Some of you might find this interesting. The MMWR (Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report) from the week of April 8 had a story titled Thyrotoxicosis After Consumption of Dietary Supplements Purchased Through the Internet. Basically, a woman was admitted to the hospital confused and unable to recognize family members and repeating herself. She was found to have quite elevated blood levels of thyroxine and triiodothyronine. It turned out that she had bought a "diet pill" that contained 25 mcg triiodothyronine only two weeks earlier and had doubled her dosage a week earlier! In the two weeks, she had taken 25
Howdy, I happened to run across this list and thought I would susbscribe. I apologize if you see this twice due to a mixup in my e-mail address. I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism last fall and started on daily thyroxine pills. It had been obvious for some time that something was wrong, but it went undiagnosed until a blood test came back suspicious. In retrospect, it should have been obvious from the dry skin and the being cold unless in a very warm room, but I get the feeling that these days doctors are more likely to rely too much
----- Original Message ----- From: "Cathy Brown" <[log in to unmask]>
> My question is this.does Synthroid relieve the Wilsons symptoms? I am so full of > questions and eagerness to learn how to deal with the health problems.
Since there is already a Diagnosis, let's take that as a given for now.. Thyroid treatment, depending on the symptoms, is an escalating scale. Your dose of 50 mcgs is still not the recommended starting dose, but that does not mean to fault your Dr. It is likely that your dose is still being titrated until you reach the optimum for your case. You
On Mon, 3 Mar 2003 06:49:14 -0500, Tammie Denman <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
"Tests taken at my >endo's office (Dr. Michael Carella in Lansing Mich) were as follows: >Free T 0.9 range: 0.7-1.9 >TSH 0.2 range: 0.5-4.7 >Anti-microsomal antibody <10 range: 0-35 >Anti-throglobulin antibody <20 range: 0-40 > >On Jan. 17 I started on 5 mg. of Tapazole; 3 tablets taken two times >daily. Some of the symptoms have abated somewhat. On Feb. 22 I ended up >at the Alma hospital emergency room "
> I'm not sure if it is the thyroid, but my blood sugar was much different than before. I had always been on the high side of the normal range and now I'm prediabetic. Also, my systolic blood pressure which has been quite consistent has suddenly become much more volatile over the last couple of years. The first time I ever had a blood systolic blood pressure reading more than 135 was when I started going mildly hypothermic when exposed to cool temperatures a couple of years ago. Now about half the time
Did you have a problem with cold and has it gotten better after taking thyroid hormones? I think my highest temperature in the last couple of years is about 97 F. Just walking a block outside in cool weather with a good coat is enough to bring it down to between 94 and 95. One cold morning (28 degrees F) I had to run out to a site about 15 miles from my office. I put on my warmest coat and got in the pickup and left. I also had a thermometer in my pocket. About 2 miles from town
I just realized that this never posted, so I'm trying again.
On 5/11/16 8:52 AM, Eric Johnson wrote: > Did you have a problem with cold and has it gotten better after taking thyroid hormones?
I'm a menopausal woman, so I would love to feel cold. :-) That has never been an issue for me. Even on the coldest nights, the bedroom window is at least slightly open. Fortunately my husband prefers the fresh air, and is fine bundled under lots of covers -- doubled up on his side.
With my first post, I suppose an introduction is appropriate.
I'm an elder living in Western Massachusetts, a technology journalist turned health book writer turned blog essayist. Links on request by private email.
I consider myself a prisoner of the Medicare Plan D arrangement. The option of not paying for the insurance is unacceptable; at my age no one knows when/whether catastrophic illness will strike.
Copying the group on my reply, in case someone else finds the info helpful.
I'm not on Medicare but went thru something similar with my insurance provider. I ended up on Nature-throid, which is a prescription natural dessicated thyroid -- like Armour. A couple of years ago, Armour changed the fillers they were using and I found (as did a few others) that the effectiveness of the medicine was reduced. At the same time, my insurance company moved Armour to the Tier 4, which meant they paid nothing and I got a little discount for 90 days supply over 30.
The Charity, Thyroid Patient Advocacy www.tpa-uk.org.uk is in the process of creating a World Register of Counterexamples to levothyroxine-only (T4) therapy. This short survey is applicable only to those who continued to suffer symptoms on T4-only therapy, and who found those symptoms were mitigated or disappeared once they started using a T3 hormone containing product , whether synthetic or natural desiccated thyroid hormone.
I searched the archives and couldn't find any discussion on very low cortisol. Can anyone recommend what questions I need to be asking, what books I need to be reading?
I got my saliva, blood, and urine tests back, and I'm trying to educate myself before seeing the doctor next week. Noteworthy:
i am pooja, i have thyroid problem from last only year,by dated of 6-9-09 my tsh level is 8.6, i have started 50 mg,my next tsh test level 7.32 dated 25-11-09,now my tsh level very low 0.008 i have taken 75 mg,i have taken treatment form inmas,timarpur, what is reason for that problem?
I'd go back to 50 mg and then check it. I'd rather be a little high than too low.
-----Original Message----- From: Thyroid Discussion Group [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of ronak Sent: Wednesday, March 31, 2010 5:55 AM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: thyroid
i am pooja, i have thyroid problem from last only year,by dated of 6-9-09 my tsh level is 8.6, i have started 50 mg,my next tsh test level 7.32 dated 25-11-09,now my tsh level very low 0.008 i have taken 75 mg,i have taken treatment form inmas,timarpur, what is reason for that problem?
How are you feeling with the 75 mcg? Will your doctor listen to how you are feeling? Is your doctor also testing for Free T3? If you are efficiently using the type of thyroid medicine you are receiving and if you have new painful symptoms, you might want to get a lower dosage. My doctor let me take one tablet with the close amount of thyroid I needed and then cut a 25 mcg tablet to get the additional amount that helped me get through each day. Would your doctor be willing to let you try that (50 mcg +
Posting here in hope that someone has knowledge of beta blockers and effect on thyroid. History of tachycardia, pulse goes up to 114 even after a bowl of hot soup at dinnertime. (Endo had told me, hot soup is actually a vasodilator!) All becomes very much more pronounced if my steroids are too low, Addisons Disease, OR if my thyroid levels are off.
Is this group active? I haven't been getting any posts.
I have been hypothyroid since the radio-iodine treatment of my Graves Disease 22 years ago. The myth of the "one little pill a day" for the rest of your life is such a euphemism. I don't understand why, if according to the surgeon who removed one of my parathyroid glands, I essentially have no thyroid gland left, why the doctors can not stabilize me with thyroid replacement.
I've just joined this list, so I don't really know who's out there or who will respond. I just wanted some advice and perhaps some comfort.
After having a nodule for 10 years, biopsied and scanned regularly and showing nothing irregular until this June, I have just had a thyroidectomy and two small (3mm and 4mm) points of papillary thyroid cancer were found. They were encapsulated, and the surgeon didn't see any lymph node problems, so none were removed (though he wouldn't have known about the pathology until after the operation).
How extensive was the thyroidectomy? Were you given thyroid medication after the thyroidectomy? Was the slightly elevated white blood cell count explained?
I remember reading a research article a few years ago which said that after surgery, which is stressful, when the cortisol is up, some people have more difficulty converting T4 to T3, so the TSH would look "normal" but the body acts hypothyroid. Low blood sugar might happen at the same time with elevated cortisol.
Dear Colleagues We would like to notify yourself and the members of the forum that the Specialist Collection has just published its annual evidence update on hyperthyroidism, available at <x-excid://E2AA0000/jmp:http://www.library.nhs.uk/ENT/ViewResource.aspx?resID=324634&tabID=289&catID=7712>http://www.library.nhs.uk/ENT/ViewResource.aspx?resID=324634&tabID=289&catID=7712 The update presents the latest systematic reviews and therapeutic uncertainties. We would be grateful if you could circulate this to your members as a useful update and welcome any feedback you may like to provide.
First off, I still have not located a doctor in town who will prescribe Armour -- and of course now I can get the last of the RX I have filled in this town. I was trying to get it filled before the RX is up (I have 4 refills due before 10/17/9 and I am paying private pay). Maybe getting filled with 2 grains instead of the 1 (I take 3 1/2 and cut the 1/2)
Armour Thyroid recently went thru a reformulation that is causing many people to be undertreated. Not only that, but there is a shortage of the base ingredients, meaning that even if you had a doctor who would write for Armour, you may not get it. People are even having trouble finding *any* natural dessicated Thyroid.
I've been on 37.5 of Synthroid for a year now. My TSH doubled recently and my endo put me on 50 of Synthroid. I had a cardiology appt two weeks later and my heart rate was between 119 and 130 range. The cardiologist was alarmed and immediately sent me for a stress test and further cardiac testing.
In a message dated 8/4/2009 10:54:02 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
Hi:
I've been on 37.5 of Synthroid for a year now. My TSH doubled recently and my endo put me on 50 of Synthroid. I had a cardiology appt two weeks later and my heart rate was between 119 and 130 range. The cardiologist was alarmed and immediately sent me for a stress test and further cardiac testing. >>>>>>>>> IMHO (In my humble opinion), something else is wrong. In a situation like this, I would suspect Adrenal Insufficiency or another metabolic problem.
"I've been on 37.5 of Synthroid for a year now. My TSH doubled recently and my endo put me on 50 of Synthroid. I had a cardiology appt two weeks later and my heart rate was between 119 and 130 range."
Lee, I had a similar problem. I was on 100 mcg of Synthroid for years when I began having heart palpitations and TSH dropped out of normal range to 0.15. My doctor lowered the dose to 75 mcg. This got rid of the palpitations, but now my TSH has been creeping up. TSH is still in the normal range
I'm not sure what to do now. My endocrinologist seems to be wavering in her thoughts as to what to do to get my TSH back down to where I felt good. My cardiologist is saying that I cannot take the 50 mcg due to the racing heart. Of course, my primary care doc just want to refer me out. But at this point, I'm losing faith in my endo.
Hello, For quite some time, I have been taking 75 mcg of Synthroid 7 days a week. A month ago, I started taking 75 mcg of Synthroid for 6 days and 88 mcg on the 7th day of the week. Does anyone have a similar schedule? How long might I expect to wait to notice any changes in how I feel? Thanks, Libby [log in to unmask]
Is anyone familiar with excessive sweating as a symptom of Hashimoto's? I developed Hashimoto's a little more than seven years ago, and ever since then, even a slight uptick in temperature makes me break out in sweat. Now that it's summer, I can't walk down the street without getting totally drenched.
I've treated my hypothyroidism over time with Synthroid (137 MCG), T3 (100 MCG) and now Armour (4.5 grains). My T3 and T4 are both average to high (but normal for an otherwise healthy young man in his 20s). I stress that the sweating accompanied the onset of other symptoms
Thought I would post this, it has been a long time coming!
