@Wildfire: That is what they're trying to figure out, though it sounds like the suspicions mostly are hyperthyroidism

@Wildfire: I don't know what old means. lmao
I think one of my oldest celebrity crushes is in his late 70's.

@Anarchist Beauty: lol... I don't either, tbh! ... but I'm older than you are :3 :P

@Kory: I got spanked as a kid... with hands, a belt, wooden spoons on occasion...
@Another Movie Addict: Oh ouch! That's really old school!


@TeaTales: Yes, that's normal - the blood tests are to check your thyroid hormonal levels: TSH, T3, T4, antibody levels (in case it's autoimmune), and they're probably running a complete metabolic panel (CMP) on you too if I had to guess. They're trying to see how your body is reacting to the thyroid and how some of your other systems may or may not be playing a role. This is a completely new diagnosis for you, isn't it?

@TeaTales: swollen extremities can be a symptom of thyroidism. As is brain fog, which I know you've complained about before. Weight issues are a common symptom - for hyperthyroidism it's usually losing weight/not able to gain weight (hypothyroidism is usually the opposite). Muscle weakness and aches, sleep issues, fatigue, "having a frog in your throat" feeling, inability to focus or remember things, body temperature regulation issues, changes in hair or skin, eye issues - puffy or dry eyes, usually- ... etc. The list goes on... can all be symptoms of thyroid issues.

A simple blood test can get some basic readings and help determine if your hormonal levels are out of whack. A physical exam of your throat is usually done and yes, the radiation test to get a good look at what's going on inside the gland. Treatments usually include monitoring thyroid hormone levels (blood tests) and drugs to help control thyroid function. Some doctors still seem to want to remove the thyroid (in part, or in whole) in more cases than is absolutely necessary, but I'd advise against that if possible (although I'm not a doctor; I have been dealing with thyroid issues a long time and have a lot of friends who have thyroid issues as well. I can elaborate on this suggestion if you'd like)

THIS and THIS are links to thyroid info that should help you start understanding what's going on and what it means. There's a lot of information available on thyroid issues on both of these sites. :3 Also, if you're really feeling brain-fog, bring a trusted and intelligent friend or family member with you to the appointment(s) to help you remember what the doctor says and help you process it all, and to advocate for you if necessary... or at least a notepad and take notes! I have had some doctor appointments when I was so symptomatic I couldn't remember anything that was discussed or even have an intelligent conversation with the doctor... and that sucks.

@Purpsy: Hi Purpsy. How are you today? What's going on? Did you go for a walk?

@Purpsy: oh no... that's not a good feeling. I understand, and hope things don't get too bad for you.
I'm doing ok so far. I slept. I went for a walk. Now, I'm multi-tasking trying to get some books posted for sale, take care of some papers that need attention, and the dogs are being weird... I think at least one of them wants to go out... so brb.

@Purpsy: one of them was sitting nearby just "talking" to me... the other keeps rolling over and showing me her belly whenever I walk by (quite unusual for her), and they are both wanting to eat grass.

@Wildfire: brain fog I however also have as a symptom of my late term brain damage rom the strokes I got back in 2015 But thank you for explaining, I will check out the links. As for bringing someone; my family is 200 km away and s far only my youngest older brother knows of it as my mother, who is mentally unstable, would be hysterical and blame this on herself just like he did when I had my brain strokes. But usually I always bring a notebook and something to draw on/with, with me. Just got a second letter for when the radioactive stuff is.. that is done on an other hospital the 18th