Hypothyroidism is a common side effect of RAI for hyperthyroidism and always seen after RAI for thyroid cancer. Radioactive Iodine (Radioiodine) Therapy for Thyroid Cancer Short-term side effects of RAI treatment may include: Neck tenderness and swelling. This treatment removes the thyroid gland with surgery (called thyroidectomy). These medicines are given for months or even years to lower the levels of thyroid hormone. Radioactive Iodine Treatment for Papillary Thyroid Cancer Radioactive iodine (RAI).
Side effects of the RAI treatment may include: A burning sensation or tenderness in the neck area. Nausea and upset stomach (and rarely, vomiting) Swelling and tenderness of the salivary glands.
Radioactive Iodine (RAI) ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors
RAI treatment is primarily beneficial only when the patient has undergone a total thyroidectomy (complete removal of the thyroid gland) in the surgery for their follicular thyroid cancer.