I just found the BEST way for me to replace thyroid. At first I took all synthroid. Then six months later, endo added Cytomel, just a bit, felt much better, I could think. then switched to Armour thyroid, loved it. but heart started sinus tach occasionally due to the ups and downs of the shorter acting T3. So . Weaned down slightly with every instance of tach, endo told me to drop armour dose every time I had an episode, just take a little less. So I
WOW I'm glad to hear you are feeling good. It does take a toll on our body and mind. I have had a constant struggle for the past 3.5 years and am still struggling. Just switched to Armour in January and am still having issues, as my endo wants me to be between 3-5 on TSH for pregnancy reasons, where as I feel better being a little hypo, but i decided to compromise for my babies, the things we do for kids, right. well anyways i had never thought of combining the armour and sythroid, did you endo agree to
I have a small calcification also. The doc has just recommended watching it. Every year I have an Ultrasound and so far it has not changed in size, so Doc isn't concerned. I'm not sure if I should be concerned or not.
Nancy Kam wrote: > I just had a CT Scan and it found ... > Incidental right thyroid calcification > > Has anyone had this found and what came of it...my doctor cannot see me > regarding these results for a couple weeks so I'm obviously curious... > > Thanks, Nancy
In a message dated 3/14/2009 9:48:21 A.M. US Eastern Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
My brother also has gout with no thyroid problem so could be totally independent. Thanks again -- great advice -- dave
>>>> Dave, glad to help!
Be careful about docs who say that your brother has no thyroid problem, though.
"Thyroid problem" is the real operative, here. Most doctors don't think that there is a "thyroid problem" until the TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) is ridiculously high. This is obviously wrong because someone could have no pituitary, no thyroid function, no TSH, but have big "thyroid problems."
In a message dated 3/12/2009 8:07:14 A.M. US Eastern Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
Doc Don -- how about gout? >>>>> In the doctors' section in "Solved: The Riddle of Illness" Dr. Langer, MD says that Hypothyroidism causes elevated uric acid-the underlying pathology in gout.
The University of Maryland Medical Center web site says, "Gout (maybe related to hypothyroidism). Hypothyroidism and gout often coexist and may have biologic mechanisms in common."
Thanks Doc Don ... I am not going to do anything dramatic. I have never had any symtoms of hypothyroidism other than the blood test results -- and its balanced now, so I plan on going slow on it. My brother also has gout with no thyroid problem so could be totally independent.
I have a sense the shorter list would be those things the thyroid does NOT affect.
-----Original Message----- From: Thyroid Discussion Group [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of diane gaul Sent: Monday, March 09, 2009 4:20 PM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: does anyone know if thyroid issues can affect the joints?
In a message dated 3/11/2009 9:53:44 P.M. US Eastern Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
I have a sense the shorter list would be those things the thyroid does NOT affect.>>>> Excellent point! Virtually every living cell in your body must have a bit of thyroid hormone hooked into its receptors to get "permission" to burn calories into energy for its own use.
Not Doc Don here and not a Dr.. a cold body enhances effects of gout.. crystals likely to form between joints.. see for yourself how heat over affected area relieves pain.
also in hypothyroidism there is accumulation of a substance called mucin in tissues causing edema.. this is most noticeable in persons showing carpal tunnel syndrome due to nerve compression.
Posting here, because some may also have thyroid/adrenal failure and have some of the same problems I must manage~ please let me know what you think. I have Addison's Disease, and take replacement steroids for that condition. Zero adrenal function. I also have mild hypothyroidism.
After endo visit, and getting some input, I am thinking through the tachycardia episodes of this past year. And the difficulties with tapering. Very important for me to avoid this problem, due to mitral valve regurgitation, and also antiphospholipid antibodies (clot risk!).
At the moment, I have been fortunate perhaps to find a dose that works, a small Armour dose in AM along with just a tiny bit of T4 twice a week, this seems to be stabilizing, will know in another week what labs say. and how I feel!
Hello Andre and Listers, You're lucky that your country has available slow-release T3. I know in some countries, that is impossible to get. In the U.S. it is difficult, expensive and not covered by insurance. Fewer pharmacies are doing any compounding. Where I live in central Missouri, near a city close to 100,000, there was only one pharmacy that did compounding and they stopped doing so. There is a compounding pharmacy in St. Louis and I might consider ordering from them.
Medaus in USA does T3's. They will ship to any address including different countries, and I found that it wasn't that expensive.
My philosophy: Go out of the way to get the right thing. Previously I used to courier it from USA, which made it expensive; now I'm lucky to have found a doctor that's dynamic enough to create his own compound pharmacy, but I still have to get it posted to me as he's an 8 hour return trip from my place.
In a message dated 1/10/2009 12:23:04 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
I'd be curious to hear from others who are using slow release T3. And if most are using a T4 product at the same time. Best regards, Susan >>>>> I've been on sustained release liothyronine (SRT3) for years. I feel better now than I did in my 30's and 40's (I'm in my 60's); my lipid profile is much better than it was 14 years ago; and I never did well for an extended time on the same dose T4, Armour, or Thyrolar. I have been on essentially
If my memory serves me well, I believe your math logic and conclusions are correct. Surely there must be a table if you type it into google, though.
Interestingly, about 3 weeks ago I switched from Armour to Synthroid. I had been on 2.5 alternating with 2.0 grains of Armour (and in the past much higher doses) and my doc put me on 1.25 of synthroid. My prior labs had shown free T3 levels that were on the high side so I was ready to see if this helped my blood pressure which was 170/80
Hello. I believe that conversion tables can be found on the Armour Thyroid website. I have been taking 1.25grains of Naturethroid plus 25mcg Unithroid, and my blood pressure has also been running very high - quite often 160 over 90 - so I need to bring it down. I also feel somewhat anxious on this dose. So starting tomorrow I am going to reduce the Naturethroid to 1 grain and raise the Unithroid to 37mcg. I hope this reduction in the t-3 componant will help to bring my blood pressure down some. Peggy **************New year...new news. Be the first to
As I don't live in USA, we don't have Amour. I'm actually GLAD because I use a T4 pill and a T3 pill - and therefore I only worry about the dosage once at the beginning of taking them. The T4 I take is in the form of Eltroxin, and the T3 is a slow-release T3 that a compound pharmacy makes up. You take it exactly every 12 hours. There's no fine-tweaking of 1.2 grains of this, and 3/4 grains of that. And it's an organic (not synthetic) product. Perhaps those of you who are having trouble fine-tuning
I hope your post has received a blizzard of replies, but in case not I am replying personally. I was very moved by your plea; I had Graves Disease and remember what it was like, although I have been in remission for years.
Your note seems to say you were already diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, yet were apparently not treated for it, which is hard for me to understand. It puzzles me that a doctor would diagnose you but not treat you. How did this happen? Nearly all of the symptoms you list, anxiety, palpitations, feeling hot, swollen thyroid,
I would just like to add the email KM sent. I was given NO choice regarding Graves, and my thyroid was destroyed using radiation pills. Subsequently, I now have to take not only the Thyroid medication, but also extra hormones, amino acids and more vitamins than I can swallow in one gulp - just to feel about 70% as well as I used to in the old days. So please use that as the very very last resort. Most doctors don't know what they're talking about, so please investigate further if any doctor tells you: "After radiation all
I have had quite a go-round with sinus tachycardia episodes. I may have posted a bit earlier this year, it has been very frustrating to try and figure out the cause. We have come to the conclusion that thyroid hormone (I take Armour) has caused my heart to become very sensitive to its own adrenaline/autonomic response. And with Addisons and postmenopausal situation (ovarian failure), I have more than the average predilection to autonomic response!
In terms of gentler on the system and easier on the heart, I'm not sure - but here are a couple of suggestions:
I wish I could find my index card with factors that facilitate conversion of T4 to T3 - but I remember a few things, one is adequate copper and the other is adequate ferritin levels. From my own experience, I needed lower dose Armour when I started taking iron. My doctor had read about ferritin levels and conversion. A quick google search suggests that low zinc levels may play a part as
My name is Khalilah Murarsheed. I had so you're video about you're graves disease on you tube today. I am 28 years old female living in Chicago. I've been suffering for five years with graves disease. I have hyperthyroidism disease an overactive thyroid also. I have been to fifteen doctors and 10 hospital emergency rooms through out the past five years of my life. No one has really helped me for a long time. I get so depressed everyday because i have to live with this horrible disease. I also have a anxiety disorder and panic attacks. I can't sleep
I have new autoimmune issues to address (antibodies have popped up to positivity for SSA (Ro), SSB (La), anticardiolipin IgM, etc., and recently low positive for anti U1 RNP).
On July 2, went to ER with pleurisy-like inflammation. (This just after the anti RNP positivity...) Having Addison's disease, I had to double steroids just for the inflammation/infection. Still problems with the pleuritic pain, and rheumatologist raised dose to 10 mg. extra prednisone (above my replacement dose for addison's). Then secondary infection, antibiotic very helpful. Steroids still up, for 6 days. Now tapering them. See questions I asked endo
I was recently diagnosed with Stage 4 endometriosis and have been taking thyroid replacements at 175 mcg/day. I had heard that having low thyroid levels or being hyperthoid causes infertility. If this is the case could I be a prime target for infertility. as I am currently seekin an infertility dr. to discuss IVF treatment to try and concieve. I can get you my levels, as I don't have them right now, but I do know they are low.
I have recently been plagued with the thought of switching to armour. Due to the possibility of feeling better than I have in about 2 years. I had a total thyroid and partial parathyroid removal. I had a goiter, but was told I was hypothyroid. I had cancer and underwent radioiodine therapy as well. I felt immediately better after my surgery, and my level was at 75, before I took my radioiodine treatment. I now have, for the past 2.5 years feelt the way I felt before my surgery. very BAD Dr. says that it has nothing to do with
I posted awhile back, that adding an aspirin a day caused me to have noticeable hyperthyroid symptoms almost immediately--within two days this affect was seen. Then, staying with it, my body balanced out within a week or two. Endo states this was due to protein binding of ASA, it will bind with great affiinity to the thyroid receptors, freeing up more thyroid hormone.
Thanks for many your contribution(s) to Thyroid. I have been noticing more lapses of the rules, so it's my job to say this.
Please snip out the old message and do not send it back whole to the group. Your e-mail program may try to send the whole message you are responding to - please don't let it. If you need help learning to snip, please read the note below my signature at the bottom of this message.*
I am a 75 year old -male- retiree, In May 2003 my thyroid gland was totally removed- succesfully-, due to a bening tumor. Since the, my (Lady) Endocrinologist has been chenging my Synthroid dosis- up or down- in order to reach the minimum TSH range of .3 . For the last three (3) months I have been tanking Synthroid dosis of 137 -mcg from Monday thru Saturday and on Sunday 150 mcg. My last TSH lab test result- Special Chemistry on June 12, 2008 was 0.064 ulU/ML with Normal Range 0.350 5.50
I have no thyroid function, and I've learnt NOT to rely on the lab results. Each person is different. I for instance thrive on a high dosage of T3. You have to ask yourself what dosage makes you feel good and stick to that.
