PEOPLE’S PHARMACY

WEARING SURGICAL MASK CAN HELP

Q: I take immune-suppressing drugs for multiple sclerosis. During flu season, I wear a face mask to protect myself from viruses.

I also wear one whenever I travel. I felt a little awkward the first time I wore a mask on an airplane, but I soon realized that it was my “superpower.” People seem to avoid me, which is just fine. I also bring hand sanitizer to wipe down the tray table, armrests and anything else that I will end up touching.

A: We applaud your prudence. Millions of people are now taking immune-suppressing drugs for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, colitis and other serious autoimmune conditions. This may leave them more vulnerable to infection.

A level three surgical mask is as effective as a disposable respirator (N95) against viral transmission ( JAMA, Sept. 3, 2019). Hand-washing is also considered protective.

Q: I had my thyroid removed as a result of Graves’ disease many years ago. I take Synthroid, and my doctor tells me my TSH levels are normal. Nevertheless, I suffer from chronic, low-grade fatigue, depression and lethargy. I think I heard on your radio show that there is a different treatment. Could you tell me more?

A: Dr. Antonio Bianco is an endocrinologist who has studied this challenge. He reports that some people do not efficiently convert T4 (levothyroxine, aka Synthroid) to the active form of thyroid hormone, T3 (triiodothyronine). They may feel better if they also take some T3. You can learn more about this and other strategies in our eGuide to Thyroid Hormones. This online resource may be found in the Health eGuide section of www. PeoplesPharmacy.com.