop after having a baby.

12/18/00 -- A Letter To My Pal Santa
In Jody LaFerriere's hilarious "Letter to Santa," she writes to the Big Man himself, and wondering about Santa's weight and one day a year job, asks if he's ever had his thyroid levels checked. "Are you hiding a goiter under your beard?" Don't miss this hilarious holiday special letter!!!

12/17/00 -- Getting What You Need From Your Doctor: Challenges of Thyroid Care
Don "Doc Don" Michael, M.D.'s look at how you can get the best from your doctor -- and why you don't deserve any less.

12/16/00 -- Pregnancy and an Overactive Thyroid/Hyperthyroidism
Information on being pregnant with an overactive thyroid/hyperthyroidism/Graves' disease.

12/15/00 -- Synthroid to Get New Manufacturer
Knoll Pharmaceutical, manufacturer of Synthroid, to be sold to Abbott Laboratories.

12/14/00 -- Hypothyroidism and Pregnancy
Information on how to get pregnant and have a healthy pregnancy when hypothyroid.

12/13/00 -- FDA Orders Recall of Synthroid
Product samples given to doctors are mislabeled, and patients may be receiving 100 mcg pills labeled as 200 mcg. Find out if you have any of the mislabeled product!

12/08/00 -- When Will Synthroid Disbursements be Paid?
If you signed up to participate in the Synthroid lawsuit, you may be expecting a payment here at year's end. But don't look for your check anytime soon. Find out what the lawyers have to say about when you really can expect your share of the lawsuit settlement.

12/06/00 -- Top Ten Signs That You Might Have a Thyroid Problem
More than 13 million Americans have an undiagnosed thyroid condition. Here are ten of the key risk factors and symptoms -- including changes in weight, hair, energy, mood, bowels, and fertility -- that may signal that you are one of those with this common yet frequently undiagnosed health condition.

12/05/00 -- Hypothyroidism in Dogs
Overview of key questions about the most common endocrine condition to affect dogs.

12/04/00 -- Should You Take ThyroStart for Weight Loss?
A look at the ingredients of ThyroStart, and whether or not this supplement is of help for thyroid patients wishing to lose weight.

11/27/00 -- Volunteers to Ingest Perchlorate, Potentially Thyroid-Damaging Pollutant, in Water Safety Study
Ethical questions, conflict of interest suggestions, and health concerns are being raised by a new study in which participants are being paid to ingest a chemical that is harmful to the thyroid.

11/26/00 -- Combatting High Cholesterol
Diet, herbal and prescription ways to cope with thyroid-related high cholesterol levels.

11/21/00 -- Hypothyroidism Increases the Risk of Miscarriage
Researchers have found that the second trimester miscarriage risk is substantially higher for women when hypothyroidism is undiagnosed.

11/20/00 -- FDA Issues Warning Regarding Tiratricol/TRIAC Diet Aids
Recalls have been issued on an over-the-counter diet supplement that can cause hyperthyroidism, and raises the risk of stroke and heart attack.

11/18/00 -- Put Some Gravy On That: Thanksgiving Ruminations of a New Thyroid Patient
Humorist Jody LaFerriere also happens to be a newly diagnosed thyroid patient. She's taken a light-hearted look at the things she's thankful for, which include her thyroid pills, TV, and. . . storage bins? Only Rubbermaid knows for sure!

11/17/00 -- Holiday Gift Ideas for People with Thyroid Conditions
The books, tapes, CDs, herbs and other gifts that make wonderful gifts for people with thyroid conditions. From the latest thyroid-related books, to a computer stretch CD, to a health imagery tape, to medicinal herbs, you'll find wonderful suggestions for the thyroid patient in your life -- or for yourself!

11/16/00 -- Exploring the Hormone Heresy with Women's Health Advocate Sherrill Sellman
The controversies surrounding estrogen therapy, the use of progesterone, and how the entire hormone replacement issue fits together with thyroid problems are discussed by cutting edge women's health advocate Sherrill Sellman.

11/15/00 -- The Yin and Yang of the Thyroid: A Look at Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture for Thyroid Disease, with Dr. Patrick Purdue
An in-depth look at Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and its view of thyroid disease. If you've ever wondered if Chinese Medicine might have answers to your particular health challenges, Dr. Patrick Purdue will help you determine if this approach is right for you.

11/10/00 -- Different Styles of Doctors for Thyroid Patients
Does your doctor view him or herself as dictator, a father figure, a teacher, or a partner? Do HMOS or national health programs serve up a revolving door of new doctors every visit? Find out your physician's "DoctorStyle," and what it means mean for you and your health.

11/09/00 -- Diet Drug Dangers for Thyroid Patients: FDA Cautions Against Use of Popular Diet Aids Ephedra and Phenylpropanolamine
FDA-sponsored research identifies stroke and cardiac risks associated with popular diet supplements ephedra and phenylpropanolamine, and warnings are particularly strong for thyroid patients. What is the story, and what else is there for weight loss besides and Metabolife, Herbalife and Dexatrim?

11/08/00 -- Dr. Raymond Peat on Thyroid Disease
This renowned nutritional expert has touched upon many facets of thyroid disease,
high cholesterol, progesterone, kelp, salt, protein, coconut oil, and much more more, including controversial thoughts about Graves' disease and hyperthyroidism.

11/04/00 Winterizing Your Thyroid
Tips and information on how cold weather affects your thyroid and health.

11/03/00 -- Dr. John Dommisse's Paper Addresses Optimal Treatment For Hypothyroidism
Holistic physician John Dommisse, M.D. has self-published an intriguing and controversial new paper discussing the optimal management of hypothyroidism, monitoring of Free T4 and Free T3 levels, and the real role of the TSH level.