Warm regards,
Andre
IANTD Southern Africa Andre Shirley +27 82 650 2294 Don Shirley +27 82 650 2279 www.iantd.co.za
In a message dated 6/14/2008 5:10:57 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
My question is what is the best minimum range for patients with the thyroid gland removed? >>>>> Thyroid removed or thyroid present, the best range for the patient is the one that gives optimal health. This varies a lot between patients.
TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) is released from the Pituitary gland as a signal for the thyroid to provide more thyroid hormone activity. When the thyroid hormone activity increases, the TSH should be suppressed, to some extent. Sometimes, if thyroid hormones are too high, the TSH will be
Sorry, really tired today...I need to rephrase my last post....Synthroid did not make me sicker, BEING ON ONLY Synthroid was not sufficient for me...and I became sicker.? (Is sicker a word?? :-)
Cheryl
-----Original Message----- From: Marcos A. Andino <[log in to unmask]> To: [log in to unmask] Sent: Sat, 14 Jun 2008 8:58 am Subject: TSH-3rd GENERATION - INQUIRY
Hi there, I am a mother of 11 children. One of my children has Down syndrome (DS). We have successfully been able to lower his thyroid from 6.5 down to 3.3 by controlling his diet. My daughter and I are in the process of writing a book about DS - you can read more about that here - http://www.gotdownsyndrome.net/Book/whatyoucandobook.html . I am writing today to ask about iodine and how much to take. Please let me know what is an acceptable dose for someone that has a goiter.
In a message dated 6/11/2008 9:20:37 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
Hi there, I am a mother of 11 children. One of my children has Down syndrome (DS). We have successfully been able to lower his thyroid from 6.5 down to 3.3 by controlling his diet. My daughter and I are in the process of writing a book about DS - you can read more about that here - http://www.gotdownsyndrome.net/Book/whatyoucandobook.html . I am writing today to ask about iodine and how much to take. Please let me know what is an acceptable dose for someone that has a goiter.
I am a 57 YO female with Wolfe-Parkinson-White (WPW) Syndrome. Until I discovered last December that I was hypothyroid, the WPW had manifested as sporadic bouts of tachycardia (rapid heart beat) that I had managed for 50+ years without medication or ablation. My primary care physician (PCP) started me on 88 mcg of Levothyroxine (L). After 2 weeks, the tachycardia had increased in both frequency and duration, so I reducedto 44 mcg. After a few weeks at 44, the tachycardia returned. I cut back to 25 mcg. However, under pressure from my PCP to increase my dosage, I tried going
While I do not have Wolfe-Parkinson-White Syndrome-- I do get tachycardia even before I started taking Levothyroxine. That's about 15yrs ago. I used to manage that with Atenolol 50mg plus Levothyroxine. Now I find Betaxolol (Kerlone) 20mgs. to be more appropriate and long lasting and without the usual beta blocker side effects.
WPW Syndrome is an anomaly in the heart's electrical conduction system. Between the upper chamber (atrium) and the lower chamber (ventricles) there exist an electrical connection (fibers) that transmit the impulse fired by what is called SA node (sino-atrial) down to the lower chambers. In WPW,
Has anyone tried any alternative medicines for Hashimoto's?
What were the effects?
Thanks, Kelli
Kelli
I would be interested in this as well. My blood test showed high antibody count (662) which they said was indicative of Hashimoto's. I had not other hypothyroid symptoms other than a marginally high TSH (5.66). There are a few things on the Internet that state that Hashimoto's can be somewhat reduced, but the results of any studies that were cited were not at all definitive. Conventional wisdom is that there is no cure. My take on it is that since the "solution" that seems
This is an interesting topic. I'd like to share my experience with an alternative type of medical care! In 1996, I went to my chiropractor and she assessed there was a problem with my thyroid (hypothalamus, pituitary). My complaints were constipation, back pain and terrible insomnia. My heart rate at that time was 60 at most but I thought that might be from being a big exerciser. Anyway, she prescribed a high dose iodine supplement. On my 2nd day of taking it, I felt extremely anxious and ill and my heart rate was a bit
My daughter was treated with radioactive idodine to treat her Graves disease. She had the treatment about 4 weeks ago. She is suffering from extreme depression and mood swings now. She won't leave her room, cries all the time. It is really beginning to scare me. She says she doesn't care about anything or anyone. She will be 21 next week. She had always been the most cheerful, happy, active girl. She was going to college and going on dates. Now she's saying things like "nothing matters, I don't care if I live or die" Is this a normal reaction
The radioactive iodine is slowing down her thyroid production. She should be monitored routinely to see if her thyroid needs supplementation. By all means her symptoms are probably 99% due to the reduction in thyroid function. Call the doc TODAY and get an appointment IMMEDIATELY! IMO, the doctor has been very negligent in not monitoring this more closely and not telling you what to look for.
Hi Cindy I was treated with RAI for Graves in 2004. When my Graves started, in addition to all the physical symptoms, I experienced EXTREME anxiety, panic attacks and depression. I thought I was losing my mind. It never occurred to me that it could be thyroid related.
Ativan helped tremendously until my thyroid finally started to slow down.
In a message dated 5/15/2008 11:28:55 A.M. US Eastern Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
My daughter was treated with radioactive idodine to treat her Graves disease. She had the treatment about 4 weeks ago. She is suffering from extreme depression and mood swings now. >>>> Tragically, the most common treatment I have seen for Grave's Disease in the USA is burn out the person's thyroid with Radioactive Iodine and let them languor in Hypothyroidism for the rest of their lives.
Holly asked about splitting the Armour Dose. I take 180mg daily. I used the take it all in the morning until it got backordered and I couldn't get the 180mg tablets. Since 90's were available that's what I got. My Dr suggested I try 1 in the morning and 1 in afternoon to see if that didn't give me better energy later in the day. So, far it's working great, I'm feeling much, much better and not getting that late afternoon sleepies.
"Unless the gland is all gone-- it's better to leave the pituitary do its control through the loop. I used to take T3 and I do it once in the morning only. The half life is something like hrs. and this fits more to our daily rhythm."
I appreciate the information, and would like my pituitary to do the regulating, with my remaining endogenous function, to be sure. Are you suggesting, then, that I take 60 mg. Armour all at once in the morning? (See the above quote, the half life is something like
First taking Armour thyroid in this fashion: 7:30 AM 30 mg Armour 12:30 PM 30 mg. Armour
...I found it easy to remember, after meals. I took them ontime. However, we find the T3 fluctuations to be a cause of atrial premature beats, Especially as the second dose rises (and the first is still in my system).
What you are trying to avoid is having having too much thyroid in the bloodstream-- in such a way that it is you now trying to control the levels instead of the pituitary. I have long followed what Dr. Barnes and Dr. Alford were saying to start low and slow. Once you've reached a level where symptoms are almost gone-- you can maintain that dose. Unless the gland is all gone-- it's better to leave the pituitary do its control through the loop. I used to take T3 and I do it once
My Ob/gyn thought my thyroid felt large and asked if I would make an appt with my primary care dr. to check into it further. He did as requested and I had bloodwork and an ultrasound done. The results of the bloodwork were normal and the ultrasound showed three nodules. The one of concern to the dr. is over a cm at 1.6cm. on the left side,the other two are very small and on the right side. I also had a thyroid uptake test checked at 3 and 24 hours which also came back normal. These are the only points
Usually hot nodules are multiple. Solitary nodules if they are quite big are given more attention. Since you mentioned you are taking birth control pills-- they do raise the body's reqmt for thyroid hormone. This is due to the binding effect of estrogen on circulating T4 hormone. What could be happening in your case is due to this binding effect your thyroid is called more to squeeze out more juice. This in effect could cause the thyroid to enlarge in the case of hypothyroidism. The Fine Needle Biopsy settles the whole case.
You write that you are having spells of aggravation, and attributing to thyroid being high. Thought I would add my two cents!
Have you been tested in the past for adrenal fatigue or adrenal failure? This usually involves some sort of Cortisol level, a screening, then an ACTH stimulation test may be pursued involving baseline cortisol level (8 AM draw when levels would be highest), followed by the ACTH injection, followed by another cortisol draw to note adrenal response. This will help to sort primary from secondary causes of insufficiency, and help to determine whether your
I have been treated for Graves' disease for five years and have suddenly become hypo. Also, my naturopath tells me that test results I got at diagnosis indicate I have Hashimoto's as well as Graves'.
I've been on the yahoo Graves' site and found a wealth of information in the people there and am very grateful for what help they have given. Their intelligence and commitment to helping thyroid patients is commendable.
Just returned from an annual visit to my doctor. He has some interesting things again...
I am usually on active T3 - 52.7mcg x twice daily, and Eltroxin (T4) of .5g once a day. Even though I feel good, I've noticed that I was getting the dreaded "middle age spread" - even though I was eating and exercising as per usual.
I am concerned about periods of severe muscle pain, systemic and throughout my body. lasts for 5-6 days in a row, then subsides for a while only to flare up again. I would like to know if this kind of problem indicates I am not on proper thyroid dose? Or does it sometimes occur even though the correct replacement is given? (I take Armour Thyroid, happy with it so far.) I don't seem to have any hypoT symptoms otherwise.
It's been a long, long time since I communicated with the group, and as I was sitting at the keyboard with a thermometer in my mouth (and it can take me 15 minutes to get a decent temperature reading), I wanted to share something with the group.? I apologize in advance for the length of the post.
I am getting ready for an airflight to Arizona from NY. Long trip, one stopover in Detroit.
Does high altitude in the jet, and/or high altitude in the Rockies, etc., if we drive up, cause hyperthyroidism? Somewhere I read this, but don't know where.
I have been on several long distance flights (11 and 14 hrs) and have not had that affect. However, I know when I go skiing that I do have hypER symptoms, usually on the 2nd and remaining days. I think, for me, the altitude has to be longer term than a flight.
But like most things in life and hypothyroidism, your mileage may vary. It could very well be that some people are affected. If you are at all concerned, you might want to discuss with your doctor.
In a message dated 2/14/2008 1:31:42 A.M. US Eastern Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
Does high altitude in the jet, and/or high altitude in the Rockies, etc., if we drive up, cause hyperthyroidism? Somewhere I read this, but don't know where.>>>>> Holly,
It is less of a "cause" than of a risk factor. Any kind of stress can have an adverse effect on your Hypothalamic - Pituitary - Adrenal / Thyroid axis. This doesn't mean that it will, just that it will call this system into action, and pre-existing problems can be exacerbated.
