Precautions after radionuclide 131I treatment for hyperthyroidism

  In order to obtain better results after radionuclide 131I treatment for hyperthyroidism, patients must pay attention to the following aspects: 1, eat only 2 hours after taking 131I orally on an empty stomach, so as not to affect the absorption of 131I.  2. After taking 131I, the efficacy of the treatment usually begins to appear only after 4 weeks. Iodine, bromine and anti-thyroid drugs should not be used before clinical symptoms improve, so as not to affect the reabsorption of 131I and reduce the efficacy. A low iodine diet for 1 to 3 months after treatment is not recommended. Foods with high iodine content such as seaweed and nori should not be consumed.  3. Within one week after 131I treatment, patients should preferably rest in bed, avoid strenuous activities and mental stimulation, and prevent infection.  4. After receiving 131I treatment, early symptoms of radioactive thyroiditis such as local itching and pain in the neck may occur, so in the first week after treatment, avoid touching or squeezing the thyroid gland. Generally, no special treatment is needed, and the symptoms can be gradually relieved after a few days or a week.  5. In addition, some gastrointestinal symptoms may appear, such as anorexia, nausea, vomiting, etc. A few symptoms such as itching of the skin, dizziness and weakness may appear, which can generally be relieved after 2 to 3 days of symptomatic treatment.