11/02/00 -- Hyperthyroidism in Cats
An overview of the key questions about the most common endocrine condition to affect cats.

10/24/00  -- Your Thyroid Up in Smoke, Cigarette Smoking's Little Known Links to Thyroid Disease
A look at the dramatic but little-known connections between cigarette smoking and the development or worsening of various thyroid conditions, including hypothyroidism, Graves' disease, and thyroid eye disease.

10/20/00 -- Menstrual Problems and Thyroid Disease
Menstrual problems are not only a common symptom of thyroid conditions, but can continue in people who are treated for hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Info for those struggling with irregular, heavier, lighter or painful menstrual periods.

10/19/00 --  Thyroid Nutrition with Dr. Edward Bauman
A look at the nutritional factors that can help or hinder your thyroid health, including iodized salt, seaweeds, fish, flax seeds, coconut, aspartame, and more.

10/18/00  -- Muscle and Joint Pain With Thyroid Disease
A look at the muscle and joint-related symptoms of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.

10/16/00 -- Hair Loss With Thyroid Disease
Practical things you can do to slow or stop hair loss associated with thyroid disease.

10/13/00 -- Marriott Pulls Ad Mocking Thyroid Patients
Marriott has pulled the controversial ad for Fairfield Inns that mocks thyroid patients, citing the groundswell of thyroid patient concern as the reason. Find out how patient power had an impact!

10/12/00 -- Quiz: What's Your TQ (Thyroid Quotient)?
An informative True/False quiz that looks at how well you understand your thyroid condition.

10/11/00 -- Marriott Ad Mocks Thyroid Patients
Marriott's Fairfield Inns is running an ad that mocks thyroid patients. Is it just "tongue in cheek," or is it an insult to thyroid patients? Find out what the Marriott execs had to say, in this About Thyroid site exclusive.

10/9/00 -- Do Thyroid Patients Need a Flu Shot?
A look at whether you should get a flu shot this year, and conventional and alternative ways you can prevent and treat the flu for the 2000-2001 flu season.

10/5/00 -- 15 Reasons Why Your TSH May Be Fluctuating
If your TSH levels are changing from lab test to lab test, do you know why? Discover 15 different reasons behind changing TSH levels, including some things you may be taking or eating every day that can substantially impact your thyroid and health.

9/29/00 -- South American Herbs with Dr. Viana Muller
South American medicinal herbs from the rain forest and Andes, and their use in treating hormonal imbalances, and potential use in thyroid regulation, and more.

9/27/00 -- Thyroid Advocate and Champion Sprinter Gail Devers Drops Out
Devers' injury keeps her out of 100m Olympics finals, missing third chance at medal in hurdles.

9/26/00 -- Thyroid Nodules: When It's Time for a Second Opinion on a Pathology Diagnosis
Information from Dr. Barry M. Shmookler, a surgical pathologist and founder of FindCancerExperts.com, about second opinions for thyroid nodules.

9/25/00 -- Gail Devers Olympic Update
Follow the news about Gail Devers participation in the 100 meter hurdles in the Sydney Olympics.

9/24/00 -- Women With Thyroid Cancer at Increased Risk for Breast Cancer
New study finds that RAI treatment for thyroid cancer in women increases their risk for breast cancer five to twenty years later.

9/21/00 -- "I've Got Unfinished Business" -- Gail Devers Targets Olympic Gold in 100 Meter Hurdles On Monday, September 25th
Four days before her effort to earn her first gold in the 100 meter hurdles, Olympian and thyroid patient Gail Devers shares her thoughts on the one medal that has eluded her.

9/20/00 -- Panic Attacks and Palpitations: Are They Signs of Hyperthyroidism?
A look at the symptoms of panic attack, and whether they are due to hyperthyroidism, heart problems, or panic disorder.

9/17/00 -- Thyroid Disease and Breast Cancer
Scientists have come down on both sides of this important and debate.

9/16/00 -- Being Healed Versus Being Cured: A Thyroid Patient's Perspective
When is it time to stop looking for the answers and cures to your physical problems and start focusing on healing? A look at healing and what we can control.

9/13/00 -- Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy of the Thyroid
A look at key information related to Fine Needle Aspiration (or FNA).

9/07/00 -- Help, I'm Hypothyroid and I Still Don't Feel Well
When you've already been diagnosed and are being treated with thyroid hormone replacement drugs -- for example, Synthroid -- but you still don't feel well, is there anything else you can do? Or should you just accept that "it's not your thyroid anymore?" Read this article before you give up, because there are many specific things you can do to feel better and live well.

9/05/00 -- Could You Have a Thyroid Problem? The Dangers of "Explaining Away Your Symptoms"
Do you have weight changes, fatigue, depression, and other symptoms, but figure it's normal for your age, gender, lifestyle, or hormonal situation? Don't explain away your symptoms until you read this article -- it could save your life.

9/01/00 -- Should You Switch to Unithroid?
Currently, Unithroid is the only FDA-approved levothyroxine thyroid drug on the market. Would you feel better if you switched to it from other brands like Synthroid?

8/29/00 -- All About Thyroid Drugs
If you want to understand the differences between thyroid drugs, this is the place to start. A review of different thyroid drugs, including T4, T4/T3 and natural thyroid drugs, brands such as Synthroid, Thyrolar, Cytomel, Armour, Tapazole, and generic drugs such as levothyroxine, liothyronine, liotrix, methimazole, and propylthiouracil.

8/26/00-- Gene Marker in Follicular Thyroid Tumors May Reduce Need for Thyroid Surgery
Article discussing fusion genes, and how they can serve as gene markers for follicular thyroid cancer and help to avoid thyroid surgery.

8/24/00 -- Food and Drug Administration Approves Unithroid
First "New Drug Application" for thyroid drug levothyroxine sodium is approved.