"Another suggestion would be to stick with the Armour and take your 2nd dose later in the day. I usually take my second dose of Armour at 4:30 in the afternoon. You could even take it at 7:30pm, but if you're used to taking it with meals, then I would continue to do that. For me, it has never caused insomnia even when I've taken it in the evening."
At this point, after 2 years of hating Synthroid alone, then 2 months of loving added Cytomel to the Synthroid, followed by a 4 year experiment on Armour Thyroid (which my dr. encouraged me to try and I absolutely love it!)..
. I find myself in a bind. My heart is 'complaining' at the fluctuation of T3 in my system. my doses are taken as follows:
>. I find myself in a bind. My heart is 'complaining' at the fluctuation of >T3 in my system. my doses are taken as follows: > >7:30 AM 30 mg. Armour (along with my steroids for Addisons) > >12:30 PM 30 mg. Armour (after lunch, with my steroids as well)
IT is good that your endo is suggesting time release T3. I haven't tried it yet, but have certainly considered doing so. As far as finding it, I live in a medium-sized city (90,000) in Missouri and there is at least one pharmacy that will
Hello list, I have spent the better part of the week reading the archives. So much info, so little time LOL. Anyhow, my story is that I've had Hashi's Hypothyroid for about 8 years (sorry, the memory was one of the first to go, but thats pretty close). While I'm one of the lucky few who has responded pretty well to Synthroid; it's at least tolorable, but not optimal.
----- Original Message ----- From: "L McCalmont" <[log in to unmask]> To: <[log in to unmask]> . > > I suppose I could buy gallons of distilled to bathe in, but that could get > pretty costly fast.
Hello list, I have spent the better part of the week reading the archives. So much info, so little time LOL. Anyhow, my story is that I've had Hashis Hypothyroid for about 8 years (sorry, the memory was one of the first to go, but thats pretty close). While I'm one of the lucky few who has responded pretty well to Synthroid; I'm at least tolorable, but not optimal.
I have been found to have low thyroid binding globulin. Can anyone tell me the implications of this? Searching on it does not bring much up-I read that often Total T3 would run a bit low, and that the body will adjust for it to maintain homeostasis. Then, we don't go by T3 labs as much, is that right? What about TSH, is that an accurate 'picture' of our thyroid hormone needs in low TBG, or is it falsely raised?
In a message dated 1/6/2008 4:34:39 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
I have been found to have low thyroid binding globulin. Can anyone tell me the implications of this?>>>> Low Thyroxin Binding Globulins suggests that you have a greater percent of T4 (and T3) unbound or "free." When thyroid hormones are bound to TBG, they are not free to perform their metabolic functions.
I started T3 only in the beginning of July. I had two and a half months of success (lots of energy, felt great) which came to a sudden end and fatigue set in. At that time I was on 100 mcg. of T3 per day. I have since tried to increase without any benefit. It looks like my adrenals may be the culprit. Before T3 only I had high cortisol all of the time (never went down) and now I have cortisol in the normal range, except for the noon time when the cortisol drops way down below range. I
Does I-131 radiation treatment cause other problems for the body? Once your thyroid has been removed, does your body go to underactive functions if you were overactive before?
In a message dated 11/2/2007 10:54:38 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
Does I-131 radiation treatment cause other problems for the body? >>>> I certainly feel that it does. It is difficult to believe that a dose of radioactive iodine large enough to kill the gland is not going to wreak havoc elsewhere in the system. There is no minimum dose of radiation that does not cause some damage to the cells exposed.
I have hashimoto's and at present don't take any medication. I am wondering if this is damaging or harmful to me? I do a lot of qi gong and meditation, and when I have blood tests my TSH works more than it needs to (between 6-21) to not produce enough T3 (under the 4 mark) or enough T4 (between 7 and 9).
At 06:58 AM 10/3/2007, you wrote: >----- Original Message ----- From: "Holly Jagger" <[log in to unmask]> >> >>Is anyone on Coumadin?
I did remember, from my pharmacology, that coumadin has quite a few significant interactions with other meds. I just looked up coumadin in my long term care prescribing guide and found that it is potentiated ( made stronger) by quite a few things including 'thyroid drugs".
Is anyone on Coumadin? I may have to start it, due to the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies. Wondering if there are any problems with thyroid hormone and warfarin therapy. Also, with Addison's Disease, I take Cortef/prednisone and florinef. Are there any interactions to be concerned about?
Your doctor's concern was a valid one. By definition, generic drugs are allowed a +/- 20% effectiveness in relation to the original non-generic drug, while this may not be a big deal with generic ibuprofen, with hormone replacements that is a hauge potential difference.
If this is the brand which the mail order pharmacy will be sending consistantly, then you and your doctor should, with testing, be able to verify what you dosage for this brand should be. If this pharmacy buys whatever is cheapest when they are restocking and do not maintain a consistent brand then you and
> TSH 5.18 > Free T3 Normal > Free T4 Normal > Antibodies 662
In a word, YIKES.
Doc Don and Chuck:
First, I thank both of you for your help.
My appointment is a week from today and I am trying to get as much information as I can. After mowing about a half acre of my lawn with a push mower and feeling just great, it is difficult for me to relate to YIKES. But hey, if I am sick, I am sick and want to do whatever I need.
You may find that t4 supplimentation is inadequate. Some of us don't seem to take off that ion (?)?to turn the t4 into t3, which is what the body needs.? Armour or a timed released t3 is the only thyroid product that works for many.? Good luck!
-----Original Message----- From: David Brown (dbrown) <[log in to unmask]> To: [log in to unmask] Sent: Tue, 25 Sep 2007 6:05 pm Subject: A Couple More Question on Treatment Options
In a message dated 9/26/2007 8:51:42 A.M. US Eastern Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
* If my T4 is in the normal range, why should I supplement it? I am not arguing with you -- just want to understand a bit what is going on. >>>>> Far more important than the Lab's opinion on the quantity of a chemical (T4) in your blood is your health. If you are Hypothyroid, you should be treated. If not, there is no treatment for this necessary. <<<<<
----- Original Message ----- From: "David Brown (dbrown)" <[log in to unmask]>
Doc Don and Chuck:
David,
I'm not Doc Don nor Chuck..
<SNIP> * If my T4 is in the normal range, why should I supplement it? I am not arguing with you -- just want to understand a bit what is going on.<SNIP>
Some Drs. try to bring the T4 in the high range of Normal-- some slightly higher in order to have an optimal range of T3. These two-- while they go up or down proportionately, they do have diferences in magnitude. Also, these hormone levels vary even during the
I would like to get advice on options for treating subclinical hypothyroiditus. Here is my situation as far as bloodwork is concerned:
TSH 5.18 Free T3 Normal Free T4 Normal Antibodies 662
I am not sure what the 662 means or what scale this is, but the doctor herself said that this was quite positive and she wanted to initiate some treatment in terms of a very conservative hormone supplement. She said there was nothing you can do about the antibodies.
What that antibodies number means is that you have shown a positive result for the thyroid antibodies which indicate that your hypothyroidism is Hashimoto's Thyroiditis. What that means for you is that your thyroid numbers may fluctuate over time as your thyroid goes through periods when it is under more or less of an attack by the antibodies your body has developed against it.
I will set up an appointment with my doc in a couple weeks, but she called me today to let me know that my blood test came back and my TSH is still up around 5.8 or so. Also, the thyroid antibodies test came out quite positive. She is recommending a conservative treatment, and at this point it seems the only reasonable option.
I am new to this listerv. I have been fighting with Hypothyroidism and Hashimotos for eight years; actually that is when they caught it. Now at the age of 38, I am getting worse. I am gaining weight again, extremely swollen feet, panic attacks, dizziness, my brain feels foggy and my words sometimes are not in the correct order or I just can't think of how to put what I want into words, feeling faint and my sodium is always low. I have had several tests done by my PCP and he tells me just to relax.
I was surprised and so sorry to hear about Skipper Beer's death......he was a smart, kind and articulate person. He contributed greatly to this list and to various individuals on it. May he rest in peace and may his children find the strength to forgive him and go on living.
My best to all of us who struggle with thyroid and depression issues. My brother committed suicide in 2002. Susan
I know that we should not copy in complete posts to the list, but I never got a response to these inquiries and my next visit with the doc is coming up, so I am going to try again to see if I can get some advice as to what to seek in my next blood test. Thanks -- dave
In a message dated 9/2/2007 9:18:12 P.M. US Eastern Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
... I have no other symptoms that I can detect. >>>>> It is not unusual for a Hypothyroid person to be unaware of signs and symptoms of Hypothyroidism. Hypothyroid symptoms develop slowly, and people often see excess fatigue and sleeping as a condition of life instead of a symptom. In addition, if thyroid function decreases 10%, brain function decreases by the same amount; and self observation is the first faculty to be weakened. I know, I was Hypothyroid for many years and struggled to find out why
Thank you so much for the help. This really helped. I had my blood test today and requested in writing that they do TSH (which was all they did last time), free T3, free T4 and thyroid antibodies (that might be too general, but perhaps they will figure it out). My doc was not there -- I just went in early and gave them some blood.
I've been diagnosed hypothyroid for 6+ years. I was on T4 only for 5 years. I had repeated sinus infections, insomnia, anxiety, and severe 'allergic' type reactions. I could not and still cannot walk into buildings or go outside without going severely foggy and near faint. This occurred since being diagnosed hypothyroid.
I changed Docs and am paying out of pocket to hopefully get some help. She immediately put me on iodine tabs and progesterone. The iodine has helped but the progesterone troches just made me feel like I was on fire. So I went back to progesterone cream and am still using the iodine. She wants me to do a 24 hour urine sample for hormones. Has anyone tried this - does it work? Before I put another $240 out I want to know if it is worth it.
I need a little help on what to ask my doctor for.
History -- about 2.5 months ago I had a routine blood test that came up with a TSH of 5.98; a repeat test a few days later got a 5.66. I understand that the normal range used to be 0.4 to 6.0, but it has recently been reduced to 0.3 to 3.0. I have no other symptoms that I can detect.
Hi all. Some questions for the group. Any input would be appreciated.
3 years ago, after complications from surgery, I suddenly became hyperthyroid with pretty severe and debilitating symptoms. I was eventually diagnosed with Graves, received radioactive iodine, and have been euthyroid and symptom free ever since. (I do have a few thyroid nodules which have been biopsied and are being watched).
