Sometimes people email the Rare/Orphan Diseases site with a list of their symptoms, concerned they may have some rare disorder, especially if their doctors have not been able to diagnose them. A number of these people have subsequently found Mary Shomon's About.com Thyroid site an eye-opener (and a relief). What seemed before to be unconnected symptoms--fatigue, shakiness, mood swings, bowel problems--turned out to be due to problems with the function of the thyroid gland.
Easy to understand
Shomon, a thyroid patient herself, is a nationally-known thyroid patient advocate and has written several books dealing with thyroid disease. In 2005 HarperCollins Publishers released her book, Living Well with Graves' Disease and Hyperthyroidism, a comprehensive guide to dealing with an overactive thyroid and its effects on the body. If you are worried about having to read through pages of medicalese, though, you needn't be. Shomon's book is thorough but written in a way that's easy to understand, and any medical terms used are explained clearly. Shomon also gives examples and real-life stories to illustrate symptoms and treatments.Alternative therapies included
If you're concerned about treatment for hyperthyroidism being presented from only the Western medicine (allopathic) point of view, you'll be pleased to know that Shomon offers many treatment options besides medication or radioactive iodine. She presents the pros and cons of everything, providing the reader with a balanced view and enough information to make thoughtful decisions.Answers for almost any question
Shomon's focus is on the adult with hyperthyroidism, but she does discuss its symptoms and treatments in infants, children, the elderly, and pregnant women. You can find answers for just about any question you might have about hyperthyroidism in the book, but if not, Shomon provides a large appendix of resources such as books, Web sites, organizations and advocacy groups, and health care professionals.All in all, Living Well With Graves' Disease and Hyperthyroidism provides a comprehensive yet easy-to-read guide to the sometimes confusing world of thyroid disease. If you are dealing with hyperthyroidism--or think you might be--this book will prove to be a valuable resource for you throughout all the stages of diagnosis, treatment, and living with the disease.