8/21/00 -- Chemical in Drinking Water May Create Thyroid Problems
Researchers find that perchlorate in drinking water may be creating thyroid problems in Arizona newborns.

8/10/00 -- Synthroid Class Action Lawsuit Settlement Approved: Consumers Who Filed to Receive $74 to $111 Each in 2000
The long-running class action lawsuit against the manufacturers of Synthroid was finally settled in August of 2000, and thyroid patients stand to receive up to a $111 settlement payment.

8/04/00 -- Low Sex Drive and Thyroid Disease
Low libido is a common hypothyroidism symptom. So how do you put the sizzle back in your sex drive?

8/03/00 -- Are You Depressed? Take Our Depression Quiz
Even after thyroid diagnosis and treatment, depression can sometimes continue, an unwanted side effect of coping with long-term chronic illness like thyroid disease. Take our Depression Quiz to see if you have symptoms of clinical depression, and find out more about the thyroid/depression connection.

8/02/00 -- 10 Creative Ways to Remember to Take Your Thyroid Pills
One of the main reasons people on thyroid hormone replacement don't feel well is simple and easily resolved: they forget to take their thyroid pills. Do you have a hard time remembering to take your pills? Here are ten creative ways to help you remember.

8/01/00 -- 10 Die-Hard Thyroid Myths
Is a TSH test the only way to diagnose thyroid problems? Does Graves' Disease mean you'll get bulging eyes? Are natural thyroid drugs stopping production? Does everyone with thyroid problems get a goiter? Find out thyroid fact from fiction.

7/26/00 -- Pesticides Targeting West Nile-Carrying Mosquitos May be a Thyroid Danger
With fears on the rise over the potential spread of the West Nile Virus, New York City and Boston have both embarked on widespread spraying programs to wipe out the infected mosquitos that spread the virus. Key insecticides being used, resmethrin, which goes by a brand name "Scourge," and sumithrin, which goes by the name "Anvil," are, however, under fire as potentially toxic chemicals that pose a danger to humans, wildlife, the environment -- and our thyroid function.

7/25/00 -- David Derry, M.D., Ph.D. and TSH Testing
Dr. David Derry believes that "the TSH [test] needs to be scrapped and medical students taught again how to clinically recognize low thyroid conditions." Find out more about his provocative ideas.

7/23/00 -- Gail Devers: Hurdling Thyroid Obstacles On Her Way to the Gold -- Top Sprinter and High-Profile Thyroid Patient Wants Gold in 100-Meter Hurdles in Sydney
Graves' Disease patient, high-profile thyroid spokeswoman and Olympic gold medal-winning sprinter Gail Devers has broken an American record in her successful bid for a spot on the U.S. Olympic Team for the Summer Olympics in Sydney. Find out more about this outstanding athlete and the hurdles she's successfully faced, both on the track and off.

7/22/00 -- Breastfeeding and Thyroid Disease, Questions and Answers
Can you nurse when hypothyroid and taking drugs like Synthroid? Can hypothyroidism interfere with your ability to breastfeed? Can you breastfeed when hyperthyroid, and taking antithyroid drugs like tapazole or PTU? Can you have a thyroid scan or Radioactive Iodine treatment when breastfeeding? Find out all the answers in this helpful article.

7/20/00 -- Selenium Critical to General Health and Thyroid Function
Researchers are calling attention to the importance of selenium to health, citing the trace mineral's potential to reduce the risk of thyroid problems, pregnancy and fertility problems, heart disease, and progression of HIV to AIDS, among other positive results.

7/18/00 -- Effective New Autoimmune Disease Drugs to Use Scorpion Venom
Researchers have reported that the venom of scorpions will eventually become an effective new drug treatment for some common autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis and lupus, as well as more than sixty other autoimmune disorders.

7/17/00 -- David Brownstein, MD., Natural Hormones for Hypothyroidism
Dr. David Brownstein talks about why he feels that natural hormones such as Armour Thyroid work best for hypothyroidism, T4 to T3 conversion problems, and balancing out the entire hormonal system.

7/12/00 -- Do You Have an Autoimmune Disease?
A look at whether symptoms such as fatigue, weight changes, and depression are pointing to an undiagnosed autoimmune condition.

6/26/00 -- Joseph Mercola's Thoughts on Hypothyroidism
Dr. Mercola, a holistic physician, talks about the "Big Myth" of the TSH test, the use of Armour thyroid, the difficulties losing weight, soy, fluoride in water, what factors are triggering hypothyroidism in some people, whether there's any validity to "Wilson's Syndrome," and much more.

6/20/00 -- Carol Roberts, M.D. on Hypothyroidism
Carol Roberts, M.D.'s theories on natural thyroid hormones and vitamins/supplements, plus the relationship between Type A personalities and thyroid problems.

6/15/00 -- Experts Call for Thyroid Screening for Americans Over 35
With symptoms that can be vague and difficult to diagnose, thyroid disease frequently goes undiagnosed. now, experts are calling for everyone over 35 to have a thyroid test. Are you at risk for thyroid disease? Should you be tested? This article looks at these questions.

6/12/00 -- 15 Ways to Feel and Live Well With Hypothyroidism
If you are hypothyroid -- whether due to surgery, radioactive iodine treatment, or Hashimoto's disease -- here are 15 of the best ideas that can help you feel your absolute best!

6/11/00 -- The Thyroid Treatment/Osteoporosis Controversy
Does thyroid hormone replacement therapy increase your risk of osteoporosis? Do low-normal range TSH levels or use of T3 drugs increase the risk that you may have loss of bone density? A look at these controversial issues.