In a message dated 8/22/2007 9:33:24 PM Eastern Daylight Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
I have an appointment with an endo (a new doctor) on Tuesday, who I'm sure will order additional bloodwork. Any thoughts?? I've been doing some reading about Hashimoto's (my aunt and grandmother both had this). Can a person have Graves and then progress to Hashimoto's?? >>>>>> Actually, both Graves and Hashimoto's are both Autoimmune Diseases; and the overlap is probably more common than the isolation. <<<<<<
In your post last 8/14/07 you mentioned Skipper.. I quote "When Skipper (a late member of this esteemed group) first told me about it, I thought it was unlikely, at best. "
I'm feeling awful...and while hopeful that my meeting with the new endo goes well....I'm nervous, too. I've been to a few that....well, we didn't see eye to eye! Finding a doctor that I relate to AND is in my insurance network has not been the easiest thing.
When the T3 in your blood gets too low, Deiodinase Enzymes (the proteins that convert T4 into T3) in the brain and heart get activated inside those cells.
So, you can get HIGH T3 inside the brain, because you are LOW on T3 in the blood. So, you really might feel like you were "Hyper" again. Insomnia which is seen in Hyperthyroidism, is also seen in Hypothyroidism, and even frank Manic symptoms have been reported.
In a message dated 8/25/2007 3:16:20 PM Eastern Daylight Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
Doc Don,
In your post last 8/14/07 you mentioned Skipper. I quote "When Skipper (a late member of this esteemed group) first told me about it, I thought it was unlikely, at best. "
In a message dated 8/25/2007 3:16:21 PM Eastern Daylight Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
If this new doctor is not using the newer thyroid reference ranges, in your opinion, would that be an indication to keep looking? Regards, Cheryl >>>>> If your new doctor pays more attention to ANYTHING, than to you; I'd get a new doc, ASAP,
You would be much more likely to be helped, if you doc ignored the labs than if he ignored the History and Examination.
In a message dated 8/26/2007 4:34:44 AM Eastern Daylight Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
Hey, Doc!? Do you have any cite(s) for that?? I would love to show it/them to some of the smarmy docs around here for whom (like those everywhere else, I suppose) lab #'s are the gold standard. >>>> Sure. Look in Braverman's textbook under Hypothyroidism and Psychiatric Disorders. That chapter says something like: Although Depression and Lethargy are common presentations of Hypothyroidism; Insomnia, Anxiety, and frank Mania have been reported.
I wanted to add to Doc Don's comments about Adrenal Fatigue. I was diagnosed with this condition about 2 years ago. I bought a copy of Dr. James Wilson's Book, Adrenal Fatigue, the 21st Century Stress Syndrome. Dr. Wilson also has a website. I have tried to change my lifestyle and eating habits according to Dr. Wilson's recommendations. I see a naturopath who also treats Wilson's syndrome and have been on timed released T-3 for a couple years now. I have several food allergies and have managed to avoid eating many of the trigger foods which also contribute
In a message dated 8/19/2007 7:40:06 PM Eastern Daylight Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
I take supplements available thru Dr. Wilson's site, his Adrenal Rebuilder formula is pork based, the supplements my ND prescribed where bovine which I am allergic to. >>>>> Adrenal Fatigue is surprisingly common in Hypothyroidism (one more thing that they forgot to teach me in Medical School). Hallmark of the combination is that the thyroid replacement either doesn't work at all, or there are thyroid overdose symptoms on a very low dose of thyroid replacement.
A. If you are using the DAILY DIGEST option to receive these Thyroid-related messages, please remember to CHANGE the Subject: line on your message if you reply. Your Subject: line should tell us the main topic(s) of your message, please.
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I have been on sustained release T3 for nearly six weeks (and off T4 for nine weeks). I had a positive start and have seen a significant decrease in fatigue, but I have had some stalls along the way--one week at 45 mcg per day and now 105 mcg per day. If I take more, my temp and pulse go up. Have you seen this with patients? My doc is saying that most people go up and down quite easily (Hmmm). The other thing is that I have seen improvements but I am hoping for better. My fibromyalgia pain is
In a message dated 8/15/2007 9:07:51 PM Eastern Daylight Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
I had a positive start and have seen a significant decrease in fatigue, but I have had some stalls along the way--one week at 45 mcg per day and now 105 mcg per day. If I take more, my temp and pulse go up. Have you seen this with patients? >>>>> I wish I had seen this a few times before; unfortunately, I have lost count of how many times I have seen this kind of thing in my patients.
I had a bad parathyroid removed in May. Three months later I still have all the symptoms of parathyroidism: fatigue, depression, memory and focus, digestive problems, etc. No weight gain or loss.
Thyroid labs within normal ranges except a single nodule biopsy showed Hashimoto's disease and a slight goiter.
TSH = 0.9 (normal is 0.4 - 6.0), T4 = 6.5 (normal is 4.5 - 12.0), T-uptake = 30%, Free Thyroxine Index = 1.95, Free T3 = 354 (normal range is 230-420), Free T4 = 1.0 ng/dL, Thyroglobulin antibodies is at upper limit of 20 IU/ml, and TPO AB is less
However, I notice my body temperature has dropped since I started the meds. I consistently run 97.2 instead of the normal 98.6.
I have notice a few posts about Wilson's protocol having something to do with body temperature.
Hi Alex, As I understand it, with the Wilson's protocol, when the body is able to convert T4 to active hormone T3 and the cells are able to function normally, the body's level of metabolism is increased and body temperature rises. In the hypometabolic state of hypothyroidism, due to an improperly functioning thyroid gland or faulty conversion of T4 to active T3
T3 Therapy: An Option When T4 Isn’t Working for You
I’m writing this article so that you can have information which might be of benefit to you. I was going to wait until I had been on the protocol for a year, but, what the heck, I thought I’d get the information out there so that others might read it and evaluate it for themselves. A brief history about me: I’m a clinical laboratory scientist. I had been taking T4 medication for 6 years and just got worse, tried Armour and couldn’t tolerate it (side effects of jitteriness, high BP,
Why did they remove it? I have Hashimotos and they put me on thyroid medication and just keep and eye on my blood work.
Sharon
-----Original Message----- From: Thyroid Discussion Group [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Debbie Sent: Monday, July 09, 2007 4:36 PM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: Hashimotos
I was diagnoised May 18th with Hashimotos and had my thyoid removed. Does anyone have more info on Hashimotos.
Has anyone on this list done any experimentatioin with vitamins?
I have been reading up on them after having been warned by someone on the list that overdosing it can be as bad as not getting enough. I have subclinical hypothyroidism where to this point the only "symptom" is a blood test TSH of about 6. I am not under any treatment right now, and it will be three months before I get another blood test.
Yes, that condition of elevated TSH without any symptoms is called Sub-clinical Hypothyroidism. Depending on what signs your Dr. detects-- some might trial treat it or not. As you have noted that you feel as normal as can be-- then, I assume your Dr. and you are on the logical track to "wait and see". But, on the other hand, it is not only thyroid symptoms that manifests in one's system if ever there is such an insufficiency. There are collateral symptoms for what the insufficiency produces like insufficient circulation in other parts of the body-- in particular
Thank you for your helpful response to my request for information.
As for other symptoms -- very few. I am 63 and have the normal hair loss (actually a bit less) for my family. My hair is still mostly non-grey, no dry or thin skin or any of those things. I do a lot of physical work -- mostly hand mowing my yard (which is huge), garden, yard work, and when the weather does not allow that, then I have a stationary bicycle. I do not believe that I get fatigued any more than normal. No weight
NOTE TO THYROID: It appears I managed to distribute the previous message twice. I'm sorry. I'm experimenting with two different methods to handle these moderation duties - and I did it wrong. My mistake. I'll try to do better. <sigh>
Dear Dave,
>* > Why would I need to understand my T3 and T4 levels? would this >in any way change the treatment?
Highly recommend that you do some reading on the subject, as well as asking here. There are several good sites that will give you a better idea of your situation. Getting the T3 and T4 (Total and Free) will give you important information about your thyroid status.
If you T3 and T4 numbers are "normal" and you are feeling well, then waiting and retesting might be okay. If however, your TSH is high and your T3 and T4 levels are low, then treatment might be the wisest choice, as there are many insidious ways that Thyroid can affect our whole
Thank you for your helpful response to my request for information.
As for other symptoms -- very few. I am 63 and have the normal hair loss (actually a bit less) for my family. My hair is still mostly non-grey, no dry or thin skin or any of those things. I do a lot of physical work -- mostly hand mowing my yard (which is huge), garden, yard work, and when the weather does not allow that, then I have a stationary bicycle. I do not believe that I get fatigued any more than normal. No weight
If there is one thing I have learned throughout my trials with thyroid disease -- nothing but problems can be gained by "wait and see" while your body may be starving for the correct hormones on a cellular level. There is nothing better t han having a tsh that any doct or off the shelf will treat -- it is when you are on the edges with that usless test that you and your loved ones that may also have it truly suffer.
>Simple enough -- blood test come up with a TSH of 5.98; a repeat test a few days later got a 5.66.
Welcome.
You seem to have an elevation in your TSH. This can mean different things, depending. TSH is your bodies way of asking your thyroid gland to produce more thyroid hormone.
Your quick re-test confirmed that the lab did not fail - did not mix your blood up with somebody elses blood, etc. Distrusting labs is something you may need to consider, in the long run.
Dear Friends Thank you so much for the many replies. I realize I am not alone, which helps immensely. What a wonderful way to communicate. I have received so many helpful thoughts and suggestions. Thank you again to all of you who took the time to respond.
Welcome, Judy - I really enjoyed your post. I also have a medical/nursing background. Currently I work in hospice where quality of life is the big focus. Sounds like changing to the Wilson's protocol has made all the difference in improving your life quality!!
My situation is somewhat different. I've never tried the Wilson's Protocol but am considering doing so and bought the book several years ago. My Hashimotos was diagnosed in 1997 and I did well on Armour for many years. Now, 10 years later, I still feel pretty well but
>Hi Susan, >>In the Archives many people have posted that they have done the Wilson's protocol, are thinking about doing it, or are currently doing their own particular version of it. Some go back as far as 10 years. >>Many times we don't hear from them anymore. It sure would be nice to be able to connect with them for follow-up to see what results they got and what improvement they found for particular symptoms. It would also be good to know if they have any other conditions going on, other medications being taken as well, adrenal function, etc. >>Any
OK, I am not one of those in the archives, since my adjustments based on wilson's syndrome predate my joining the list, but here's some information anyway.
I was diagnosed in 1992 as hypothyroid and placed on synthroid. In 1995 that diagnosis was further defined as hashimoto's thyroiditis based on the presence of the appropriate thyroid antibodies (the antibodies test had not been done previous to this). In 1999 I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia, if you compare the symptoms of FMS and Wilson's they are almost identical except for Wilson's mentioning a low basal temp and FMS discussing tender points,
Hello Everyone, I am new to the group and have spent the day reading many of the archived posts. I applaud you on your level-headed discussions about the Wilson's Protocol. It has its naysayers, to be sure, but at lease you all are willing to delve beneath the surface of it, try and understand the rationale behind it, and, for those of you who have tried it, to share your experiences. Just a little background about me: I have worked in the medical profession (as a researcher and a clinical laboratory scientist) so I have some knowledge of how protocols
Just found out I have 'inconclusive' (very low positive?) levels of sjogren's syndrome antibodies (SS-A and SS-B). No syndrome symptoms yet, but these Aabs.
