Can you be around someone who has had radioactive iodine?

Keep Your Distance

Here are some ways to minimize radiation risks to other people (and pets) after you have had RAI treatment: Stay at least six feet away from other people, including members of the public, family members, and co-workers, for three to 11 days.

Can you be around dogs after radioactive iodine?

There is no need for concern about effects on your family, pets, etc., but it is still prudent to avoid close, prolonged contact for the first week. The advice to patients who are going home depends on whether they were treated for hyperthyroidism or thyroid cancer and on how much radioactive iodine was administered.

Can I use my cell phone after radioactive iodine?

You will have to stay in your room for at least 1 to 2 hours after your treatment. You can use your cell phone or watch TV to help pass the time. You won’t be able to have visitors during this time. You may not have any side effects from the treatment right after you get it, but you may have side effects later.

How long do you have to stay isolated after radioactive iodine?

You are also required to self isolate for 7 days after your radioiodine treatment in order to minimise the risk of contracting COVID-19 whilst there is still a large amount of radioactivity in your body. A small proportion of people with COVID-19 may become very unwell and require admission to hospital.

What happens if you touch a radioactive person?

People who have been exposed to high doses can also have skin damage ranging from itching to burns, blisters and ulcers. They may also have temporary hair loss. After the initial symptoms there may be a brief period of improvement.

When can I eat regular food after radioactive iodine?

Follow a low-iodine diet 2 weeks before to 2 days after receiving your RAI Treatment. Therefore, you may go back to eating as usual 2 days after you ingest the RAI Treatment capsule(s).

Can I prepare food after radioactive iodine treatment?

For 2 hours after you swallow the capsule: Do not eat any solid foods. An empty stomach helps your body absorb the radioactive iodine. Drink only water. For 3 days after you swallow the capsule: Follow your low-iodine diet.

What can you not do after radioactive iodine treatment?

First two days:
  1. Do not share cups, glasses, plates or eating utensils. Wash items promptly after using. …
  2. Do not share towels or washcloths.
  3. Flush the toilet twice and rinse the sink and tub after use.
  4. Wash your towels, bed linens, underwear, and any clothing stained with urine or sweat.

How will I feel after radioactive iodine?

A swollen or tender neck and feeling flushed

Some people may have a feeling of tightness or swelling in their neck for a few days after treatment. This is more common if you still had a large part of your thyroid gland when you have radioactive iodine treatment. Some people also feel flushed.

Why do you have to isolate after radioactive iodine?

Your body will give off radiation for some time after you get RAI therapy. Depending on the dose of radioiodine used and where you are being treated, you might need to be in the hospital for a few days after treatment, staying in a special isolation room to prevent others from being exposed to radiation.

Can radiation be washed off?

You can remove radioactive materials that are on the body of others or you can remove radioactive materials if they are on your body (self-decontamination). You can wash your hands, face, and parts of your body that were uncovered at a sink or faucet.

Will I gain weight after radioactive iodine treatment?

They undergo treated with antithyroid drugs or with medication plus radioactive iodine treatment (RAI). Following treatment for hyperthyroidism, patients will observe a steady weight gain despite not changes in their eating or exercise.

Does radioactive iodine shorten your life?

Quality of life is worse at 6-10 years after radioactive iodine therapy of Graves’ disease compared with treatment with antithyroid drugs or surgery. Quality of life is worse at 6-10 years after radioactive iodine therapy of Graves’ disease compared with treatment with antithyroid drugs or surgery.