6/10/00 -- Do You Need an Endocrinologist?
When your thyroid disease has been diagnosed by a family practice or primary care doctor, should you request a consultation with an endocrinologist? If you're being treated for thyroid disease but still don't feel well, is it time to ask for a second opinion? Find out more about when you need to see a thyroid specialist.

6/09/00 -- Hashimoto's Encephalopathy
Hashimoto's Encephalopathy, a rare condition associated with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, is frequently associated with neurological symptoms, and may even be misdiagnosed as dementia, Alzheimer's, stroke, or mental illness. Find out more about this underdiagnosed condition.

6/08/00 -- Thyroid Cancer Survivors Conference Planned for September
Find out about the upcoming third Thyroid Cancer Survivors Conference, (ThyCa 2000) in September of 2000 in the Washington, DC area.
 

6/01/00 -- Rocker Rod Stewart Has Thyroid Surgery
The raspy-voiced rocker undergoes surgery to remove a suspicious thyroid nodule.

5/29/00 -- Thyroid Nodules in Pregnancy May Have Higher Malignancy Rate
New findings report that thyroid nodules in pregnant women have a greater chance of being malignant than nodules in
non-pregnant patients.

5/22/00 -- Thyroid Surgery Overview
Information on thyroid surgery, and where to find a thyroid surgeon.

05/18/00 -- Thyroid Cancer
A starting point for where to find information about thyroid cancer, including papillary, follicular, medullary and anaplastic cancer, including support groups and followup treatments.

05/15/00-- Thyroid Nodules, Lumps and Goiter
An overview of diagnosis and treatment for thyroid nodules, lumps, and the enlarged thyroid known as goiter, including evaluating nodules for possible thyroid cancer.

05/11/00 -- Chernobyl's Continuing Thyroid Impact
A look at the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear accident and its continuing impact on thyroid disease, particularly in children, in Belarus and the Ukraine.

05/05/00 -- You Can Be a Thyroid Success! More Success Stories
Meet nine new thyroid successes, including Eileen Johnson, a thyroid cancer survivor who is now a promising young singer, Sue, who has gone from a wheelchair to climbing 150 foot towers, and Blondielou, who is now in the best shape of her life, despite her thyroid diagnosis.

04/28/00 -- Tips on Thyroid Disease, from Marie Savard
A look at the importance of keeping health data and test results, from Marie Savard, M.D., author of The Savard Health Record: A Six Step System for Managing Your Healthcare, and How to Save Your Own Life: Dr. Savard's Nine Steps to Getting the Healthcare You Really Need.

04/21/00 -- Thyroid Disease 101: Basic Information on Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, Nodules, Goiter, and Thyroid Cancer
Overview of information about thyroid disease, including diagnosis and treatment of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, nodules, goiter, and thyroid cancer.

04/14/00 -- Is Thyroid Disease Really So "Easy to Treat?"
Recent articles in the Associated Press and Parade magazine are pushing for people to get tested for thyroid disease, a good thing, but going on to say that once diagnosed, thyroid disease is extremely easy to treat, and hypothyroidism in particular is completely solvable by "one little pill a day." Some experts -- and patients -- don't agree at all.

04/07/00 -- The Celiac/Autoimmune Thyroid Connection: A Major Thyroid Disease Breakthrough
Major new research! Medical journal reports on major connection between the intestinal condition known as celiac disease/gluten-intolerance, and discover how diet can elminate antithyroid antibodies in celiac/thyroid patients.

03/31/00 -- Hyperthyroidism Increases Ovarian Cancer Risk
New research has shown that hyperthyroidism increases the risk of developing ovarian cancer by 80%.

03/24/00 -- Thyroid Drugs: Frequently Asked Questions about Food, Drug and Supplement Interactions
The key questions frequently asked about thyroid drugs.

03/17/00 -- Is Your Thyroid Making You Exhausted?
Fatigue and exhaustion are common symptoms of both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. There are things you can do to relieve this common problem -- including one very simple solution.

03/10/00 -- Living Well With Hypothyroidism
Information, table of contents, and a free chapter excerpt online of Thyroid Guide Mary Shomon's new book, Living Well With Hypothyroidism: What Your Doctor Doesn't Tell You...That You Need to Know, the first patient-oriented manual for living well with this common condition.

03/03/00 -- Metabolic Mysteries: Undiagnosed Thyroid Disease and Women
An overview of the prevalence of undiagnosed thyroid conditions in women, the symptoms of the most common undiagnosed conditions -- hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism -- a review of treatments, and a look at some ways to possibly prevent thyroid disease from developing in the first place.

02/28/00 -- Thyroid Disease Far More Widespread Than Originally Thought, 13 Million May Be At Risk
A major new study finds that 13 million Americans may be unaware of and undiagnosed for their thyroid conditions and that more widespread thyroid testing is needed in order to avoid the health effects -- including high cholesterol -- of even slighly elevated TSH levels.

02/25/00 -- How to Start a Thyroid Support Group
The founder of the successful and growing Michigan Thyroid Disorder Support Group, Tracy Green, offers her excellent advice on how to start your own thyroid support group.

02/15/00 -- Low Thyroid is Heart Risk for Older Women
New research finds that older women with subclinical hypothyroidism are almost twice as likely as women without this condition to have blockages in the aorta and twice as likely to have had heart attacks.

02/14/00 -- The Congenital Heart Disease/Thyroid Disease Connection
As part of About.com's Congenital Heart Disease awareness effort, a review of the important thyroid disease/heart disease links.

02/07/00 -- Fluoride: The Hidden Danger in Your Drinking Water and Toothpaste
This common additive to your water supply, and ingredient in the toothpaste you and your children use may be contributing to the increased rates of hypothyroidism -- and other health concerns -- in the U.S. . . . without improving dental health

01/27/00 -- Olympian Gail Devers Testifies Before Congress Re: Her Thyroid Misdiagnosis
Gold medal winner talks about years of not being diagnosed with Graves' disease, and need for better public reporting of medical errors.