Back in 2003-4 I began on thyroid replacement, because my TSH was rising to 3.4 and up. I was, indeed going a little hypothyroid. My endocrinologist felt it was time to begin treatment. He has run Hashimoto's antibodies numerous times, and they are always negative.
I have been on the Wilson's protocol (sustained-release T3) for almost 6 years now. Overall, it has been very helpful to me. My average has been (for the most part) 90 mcg., twice a day.
Often I will "cycle down" on dosage to see how low I can go before symptoms appear. Usually, anything below 60 and I will feel pain in the costochondrial region, plus I will start feeling (for lack of a better work) "weepy" all the time.
In a message dated 4/28/2007 12:34:38 A.M. Eastern Daylight Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
Not to oversimplify things, but is the fact of getting to 98.6 F the signal to stop, even if I don't feel so good? >>>> When I was in Medical School, the joke was that you could get a shaved gorilla through Med School; if you could teach it to say, "It varies."
Yesterday I went to see a "complementary" medical practitioner in the city where I live (Santa Monica, CA, just outside of L.A.). He has an M.D. as well as a degree in homeopathic medicine, and he's a licensed acupuncturist as well. He's very much into the Oriental approach to medicine. I had seen him briefly five years ago, so I (thought I) knew what to expect.
Hi, Edward, I also was diagnosed with Hashimoto's in 2000. I developed a goiter and had my thyroid removed last summer. Like you, I have not had good luck with endocrynologists. I am not sure why they are not receptive to the many problems of thyroid patients when that is their specialty. I have found a wonderful doctor who is an internal medicine doctor with a specialty in thyroid disease. Perhaps the heavy sweating is a symptom of something other than Hashimoto's and your medication? An internal medicine doctor might be able to help you there. Good luck and feel
Wondered if you'd mind mentioning what area of the country you're located in? I too have found an internal medicine doc that, unlike the endos, has seemed to take a real interest in thyroid issues and also issues of chronic fatigue, fibro, et cetera. Just wondering if maybe we had the same doc!! I'd really be interested in discussing this doctor, Dr. Vinitsky, with someone else who is going to or has gone to him. He's located in Montgomery County, Maryland.
I am 53 (male), and was diagnosed with Hashimoto's in 1997. Since 2001, I have been on a treatment protocol of sustained-release T3. While I have throughout my life "run hot," (as did my mother, who says she also used to sweat excessively), I have of late experienced increasing frequency of and severity in my episodes of hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), chiefly on my face and neck. It is usually brought out by eating or drinking something hot (temperature-wise, not spicy), or even being in a room warmer than the one I just left.
I'm new to this list and hoping to get some advice. My mum's blood test showed very low levels of TSH - 0.057 and normal T3 - 5.54 (lab range 2.5-6) and T4 - 14 (lab range 8-22).
She saw an endocrinologist a few days ago who said these results are not too abnormal but suggested a thyroid test in 2 weeks. I am very concerned however because mum has all the symptoms of hyperthyrodism - intolerance to heat, suddent hot flashes (she is 70 yrs old so not penapausal), insomnia, anxioty attacks, weight gain... When she did
If anti-thyroid drugs are stopped suddenly there is possibility of provoking hyper symptoms. Neo-Mercazole's mode of action is to inhibit the formation of thyroid hormone precursors by decreasing the uptake of iodide. With a reduced amount of thyroid hormones in the system-- the gland is stimulated by TSH to secrete more hormones. Thus, the TSH should be higher than baseline. With sudden withdrawal of the drug and an elevated stimulation by TSH-- you see more symptoms. I wonder how long your mom has been taking the drug. Risk of Side-effects increases with age past 40yo. Perhaps it is better
Hello Group, I've got a couple of issues that I hope you kind folks can give me insight on. I have been diagnosed hypo since 1985. Med regiment has been pretty consistent at .2 mcg synthroid this whole time with some periodic tweaking.
I am experiencing perimenopause. I started using a compounded progesterone cream (50 mg/ml, using 1cc daily) in early November to offset those symptoms. At that time my synthroid was prescribed at .25 mcg daily. I have been fairly ill (upper respritory) since the beginning of December. I have bimonthly bloodwork done for the thyroid. I am overly
Ask for hormone levels (t3/t4). TSH takes some time to reflect effect of medication. A more "real-time" assay would be Total T4 with T3 Resin Uptake or the Free T3/T4.
Good luck,
Greg
----- Original Message ----- From: "Sharon" <[log in to unmask]>
I have bimonthly bloodwork done for the thyroid. I am overly concerned with my last tsh readings. December 28 my tsh reading was 276.32. I had the bloodwork retested December 29 and the tsh came in at 272.46. The most hypo reading I have ever had is 38.
In a message dated 1/7/2007 8:35:57 P.M. US Eastern Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
I am concerned not only with the obscene tsh level but also the drastic increase in meds. Has anyone experienced this? Is anyone aware of a list dedicated to these particular issues?
Needless to say, I am a mess. Any and all comments are welcome.
List members, Was just told that my thyroid binding globulins are low. Endo says, that could be because I take steroids for Addison's Disease.
Some questions I have-- How do steroids, replacement level or thereabouts, affect TBG? Does low TBG indicate usually a need for a little T3 replacement as well as the T4?
I also have low SHBG. How do TBG and sex hormone binding globulin interact, if they do? So many questions! Thanks Holly
The thyroid hormones T3 and T4 are transported in the body via proteins that bind them. Only free (unbound) T3 and T4 are active in the body. Measuring T3 uptake (the RT3U test) helps estimate the availability of thyroxin binding globulin (TBG) -- the protein that carries most of the T3 and T4 in the blood. RT3U is inversely proportional to TBG levels: that is, if the TBG level goes up, the RT3U values will
In a message dated 12/2/2006 11:11:38 A.M. US Eastern Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
Sometimes even begging with the research in hand does not work. And when your thyroid is off you cant even function well enough to fight for what you need.
Nancy >>>> I sometimes tell my patients that they have been drafted into the "Thyroid Wars" when they get a thyroid problem that doesn't conform to current erroneous prejudices about the value of lab work over the history in making any Diagnosis. The Medical profession's widespread ignorance of Thyroid difficulties killed members of my family and used up
I am soooo frustrated! I am currently on treatment for hypothyroid (and I have been for 3 years), but I have never had much success with weight loss. Like many others, I have tried just about all of the available diet plans. Most recently, I did Atkins. I felt absolutely awful, and I didn't lose any weight. I don't struggle with portion control or making good choices, but I do struggle to regularly exercise. Even when sticking to that, however, I have not lost any weight. I refuse to accept that I might be obese for my entire life, but
In a message dated 11/29/2006 11:12:46 P.M. US Eastern Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
I want to live long enough to see my grandchildren some day! It's hard to image that's possible as a morbidly obese woman. What more can I do? >>>>>>
It seems pretty obvious that you are not getting adequate care. Our specie has evolved over eons to eat a variable diet, survive under pretty adverse conditions, and keep a pretty reasonable weight.
Lost the List for sometime during the switch over to the new host. 'been busy as well travelling on assignments.
I'm still maintaining Thyroxine (due to inavailability of Armour this side). Pretty much in control over the years that's gone by. I've identified factors that make me feel worse at times and just deal with them as they arise.
This topic brings to mind something I read recently, cannot recall the source.
The writer suggested that part of the body's response to short term stress is to raise Cortisol and DHEA. (Having Addison's disease, this peaked my attention, I must say! I had of course known that cortisol goes up for short term stress, however didn't realize it could affect DHEA levels as well. It does make sense, since dhea is also mediated by ACTH.) The article continued to discuss longer-term stress, chronic stress, in which the body's response is to sustain the high cortisol level, but DHEA level
>From: Holly Jagger <[log in to unmask]> >Has anyone heard of DHEA affecting metabolism?
Since it is thought to burn fat, and build muscle, that implies an effect on metabolism.
I had heard that DHEA does not have the negative feedback loop like cortisol does, so if you take DHEA, regardless of the levels it will not suppress your own natural DHEA production.
Hello to everybody! It's been a long time since I contributed to the List, but I wanted to share this (and I apologize in advance if it is long).
I was diagnosed with Hashimoto's in 1997, and took Synthroid from '97 to 2001, with part of that time involved in taking it with 25 mcg. of Cytomel. Since June of '01, I have been on Sustained-Release T3 (no thyroxine at all), and overall I'd have to say it's been a great success. Over the years, when I feel some of the old hypo symptoms returning, I'd "cycle" down on the
Listers, When we are told we have autoimmune hypothyroidism, does this definitely indicate the gland will decline in function more and more until it is totally destroyed? In that case, it would seem best to ramp up the thyroid hormone replacement, and just suppress the remaining endogenous function altogether. Quality of life on full replacement would then be optimized.
When we are told we have autoimmune hypothyroidism, does this definitely indicate the gland will decline in function more and more until it is totally destroyed? In that case, it would seem best to ramp up the thyroid hormone replacement, and just suppress the remaining endogenous function altogether. Quality of life on full replacement would then be optimized.
In a message dated 8/27/2006 10:17:57 A.M. US Eastern Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
When we are told we have autoimmune hypothyroidism, does this definitely indicate the gland will decline in function more and more until it is totally destroyed? In that case, it would seem best to ramp up the thyroid hormone replacement, and just suppress the remaining endogenous function altogether. Quality of life on full replacement would then be optimized. >>>>> Friends,
>When we are told we have autoimmune hypothyroidism, does this definitely >indicate the gland will decline in function more and more until it is >totally destroyed?
In a summary of an endo journal on a med school website, I read about a patient coming in with adrenal crises. He historically had high Hashimoto's titters, but after they treated him with corticosteroids they fixed the adrenal crises, he also no longer had Hashi's antibodies, and the course of the treatment was only short term.
Well it has happened again (why am I not surprised). My lithium took my tsh from 2.5 (where I felt like I was hardly living after being .2 for so long) to 8.9. That number got the Endocrinologist and her nurse that prescribed bedroom furniture for me (armoir) to raise my armour from 3 to 3 1/4 grains. After almost 4 months my TSH was down to 4.8. They feel that is more than adequate. Makes you just want to give up. I am sure it does not help that the reference normal range at this stupid lab is .45
>Well it has happened again (why am I not surprised). My lithium took my >tsh >from 2.5 (where I felt like I was hardly living after being .2 for so long)
Is there no alternative to lithium?
