Hi everyone,
I have a quick question. I've read online that an easy way to check for iodine deficiency is to apply iodine to your skin. On 1 website it stated that if the iodine loses it's colour before 4 hours, it means you're iodine deficient, on another it says 6 hours and yet another says 24 hours. Which opinion is correct?
Thanks

I think it is saying that if it hasn't lost its color in 24 hours your iodine is fine with N0 deficiency.
IF it loses its color within 4 to 6 you are really deficient and anything in between would be moderately deficient.

Thanks for the answer. Do you mean to say that if it has completely lost it's colour then one is iodine deficient? Also, where would you recommend that I apply the iodine? Can it applied underneath clothing or will the clothes rub it off?

I would put it on my wrist. I am not sure. I have been wanting to try it myself.
If it completely loses its color within a few hours I would think that means you are deficient.
After that probably just a little deficient

May I ask why the concern for iodine deficiency?

I think I've developed a goiter. I'm having trouble breathing when I exert myself and swallowing sometimes.

You need to get to the hospital then I would think

Quote:

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Originally Posted by afghanhound101

i think i've developed a goiter. i'm having trouble breathing when i exert myself and swallowing sometimes.

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If you already have a goitre then iodine deficiency is not something you should be thinking of NOW. Also any thyroid swelling is a goitre. Only "colloid" goitres are caused by iodine deficiency.

The goitre needs to be fully investigated which would involve thyroid function tests, an ultra sound and an FNAC. The difficulty in breathing suggests theere has been a sudden increase in size which could be ominous.

Urgent appointment with the doctor is advisable.