01/25/00 -- Synthroid Lawsuit Settled: March 10, 2000 is Deadline to File
If you purchased Synthroid between January 1, 1990 and October 21, 1999, you may be eligible to receive almost $200 in compensation for overpayment for the drug. Find out how.

01/18/00 -- High Cholesterol & Thyroid Disease
How undiagnosed thyroid disease may be the real reason behind your high cholesterol.

01/09/00 -- Hypothyroidism and Iron Levels: Anemia and Hemachromatosis
A look at the connection between conditions of iron imbalance -- iron deficiency anemia and hemachromatosis (iron overload) -- and hypothyroidism.

12/29/99 -- Tipper Gore Thyroid Growth Removed
Vice President Al Gore's wife has suspicious nodule removed and evaluated for potential thyroid cancer.

12/20/99 -- Thyroid Success Stories!
What better way to achieve better health than to learn from the success stories of your fellow thyroid patients! New stories added regularly!

12/01/99 -- Iodine Deficiency Global Threat
WHO/UNICEF say it's leading preventable cause of brain damage and retardation, and more than 1 billion are at risk worldwide.

11/27/99 -- Your Emotions and Stress -- Ideas on Managing Chronic Disease
An Interview with therapist Andrea Schara, talking about how to manage stress with chronic disease, and the particular emotional and family stresses of hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.

11/18/99 -- Smoking and Thyroid Disease / About.com's Great American Smokeout '99 Special
An in-depth look at the relationship between smoking and thyroid disease, including a look at whether smoking triggers or worsens thyroid problems

11/12/99 -- Triax and Triac Diet Supplements Found to Be Thyroid Danger, May Cause Heart Attack, Stroke
FDA issues warning against a popular diet supplement which is found to cause hyperthyroidism and dangerous side effects.

11/05/99 -- Alan Cohen, M.D., on Depression and Thyroid Disease--
Highlights of Alan Cohen, M.D.'s theories on the relationship of depression to hypothyroidism, the need for T3, his thoughts about treatment for hypothyroid patients with depression.

10/18/99 -- Should Thyroid Patients Get a Flu Shot?
A look at whether or not thyroid patients should, in particular, consider getting a flu shot to prepare for the upcoming flu season.

10/12/99 -- Losing Weight With Hypothyroidism / Part 2
Second part of an article looking at the surprising reasons why it's so difficult to lose weight with hypothyroidism -- including metabolic set point, changes in brain chemistry, and insulin resistance. Also, an indepth look at insulin resistance and thyroid disease, how to lose weight and fight insulin resistance, and the essential books to help you in your fight.

10/11/99 -- Losing Weight With Hypothyroidism
A look at the surprising reasons why it's so difficult to lose weight with hypothyroidism.

10/01/99 -- The Tokaimura Nuclear Accident / Protecting the Thyroid in a Nuclear Accident
Information about the inexpensive pill that could protect your health in a nuclear accident, and why it's not readily available to everyone at risk in the U.S.

9/28/99 -- Yoga and Thyroid Disease
A look of the positive and healthy role yoga can play in thyroid disease, including the key yoga pose for thyroid health

9/22/99 - An Interview with John Dommisse, MD
Part of the Practitioner Perspectives Series, an interview with John Dommisse, MD, who has some interesting thoughts regarding treatment for thyroid problems.

9/13/99 - Thyroid Eye Disease
Review of Thyroid Eye Disease/Graves' Opthamolopathy symptoms, treatments, info and resources

8/31/99 - Perchlorate Found in U.S. Fertilizers: Chemical Acts as Antithyroid Agent
Review of the news that shows the thyroid-damaging chemical perchlorate present in U.S. fertilizers and what this means for our food and water supply.

8/30/99 - Soy and Thyroid Disease
The risk that soy products have for adults with thyroid disease, and particularly for infants on soy formulas, is discussed.

8/24/99 - ThyCa 1999 -- Thyroid Cancer Survivor's Association 1999 Conference
Details, schedule of presentations, a downloadable/reproducible flyer, and much more about the only conference for thyroid cancer survivors and its second major conference, scheduled for October 1999.

8/19/99 - Babies Born to Hypothyroid Mothers Have Lower I.Q.'s
Major news of New England Journal of Medicine research report showing that untreated hypothyroidism during pregnancy has adverse affects on a child's I.Q.

8/14/99 - Is Your Hypothyroidism UNDERtreated?
Find out if too high or low a TSH or a lack of T3 hormone is preventing you from feeling well

8/4/99 - Writing Your Way to Wellness With Thyroid Disease
How writing about your health and stress can actually lead to better overall health, with outlets and resources to get you started feeling better right now!

7/29/99 - Synthroid Manufacturer Settles with 37 States
Attorneys General in 37 states settle with Knoll, maker of Synthroid, over allegations of misleading marketing. Plus a special Attorney General contact list so you can contact your state's AG to insist on proper use of the settlement funds for thyroid patients!

7/12/99 - Online Drugstores for Thyroid Patients
The best online pharmacies, including those that allow you to buy thyroid hormones, antithyroid drugs and even Armour and Thyrolar online, as well as refill prescriptions online.

7/1/99 - Where to Ask Thyroid Questions?
An introduction to the new "Dear Mary: Thyroid Mailbag" feature, plus other great places to send questions.

6/19/99 - Thyroid Perils of Our Water & Food
Why won't the Air Force release information to EPA on perchlorate, a chemical in our food and water that can harm the thyroid?

6/10/99 - Hair Loss With Thyroid Disease
Some inside tips on how to overcome hair loss as a symptom or side effect of thyroid disease and its treatments.