It does bad things to thyroid function, here's a good discussion -
http://psychiatrictimes.com/p020156.html An increasing body of research supports the hypothesis that lithium alters cellular responsiveness to thyroxine in addition to inducing significant changes in the function of the thyroid gland.
My husband is showing symptoms of hypothyroidism, and we will be visiting a doctor soon. (An expert on Wilson's low body temp). Although hubby's temperature is very close to normal - 36.8 to 36.9 degrees (98.24 to 98.42).
He's had Plantar Fasciitis for about a year now, and I have a feeling it's got something to do with a low thyroid function? Skipper, you said ""As for me, I felt much better right after I switched to Armour. A couple months after switching, I realized I no longer limped from plantar Fasciitis, and it's real nice
Mary Shomon doesn't like to come out and say low thyroid causes things -
Plantar Fasciitis - Linked with Hypothyroidism? "Heel pain -- known as plantar fasciitis, is more common in people with thyroid conditions. "
She should add "undertreated" -
http://www.thyroid-info.com/dietnews/5apr.htm "10. Muscle and Joint Pains, Carpal Tunnel/Tendonitis Problems, Plantar's Fasciitis/Foot Pain Aches and pains in muscles and joints, and a tendency to develop carpal tunnel in the arms/hands, tarsal tunnel in the legs, and plantar's fasciitis in the feet, can all be symptoms of undiagnosed
Question: I have been on active T3 for about a year now, and am feeling great! But about 2 months ago, we had some food poisoning, with the result that I could not keep my one 12 hourly dosage of T3 in my body. I tried 3 times to swallow a new pill, but it all came back up again. I only missed that one dosage.
I just had a TT on June 22. I had benign nodules on my thyroid which was irradiated 11 years ago while being treated for Hodgkin's Disease. I had about 7 doctors who all thought that after watching the nodules for 2.5 years that the whole thyroid should go.
Since the surgery my hormone levels have been dropping and I've been trying to titrate onto Synthroid with great difficulty. My heart has been pounding nonstop and my pulse is very fast (100-120). I haven't slept much in a few nights because of this which makes becoming hypo even
In a message dated 7/5/2006 8:18:16 P.M. US Eastern Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
Has anyone out there had a similar experience with palpitations getting on synthroid? Is this something that will go away as my body adjusts to the medication? is it more likely to be my adrenals or could there be another problem? Do you think I could step up my medication at this point so that I don't continue to become more and more hypo or would my palpitations get worse? >>>> Run, don't walk to a doctor who has a better understanding of your condition and who
My heart has been pounding nonstop and = >my pulse is very fast=20 >(100-120).
Two potential reasons I know of for that.
One, is too much thyroid medication, too quickly.
Two is that some hypos produce adrenaline to compensate for the low thyroid. These people find that increasing the thyroid medication, lowers the heart rate.
Would someone here know how Armour Thyroid and other dessicated products compare? For instance, I have read about Nature- Throid, Westhyroid (sp?), etc. I am interested in dosage comparisons, ratios of T4, T3, etc., binders, stability, etc. Will be going to a specialist at Mass. General on June 30 and would very much like to 'study up' on this info prior to the appointment.
>Would someone here know how Armour Thyroid and other dessicated products >compare?
They have the same T4 / T3 as Armour. Nature-Throid is simply a hypoallergenic verstion -
http://www.westernresearchlaboratories.com/ Nature-Throid and Westhroid are prescribed to patients who have been diagnosed with a thyroid disease. These products are measured in Grains. Each Grain is equal to 64.8 mg containing 9 mcg of T3 and 38 mcg of the T4 hormone.
I have been first on 25mg levothroxin (generic of synthroid) for 1 1/2 years then increased to 50 mg for the last year ....
At this years exam I was sent to get a thyroid ultrasound and am awaiting the results...
My question to anyone out there is that before I began the medication for hypothyroidism I had very few symptoms but the thyroid seemed a bit enlarged so they took the tsh put me on levothroxin, once on the medication it seems that I just keep developing more and more symptoms, weight gain, possible nodules...
The answer to your question would depend on other factors. The most common form of hypothyroidism is hashimoto's thyroiditis. In that condition the body develops antibodies which attack the thyroid. It can therefore be progressive in nature as more damage is done to the thyroid over time by these antibodies. Have they testsed your thyroid antibody levels to determine if this is the source of your hypothyroidism? If not that might be something to check If yes and you do have Hashimoto's, then you may go through periods of flares of thyroid problem followed by better period but the overall
>My question to anyone out there is that before I began the medication for= >hypothyroidism I had very few symptoms but the thyroid seemed a bit >enlarged so they took the tsh put me on levothroxin, once on the >medication it seems that I just keep developing more and more symptoms,
1. Thyroid medication doesn't have to be for life, and if you didn't need it in the first place, stopping will put you back in the same place you would be without meds.
can any one tell me if they have had any?? luck with losing weight after a total thyroidectomy?? i cant seem to lose any ?? i was told i would gain maybe 7 pounds lol as of 2 1/2 yrs ago i have gained 80 pounds and i cant find anything to work???
I'd like to hear from anyone who, like me (apparently), has had papillary carcinoma (total thyroidectomy and 131-I ablation 2.5 years ago) and Graves' disease, both. My Graves' disease diagnosis is not yet confirmed by my own MD, but family member physicians are nearly certain of it.
Has anyone been diagnosed with Graves' disease post-thyroidectomy, and if so would you share your treatment regimen?
I live in Italy and can not find Armour Thyroid here, am currently on Eutirox 150 mcg (Levotiroxina sodica) and Ti-Tre 20 mcg (Liotironina) Have muscle pain that was diagnosed by one Dr. as being Fibromyalgia.... I have been wanting to try Armour Thyroid as I have read that some people have had much less muscle pain taking Armour. I would greatly appreciate it if anyone has Internet sites to order legitimate Armour. Thanks in advance for your help.
Pain from cervical strain/thoracic outlet syndrome has intensified since adding more Cytomel/dropping synthroid a bit last week. Hips, lower back, right up to head. Awful. Also my entire body seems to be aching, so much pain I even feel nauseous! Are some kinds of pain associated with too much T3 in the system?
Since my heart rate was up for a bit, and buzziness, startling easily, extra agitation/anxious feelings, I have assumed that my body has been slightly hyperthyroid in this adjustment-week.
Are some kinds of pain associated with too much >T3 in the system?
Increase in thyroid medication doesn't always feel better, even if you need the increase. A few years ago when I increased, I felt like I could hardly talk and my left arm went numb. I didn't like the feeling at all, so I went up another grain the next day. (The aggressive approach, which isn't always correct.) Anyway, I felt much better doing that and I could speak normally again. However, the left arm has been numb ever since.
Course to cover minimally invasive thyroid, parathyroid surgery Toni Baker April 10, 2006
Dr. Paolo Miccoli, a pioneer of minimally invasive thyroid and parathyroid surgery techniques, is among the guest faculty for the Medical College of Georgias April 21-22 course on these new surgical approaches.
Dr. Miccoli, professor and chief of the Department of Surgery at the University of Pisa, Italy, will discuss Minimally Invasive Thyroidectomy at 9:40 a.m. Friday, April 21 and Minimally Invasive Parathyroidectomy at 9:40 a.m. April 22 during the Minimally Invasive Surgical Management of Parathyroid Disorders course at the Augusta Marriott Hotel and Suites.
Small gland, large ramifications DR HEMANT THACKER
TIMES NEWS NETWORK MONDAY, APRIL 10, 2006 12:18:45 AM
How often have we heard of obesity and thyroid in the same breath or linked the scary big eyes and palpitating hearts to the thyroid. And what about that magic little pill which is a mere replacement of a deficiency, that is seen to weave magic in the human body?
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped organ wrapped around your windpipe, often likened to the body's thermostat.
Thyroxine, a hormone secreted by the thyroid, is the chemical trigger that promotes maturation in the young and controls how fast the body's metabolism runs. To make thyroxine, the thyroid needs iodine. So iodine, easily obtained from iodized salt, is an essential nutrient.
>In humans, too little thyroxine stunts the growth of children and can cause >retardation.
One of the primary symptoms in children is a change in the rate of lineal growth. So, if a child is at the 90th percentile and you find out he's now only at the 70th percentile, it's time to investigate. Those doctors keep those growth charts, but they don't seem to actually understand how to use them as a warning for low thyroid.
In a message dated 4/6/2006 3:01:56 A.M. US Eastern Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
Not to mention I'm not sure they've done long term safety studies on the chemicals used in sun screen. >>>> On one of the Medical web sites, I read that about 5 of the chemicals commonly used in sunscreen have been rated by industry as carcinogens.
Sunscreen chemicals disrupt thyroid in rats 13:58 03 April 2006 NewScientist.com news service Roxanne Khamsi
8th European Congress of Endocrinology Chemicals found in many sunscreens can disrupt the production of thyroid hormone in rats, researchers report.
Their study raises concerns that chemicals that absorb ultraviolet light could damage the thyroid in people. The thyroid gland is located in the neck and secretes hormones that affect growth and metabolism.
>K=F6hrle also says that people should not interpret the findings from his= > study on rats as a reason to give up wearing sunscreen now.
Or maybe they should. Those who "protect" us seem to like to scare us. By scaring us into wearing sunscreen whenever we leave the house, they've scared us away from Vitamin D production. Most people in America are low in Vitamin D, and sunscreen is a factor. It's an extremely important nutrient. Not to mention I'm not sure they've done long term safety studies on the chemicals used in sun screen.
Listers, Does anyone here have a system for adjusting T4/T3 and replacement steroids?
I have Addison's, so have been on Cortef for years. Then added a little thyroid hormone. Adjusted to that, then found I was hyperthyroid and hyPOadrenal. Then, a little more steroid. Now, a little more thyroid hormone. Gradually adjusting each as I introduce more and more thyroid hormone.
I am at a point with my thyroid issues and other autoimmune issues where my allergist, internist and several other doctors are once again baffled by my condition. I'm wondering if anyone has ever used these alternative treatments with respect to autoimmune stuff, and if you have had success.
In a message dated 3/31/2006 7:23:04 AM Pacific Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes: I'm wondering if anyone has ever used these alternative treatments with respect to autoimmune stuff . . . . Several years ago, I ordered some articles from Chinese journals (written in English, thankfully) about acupuncture, and how certain treatments were able to reverse Hashimoto's. I don't know how useful or even accurate they were, but if I remember correctly, I found them on-line: www.nlm.nih.gov.
DEAR DR. DONOHUE: I would appreciate it if you would explain frozen shoulder to me. My right shoulder hurt a bit, and I thought it would go away. It didn't, and all of a sudden I couldn't move it. I saw a doctor, who made the diagnosis of frozen shoulder. I am getting therapy. How long does this last? -- O.R.
