Connect with others who understand.

  • Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  • Real advice from people who’ve been there
  • People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
Powered By
Real members of MyBCTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Seattle, WA

Discovered mine isn't working anymore & have started thyroid meds. It may have happened regardless of treatment as a couple of my sisters also have thyroid issues w/ menapuause. Interestingly, some of the effects of a low functioning thyroid are very similar to chemo side effects- lack of energy, neuropathy, sleep disturbances, weight gain- all of which I've experienced. Hopefully, I'll will begin to notice a positive difference soon!

January 13, 2013
 · 
Reactions

Answer Summary

Members shared their experiences with thyroid dysfunction after radiation treatment, with many confirming that radiation damaged or destroyed... Read more

Members shared their experiences with thyroid dysfunction after radiation treatment, with many confirming that radiation damaged or destroyed their thyroid function, leading to lifelong medication like Synthroid or levothyroxine. Several members strongly recommended seeing an endocrinologist who specializes in treating cancer patients for proper monitoring and dosage adjustment, with one member describing how their thyroid had to be surgically removed after developing Hashimoto's disease following radiation. A recurring theme was frustration with persistent symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and temperature sensitivity even on medication, alongside gratitude for being alive while acknowledging the challenging physical and emotional toll of treatment side effects on daily life and self-confidence.

A MyBCTeam Member

My thyroid does not function at all even before chemo. Please go to an endrocinlogist who sees cancer patients and have them monitor it.

January 17, 2013
A MyBCTeam Member

Yes, @A MyBCTeam Member, I actually had to have my thyroid removed 1 year and 6 months post radiation...but I started having problems prior to removal. I was very tired, and just wasn't feeling well; upon examination my GP found my thyroid glands to be enlarged. She referred me to an ENT and he sent me for a biopsy which was inconclusive, so the next step was surgical removal. During surgery they found that I had Hashimoto's Disease and had to remove my thyroid. No one has told me that it was directly or indirectly related to the 35 radiation treatments. But I do feel better now, as long as I have my T3, T4 and TSH levels checked regularly to make sure that everything stays in check. Hugs, Lisa

January 14, 2013 (edited)
A MyBCTeam Member

Ughh. I can relate to issues . I was just informed I do need to have a biopsy. Nodule very suspicious based on ultrasound. Biopsy is the 16th. My ENT said because of me having radiation, they see problems with the thyroid at times. 🤷‍♀️

January 8, 2024
A MyBCTeam Member

I am taking synthoid for about 2 1/2 months. I feel worse! My TSH level is next to nothing. Sometimes it's NOT the thyroid that is the problem.

August 12, 2019
A MyBCTeam Member

If your radiation "tattoos" are up past your collarbone on your neck, then chances are your thyroid was radiated. It is entirely possible, and happens more frequently with oral cancer patients. I would do like @A MyBCTeam Member said and see an endocrinologist who treats cancer patients

January 21, 2013 (edited)

Related Questions

View All
A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Antigo, WI

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Casper, WY

Continue with Facebook
Continue with Google
By joining, you accept our Terms of Use, and acknowledge our collection, sharing, and use of your data in accordance with our Health Data and Privacy policies.
Already a member? Log In