5/17/99 - Living Well With Thyroid Disease
An overview of everything you need to know -- from drugs to doctors to news to alternative medicine to support -- to live well with thyroid disease.

5/2/99 - Mind-Body Wellness Resources
Mind-body techniques should be part of any thyroid patient's treatment, given our understanding of the relationship between stress and illness. Explore the resources to help you get mind and body in sync for optimal wellness.

4/27/99 - Fibromyalgia Aches and Pains as a "Symptom" of Hypothyroidism: A Look at the Theories of Dr. John Lowe
When muscle and joint aches and pains accompany hypothyroidism, are they a separate problem -- fibromyalgia -- or is fibromyalgia a symptom of the thyroid problem itself?

4/14/99 - Do Soy Foods Negatively Affect Your Thyroid?
A look at the negative impact soy products have on thyroid function. Special coverage of the thyroid dangers soy formula poses for infants.

4/5/99 - Thyroid Disease and Menopause
A look at the misdiagnosis and underdiagnosis of thyroid disease during menopause, worsening of thyroid symptoms during menopause, and the interrelationship between the two conditions in general.

3/15/99 - Personal Thyroid Stories from Readers
"Ringo Starr Lives Under My Chair" and two other first-person stories from people with subacute thyroiditis and Graves' disease.

3/08/99 - Thyroid Disease and Sexual Dysfunction
A look at the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in the U.S., and the link to undertreated or untreated hypothyroidism.
 

2/28/99 -Synthroid Under Siege -- Part II
A look at overpricing for Synthroid, and an update on the lawsuit.
 

2/24/99 -Synthroid Under Siege -- Part I
The manufacturer of the #1 thyroid medication in the U.S. is taking serious hits from a variety of fronts.
 

2/11/99 -T3 Drugs Improve Quality of Life!
Groundbreaking research reported 2/11/99 in the New England Journal discusses improved symptoms after taking T3 in some hypothyroid patients.

1/18/99 - Finding a New Doctor in 1999
Resources for finding the best doctor for you in 1999, including the Thyroid Top Doc Directory.

12/19/98 - Review of The Thyroid Sourcebook, Third Edition
A book review of the third edition of this popular patient handbook on thyroid disease. Includes a special Q&A Interview With the Author, M. Sara Rosenthal, that was conducted by Mary Shomon. Also includes Five Best Reader Questions for Sara, With Sara's Responses

 12/09/98 - Late Breaking Thyroid News!
Exciting new developments and breaking news on thyroid disease, hot off the press.

11/02/98 - Thyca '98 Conference Recap
A complete recap of the first-ever conference for thyroid cancer survivors, held in September, including opening remarks, speeches, and latest news.

 11/02/98 - Thyca '98 Conference Recap
A complete recap of the first-ever conference for thyroid cancer survivors, held in September, including opening remarks, speeches, and latest news.

 10/05/98 - Do Thyroid Patients Need a Flu Shot?
As flu season begins, a look at whether thyroid patients should consider getting a flu shot.

 09/23/98 - Caffeine, Calcium & the Thyroid
A look at the connection between too much caffeine, too little calcium and thyroid disease symptoms.

 08/26/98 - The Thyroid Disease Weight Loss Club is Working!
Mary Shomon, your Thyroid Guide, is losing a pound a week on the Weight Loss Club. Here's an update on how she's doing it!

 08/10/98- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Hypothyroidism
The latest findings re: the relationship between the painful wrist/forearm/hand nerve compression problem known as carpal tunnel syndrome and hypothyroidism.

 08/03/98 - Vitamins and Nutritional Supplements for Thyroid Disease
A look at the best information available on vitamins and nutritional supplements for thyroid disease.

 07/20/98 - Thyroid Cancer Conference
Thyca '98: The First Annual American Thyroid Cancer Survivors' Conference is scheduled for September of 1998.

07/13/98 - 07/27/98 - The Thyroid Zone! Summer Vacation Special!
This summer, take YOUR vacation at the Thyroid Zone, a hilarious and fun amusement park for people with thyroid disease.

07/06/98 - Recent Thyroid-Related News
A summary of the latest news you need to know.

06/22/98 - Taking on the Docs, Jerry Springer and More...
A selection of compelling letters from readers, including successful alternative treatment for Graves, a letter taking some docs to task and more!

 06/15/98 - Hypothyroidism Symptoms Checklist
A checklist of symptoms to use in getting or finetuning your hypothyroidism diagnosis.

 06/01/98- What's WRONG With These Doctors?
A look at doctors' insensitivities and hostilities to thyroid patients, and the reasons for this.

05/25/98 - The Thyroid Disease Weight Loss Club
An exciting new 8-week online support group for weight loss with hypothyroidism! Get on board!

 05/18/98 - Some New Thyroid Disease Websites to Visit
A review of some of the newest websites with info on thyroid disease.

 05/11/98 - What You Need to Know About Thyroid Disease
The starting place to discover everything about this site's various thyroid disease information and resources.

 05/04/98 - Weight Loss Success Stories
Read about Annie Terrano and Sherry Rider, two web site regulars who are very successfully losing weight -- in spite of their thyroid disease!

 04/27/98 - Synthroid, Armour and Thyrolar Update
New Order Form for Armour & Thyrolar info, latest on the Synthroid lawsuit, Can you get Mad Cow disease from Armour, refrigerating Thyrolar, and more...

 04/19/98- More on Top Docs, and How to Deal with Doctors
Thyroid patients' input on top doc qualities, how to find a top doc yourself, and how to succesfully deal with doctors.

 04/13/98- What Makes a Top Doc?
A look at what characteristics make a doctor a Top Doc, and an opportunity to contribute your own ideas.

 03/30/98- Is Your Thyroid Making You Exhausted?
A look at why you might still be tired, even if you're being treated for thyroid disease.

