Should I increase or decrease iodine dose?

[Guest guest]

I had hyperthyroidism (probably Graves disease but not confirmed by my

endocrinologist). This was a year ago and it caused heart failure and atrial

fibrillation. After a few nasty experiences with beta blockers and such I

stopped taking the heart drugs and weaned myself off the metamazole gradually

using iodine, motherwort, bugleweed and lemon balm. I stopped the herbs about 6

months ago and my T4 readings the past 8 months have been below normal, although

T3 and TSH have been in the normal range for about 6 months. I gradually

increased the 5% Lugols to 8 drops and have been on 8 drops till my last test in

January, with T4 still too low. So I am not sure if I should back off on the

lugol's or increase it at this point. I can't afford to get more tests for a

few months. I also noticed that my blood pressure has gone from 140/100 to

180/130 and I have suddenly put on 10lbs (after being quite underweight for 3

years) but do not appear to have fluid retention. I decided to up the lugols to

10 drops but it does not seem to have made a difference. Can anyone advise me

please?