Not long ago, I was consulted by a girl who had just returned to the Engadine Valley from a trip to Italy. Her big, shiny, bulging and staring eyes showed unmistakable signs of an overactive thyroid. She explained that her doctor had practically taken her apart without finding anything wrong, although she complained of frequently feeling very ill and weak.
When staying at the seaside this ‘sick person without a sickness’ could sleep for twenty-four hours at a time if no one woke her up. Long sleeping periods are a typical effect of the iodine contained in sea air on those suffering from a thyroid condition. Some patients become very active, vivacious and highly strung, others feel an unnatural desire and need for sleep. It is essential for such people to be aware of what the problem is, for it will enable them to adjust to their environment and to take the appropriate remedial measures.
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