03/23/98- Things You Should Know About Your Thyroid Hormone
Latest information thyroid patients need regarding interactions of thyroid hormone with Zoloft and other antidepressants, calcium supplements, and more.

03/09/98- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Hyperthyroidism -- Part 3
Part 3 of a three-part, in-depth FAQ on hyperthyroidism and Graves' Disease.

 03/02/98- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Hyperthyroidism -- Part 2
Part 2 of a three-part, in-depth FAQ on hyperthyroidism and Graves' Disease.

 02/23/98- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Hyperthyroidism -- Part 1
Part 1 of a three-part, in-depth FAQ on hyperthyroidism and Graves' Disease.

 02/16/98- Thyroid Antibodies
A look at what it means to have thyroid antibodies, and whether or not this calls for treatment.

 02/9/98- Thyroid Disease and Men
A call for personal stories, accounts, questions and experiences from men with thyroid disease.

02/2/98- The Synthroid Settlement: Fair Payoff or Patient Ripoff? / Part 2
A look at whether the proposed payoff of less than $19 per patient in the Synthroid lawsuit is fair, and who's doing anything about it.

 01/27/98- The Synthroid Settlement: Fair Payoff or Patient Ripoff? / Part 1
A look at whether the proposed payoff of less than $19 per patient in the Synthroid lawsuit is fair, and who's doing anything about it.

 01/01/98- Thyroid Disease Jumble Puzzle
Have a little holiday thyroid fun solving this thyroid-related jumble puzzle with a secret message inside!

12/08/97- Depression and Thyroid Disease
A look at the relationship between depression and thyroid disease, and conventional and alternative treatments to help.

 11/24/97- The American Foundation of Thyroid Patients
A look at this growing, patient-founded and patient-oriented foundation and how you can get involved.

 11/17/97- Armour Thyroid and Thyrolar: Alternatives to Synthroid and the Other T4-Only Drugs
Information about Armour Thyroid and Thyrolar, their inactive ingredients, how to contact the manufacturer for more information, and how to find a doctor willing to prescribe them.

11/10/97- HELP! My TSH Is "Normal" But I Think I'm Hypothyroid
A look at your next steps -- including defining the "normal" range with your doc, antibody testing, TRH testing, and drugs beyond T4 therapy -- and where to find a doctor to help.

 11/02/97- Do Thyroid Patients Need a Flu Shot?
The best time for a flu shot in the US is through mid-November. If you haven't had your flu shot yet, here's some info to consider.

10/27/97- Who are the TOP DOCS?
Our readers share their favorite docs around the country, and a place where you can post your requests for a Top Doc in your area.

10/20/97- Finding the Best Health Information Online
When you want to surf for the best, most comprehensive and useful health and medical information online, here are the sites you absolutely should visit!

10/13/97 - Does Quitting Smoking Trigger Thyroid Disease?
A look at the surprising relationship between smoking, stopping smoking, and autoimmune thyroid disease -- including Hashimoto's and Graves'! Also discusses why a TSH test should be done BEFORE and AFTER quitting smoking.

 10/06/97 - Finding the Best Doctor Who's Right for YOU! -- Referral Sources
The BEST starting place to find a doctor to take care of your thyroid...AND YOU! Comprehensive list of resources for referrals to conventional endocrinologists, Barnes Foundation doctors, osteopaths, holistic doctors, naturopaths, and more!

9/29/97 - Losing Weight with Hypothyroidism
A look at the surprising reasons why it's so difficult to lose weight with hypothyroidism -- including metabolic set point, changes in brain chemistry, and insulin resistance. Also, an indepth look at insulin resistance and thyroid disease, how to lose weight and fight insulin resistance, and the essential books to help you in your fight.

9/22/97 - Welcome to NO-CARE '97: A Medical Conference Parody
A humorous peek at the conference program for the fictional National Organization and Conference And Retreat on Endocriminology (also known as "NO-CARE!"), brought to you by Thy-Roto-Rooter-Roxin^TM, the only drug an endocriminologist EVER should prescribe! See the exciting Conference Event Schedule, which features informative sessions such as "The One-Minute Endo," where docs learn how to reduce the annoying and time-wasting practice of actually talking to patients, and "They're Not Patients, They're Lab Values: Recognizing the Overriding Importance of the TSH Test Versus Patients' Unreliable Complaints!"

 9/15/97 - Thyroid Disease News You Can Use
Highlights from "Sticking Out Our Necks," the Thyroid Disease Newsletter, including info on how to be an empowered patient, who the top docs around the country are, summaries of major news, wonderful jokes about thyroid disease and the medical world to keep you laughing, people's heart-felt and wonderful personal stories and experiences, and information regarding the patient-doctor relationship.

9/8/97 - Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia and Autoimmune Thyroid Disease
With similar symptoms, and predominance among women 25-50, there are strong relationships among chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), fibromylagia syndrome (FMS) and autoimmune thyroid disease. This article explores the issue, looking at methods beyond standard TSH testing being used by leading CFS and FMS reasearchers to diagnose thyroid disease, and treatments -- including T3, nutritional, and other therapies -- being used.

 9/1/97 - Synthroid and other Levothyroxine Drugs Have Significant Stability and Potency Problems
Government finds significant stability, potency and dosage strength problems with levothyroxine sodium products such as Synthroid and other brandname and generic thyroid hormone drugs. Find out about the potential serious health consequences you face.

Special 9/1/97 - Dear Doctor: Why Do You Insist on Synthroid Instead of Armour? -- A Patient's Letter
A thyroid patient shares the eloquent letter she wrote her doctor when the doctor refused to prescribe Armour Thyroid, and instead insisted on prescribing Synthroid. A powerful letter that raises many unanswered questions!!

 8/25/97 - Mitral Valve Prolapse and Thyroid Disease
Even with your thyroid under control, do you still have fatigue, low tolerance for exercise, intestinal problems, and shortness of breath? You may have mitral valve prolapse (MVP) syndrome, a heart valve defect more prevalent in people with autoimmune thyroid disease.

8/18/97 - Latest News on the Synthroid Issue (...and, a Contest to Win Free Books!!)
Coverage of news regarding a settlement in progress on the Synthroid class action lawsuit.

8/11/97 - Thyroid Hormone Replacement and Foods, Supplements and Other Drugs -- A Q&A on Interactions
Answers key questions, including...Should you take your thyroid hormone with food or on an empty stomach? What about iodine or kelp? And what about brussels sprouts and other "goitrogenic foods? Vitamins with iron? Estrogen replacement or birth control pills while on thyroid hormone?

8/04/97 - Terminology You Need to Know
If terms like TSH, T4, AMA, and T3 sound confusing, then you need this article, which reviews some common thyroid terminology you'relikely to encounter.

7/28/97 - Six Questions You Ought to Ask Your Doctor...And How to Interpret the Answers
When hypothyroidism sets in after RAI or thyroidectomy, or you're diagnosed as hypothyroid due to Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, here are six critical questions you really should ask your doctor., and help interpreting your doctor's answers!

7/21/97 - Diagnosis: Hypothyroidism -- Answers to Some Common Questions
Questions a newly diagnosed person with hypothyroidism might -- and DID -- ask, along with answers, including information on how long it takes to feel better after starting treatment, long-term health risks, whether or not you'll get a goiter, fatigue and weight gain and more.

 07/14/97 - Candidiasis (Yeast Overgrowth) and Thyroid Disease
Symptoms such as irritable bowel, inability to lose weight, brain fog, and exhaustion often go along with thyroid disease, but they are also considered common symptoms of candidiasis (yeast overgrowth). In this article, I discuss my own experience with what was apparently a candida problem, and how I resolved it.

07/07/97 - Thyroid Disease and Pregnancy / Part Two
Part Two of a two-part article on thyroid disease and pregnancy looks at when a pregnant woman with thyroid disease should start receiving prenatal care, supplements/foods pregnant women on thyroid replacement hormone should avoid, and guidelines on how far apart to take prenatal vitamins with iron and thyroid hormone. Features an interview with the Thyroid Society's Sheldon Rubenfeld, M.D.

6/30/97 - Thyroid Disease and Pregnancy / Part One
Part One of a two-part article on thyroid disease and pregnancy explores the effects of thyroid disease on fertility, miscarriage risk, and how to ensure a healthy pregnancy for a mother-to-be with thyroid disease. Features an interview with the Thyroid Society's Sheldon Rubenfeld, M.D.

6/23/97 - Hypothyroidism and the Zone Way of Eating / Part Two
Part Two of a two-part look at hypothyroidism and the popular "Zone" way of eating discussed in Barry Sears' books Enter the Zone and Mastering the Zone.

 6/16/97 - Hypothyroidism and the Zone Way of Eating / Part One
PartOne of a two-part look at hypothyroidism and the popular "Zone" way of eating discussed in Barry Sears' books Enter the Zone and Mastering the Zone.

 6/09/97 - A Quick Look at Thyroid Hormone Replacement
Provides a review of T4, T4/T3, and T3 drugs and therapies for thyroid hormone replacement.

5/26/97 - Could it Be My Thyroid?
Looks at an excellent book, Could it Be My Thyroid, by Sheldon Rubenfeld, M.D. This great resource on thyroid disease has a range of valuable information, and some special features not found in other books on thyroid disease.

 5/19/97 - Books You Won't Want to Miss
Looks at some of the books I've found useful in my search for information about thyroid disease and the endocrine system. You'll also get an introduction to my Online Bookstore, my list of personal favorites that I think people with thyroid disease would find of interest.

5/12/97 - Welcome to the "Petite Papier" Club for Empowered Patients
A doctor once referred to women like me who come to appointments with notes and folders of information as the "petite papier" women -- women with the "little papers." This article talks about how to best deal with doctors, and yes, even share with them those petite papiers, to ensure the best possible relationship.

5/05/97 - What Exactly Are They Teaching in Medical School
"Hey doc, I'm constantly tired, I'm gaining weight, my skin's dry, my hands and feet are cold, and there's this gigantic lump on my neck..." "Hmmm, could be that you're depressed, stressed, or maybe PMSed!" A look at why a thyroid disease diagnosis seems so difficult, and some of the patient education efforts being made by the thyroid-related organizations.

4/28/97 - The Personal Account -- Thyroid Patients Tell Their Stories on the Web
Because it helps not to feel so alone with thyroid disease, this article takes a look at people's stories about their thyroid disease. You may recognize your own struggle in these honest, heartfelt accounts, and you'll get to know some very exceptional and courageous people better!

 4/21/97 - Synthroid in the News
A look at the most well-known drug to thyroid patients in the U.S. -- Synthroid^TM -- and its manufacturer, Knoll Pharmaceuticals, and how they made headlines with their decision to release the long-awaited results of a previously unpublished study that found Synthroid bioequivalent to other brands of levothyoxines.

4/14/97 - Symptoms, Symptoms, Symptoms
Are you trying to figure out whether or not your symptoms may be diagnosed as thyroid disease? Are you wondering whether or not your symptoms are because of your already diagnosed thyroid disease? This article helps you figure it out.

 4/07/97 - Getting Down to Thyroid Basics
A good starting point if you suspect you have thyroid disease. This article takes a look at excellent sites that help get the right diagnosis from your doctor. And, we'll also explore where on the Web to start out if you're looking for more information on thyroid disease.