It sounds like you might not be taking on enough thyroid medication. I had the identical symptoms with the rashes and sudden allergies to everything.(try chicken, you won't be allergic to that). A wonderful allergist told me that those symptoms are indicative of high levels of thryroid antibodies - hashimotos thyroditis. Another symptom of hashi's is swinging from hyper to hypo. I have not had hives in years since being on thyroid meds.
>>Maybe what works is the "undefinable thing". Her nurse did not even know what Armour was...(when they asked me to list my meds) . how frightening is that?<<
HI All,
Because of my mystery illness of 14 yrs (CFS), and the utter lack of help from MD's, I've resorted to deal mostly in homeopathy. Once dx'd with Hashi's, I'd heard from my OBGYN of a good naturopath who has had great success with Hashi's/hypo patients. I also read in Mary Shomon's book that this route seemed almost more successful than sythetic treatment by MD's.
Just wanted to thank Skipper and Nancy for their input. I left my last doctor because he was unwilling to go beyond the TSH. He said I should see a shrink, and gave me a prescription for Wellbutrin. My new doctor seems more open minded, but why he didn't do a free T3 test is beyond me. Maybe I can get it from him next time. Also, I've found that I can go to one of the local labs and get a free T3, free T4, and TSH test done for $75. I might do that just for my own
I am new also. I had a nasty virus bite me 14 years ago and I've never been the same since. I'm in the "Chronic Fatigue Syndrome" category. Anyhow, I too have been tested but always "normal". Anyhow, just had the full panel done and I do show high antibodies "85" on scale of 0-25 being normal. These antibodies indicate Hashimoto's Thyroiditis. With Hashi's your levels tend to go up and down.
The subject line says it all - excessive weight loss and hyperactivity, then pregnancy with hives (Dr. attributed to chemical imbalance) and "butterfly" mask (again attributed to pregnancy), then hypo with steady weight gain, eventually diagnosed Hashis with classic puffy eyes, swollen neck and 1/3 of my eyebrows gone. Some kind of recurring dermatitis/eczema outbreaks on my hands. Numerous thyroid prescriptions have proven unsuccessful in treating fatigue, steady weight gain and "brain fog." Arthritis has been creeping throughout my body, especially debilitating in the hip. I can hardly walk some days. Suddenly I'm allergic to everything, even asprin, with outrageous
Cheryl : >. Is my thyroid disorder progressing into lupus? > What I would suggest (my opinion only from my research and some personal experience) is that it is more likely that it is just extreme thyroid issues. I think as long as doctors mainly look at thyroid tests such as TSH etc. and keep you in these huge ranges without looking at how you feel, look, function etc. there will be more and more that are diagnosed with Lupus, with fibromyalgia etc etc. I think it may also be something along the lines of people not coverting T4 to
>From: Cheryl <[log in to unmask]> Numerous thyroid prescriptions have proven >unsuccessful in treating fatigue, steady weight gain and "brain fog." >Arthritis has been creeping throughout my body, especially debilitating in
Two important things here. One is your thyroid must be adequately treated, or you'll never know it its just thyroid issues.
Secondly, a common affliction along with low thyroid is low adrenal function, and it makes thyroid treatment ineffective or dangerous. Most doctors know about Addison's, but don't know about treating low adrenals that are bad, but not that bad.
I'm new here, and fairly new to the whole thyroid "thing". I have had a lot of the hypothyroid symptoms for most of my life (I'm 36 now), ever since about the time I contracted Hepatitis C when I was 12. The virus is still there, but is not causing any obvious harm at this point. My symptoms are lethargy, a tendency to depression, cold feet all the time, constipation, dry skin, difficulty concentrating, and probably a few others that I'm forgetting. Anyway, I went to a doctor about 5 years ago and requested that he check my thyroid.
>TSH 2.042 range 0.35--5.500 > >Thyroxine (T4) 12.1 range 4.5--12.0 > >T3 uptake 21 range 24-39 > >Free Thyroxine Index 2.5 range 1.2--4.9 > > >I have not been to see the doctor about this yet, but in his scribbling on >the test it says that the abnormalities are probably due to the hepatitis.
First, median TSH in large studies is 1.5. Second even people with good TSH levels are sometimes still hypothyroid.
Sandi, Thanks so much for the Armour story. I will be trying it, to see if my glucocorticoid adjustments due to Addison's Disease affect me less on the Armour than on the Synthroid. (on synthroid, every time I have to up steroids for infection, stress, etc, I go extremely hypothyroid for a few days-terrible symptoms).
I've been following the dialogue about switching from Synthroid to Armour - and have comment and question.
I switched to Armour quite a number of years ago and felt like a different person once I made the switch. Like many others out there, I don't convert T4 to T3 and the Armour made all the difference. While I don't recall my previous Synthroid dose, I do know that after about two weeks on the Armour, my dose needed to be increased. My understanding is that the Synthroid has a ½ life that takes about 10 days to clear out of
Listers, Hoping someone out there can tell mehas anyone converted synthroid dosing over to Armour? If I am on 50 and 62.5 mcg Synthroid in alternating-day dosing, would that convert to about ¾ grain of Armour a day? I am considering two doses, taking ½ in the morning and about ¾ in the afternoon. Does that sound about right?
Looking for some suggestions. My endo has given me an indication that he will gladly prescribe Armour thyroid, so I will need to convert from Synthroid. Current dose has been: alternating days of 50 and 62.5 mcg. Synthroid. Going from all T4 to a combination, things can get rather difficult.
Also, is twice a day dosing best, since Armour is not timed-release? Thanks Holly
When I went from synthroid to Armour I went from 200 synthroid to 3 grain (180 mg) Armour and that seemed to work. As for the once or twice a day issue, if I take it much after noon it interferes with my sleep so for me its once a day.
Chuck
> Looking for some suggestions. My endo has given me an indication that he > will gladly prescribe Armour thyroid, so I will need to convert from > Synthroid. Current dose has been: alternating days of 50 and 62.5 mcg. > Synthroid. Going from all T4 to
>As for the once or twice a day issue, if I take it much after noon >it interferes with my sleep so for me its once a day.
The timing issue seems to be very individual. I can take as much as 1.5 grain at bedtime and sleep like a log. I take half of my dose first thing in the morning and try to take the other half around 2PM normally, though. That has worked better for me than taking it all at once.
Right now I take Armour Thyroid (T4 and T3 together) and don't eat at least three hours before, and one hour after, my dose, to ensure that it's absorbed properly on an empty stomach. I remember reading that T3 has a much shorter half-life than T4, so does that mean people who take T3 alone can eat immediately before and after their doses?
>take T3 alone can eat immediately before and after their doses? > >To the people who take only T3, what do you do about food?
As I understand it, few people use T3 alone.
Use of T3, in combination with T4, raises *enough* red flags.
Effectiveness of thyroid hormone replacement can be influenced by many things.
The important thing about food intake around thyroid pills is consistency. You need to take your thyroid hormone replacement at the same time, and with the same food (in, or not in your stomach) each time. That way your tested blood levels will be
the nutritional books are........ "Prescription for Nutritional Healing" Third Edition, by Phyllis Balch, cnc and "Prescription for Natural Cures" by James Balch, M.D. and Mark Stengler, M.D. and on a few sites on Net.
Have been searching around places like WebMD, Thyroid org etc. with no luck. I searched the archives before I posted my question with no luck. I feel I will need some hard facts before my doctor will take notice of this. I have even ask 2 pharmacists I know with no luck. Thank you -Polly
I am a RN on a cardiac unit at a local hospital. MY TSH is 45.6. My endo started me on 125 mcg T4. He says it is safe to return to wok after I have been on the T4 for 1 week. It has been 1 week. I still feel foggy. I can't spell and I am very forgetful. I don't think I am safe taking care of patients but I can find no research on this subject.
This is always so subjective, at least in my experience. TSH has never accurately reflected how I was really feeling. However, I can tell you that the newest range (not that all doctors follow it or are aware of it) is .3 to 3.0. But I know that I feel as you describe when I am at, like present 2.4 . As an example, 8 months ago I was at .03 (basically surpressed) and have started taking a med that counteracts how my body is utilizing my thyroid replacement. Now I am at 2.4 and I have gained 80 pounds
In a message dated 2/18/2006 2:45:59 P.M. US Eastern Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
MY TSH is 45.6. My endo started me on 125 mcg T4. ..... I still feel foggy. I can't spell and I am very forgetful. I don't think I am safe taking care of patients but I can find no research on this subject. >>>>
Hello I am new to the group and I am sure this question has been asked before........ I have read in nutritional books to avoid antihistamines if your hypothyroid. Does taking antihistamines block the absorption of iodine? And if it does......can anyone point me in the correct direction for some hard facts I can take to my doctors appointment.
>I am sure this question has been asked >before........
To find what has already been said on any topic, try sending a message that says only
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In a message dated 2/17/2006 11:17:10 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
Does taking antihistamines block the absorption of iodine?
That's a good question that deserves medical/scientific attention. So far I found one web article that answers yes: "Sulfa and antihistamine drugs aggravate iodine uptake by the thyroid." _http://www.iodinesource.com/ThyroidGland.asp_ (http://www.iodinesource.com/ThyroidGland.asp) (I have no other knowledge of how good this site is.)
>I'm interested that someone else reacted badly to Zyrtec.
If doctors worried about side effects, they'd give out very few prescriptions.
http://rxlist.com/cgi/generic/cetiriz_ad.htm The most common adverse reaction in patients aged 12 years and older that occurred more frequently on cetirizine than placebo was somnolence. The incidence of somnolence associated with cetirizine was dose related, 6% in placebo, 11% at 5 mg and 14% at 10 mg. Discontinuations due to somnolence for cetirizine were uncommon
Skipper, could you list drugs that have "some form of magnesium"? Are you referring to magnesium stearate?
Kathy F.
----- Original Message ----- From: "Skipper Beers" <[log in to unmask]> > snipped > I've also noted many drugs have some form of magnesium, > and when taken close together, that is one of the things > that interfere with thyroid absorption. >
>Skipper, could you list drugs that have "some form of >magnesium"? Are you referring to magnesium stearate?
Probably. It's a common filler. It may be they don't use enough to interfere with thyroid absorption, but I don't know that. Other medications use forms of calcium as a filler, something else known to interfere with thyroid absorption.
Characterizing my experiences with heat intolerance (dx: Premature Ovarian failure, primary addison's disease, hypothyroidism), I find the following:
"Hot flashes" due to low or fluctuating estrogen--seem to originate in stomach area, lower torso, then spread upward to head "sweats" due to hyperthyroid symptoms--seem to originate in my Head.
It is fairly easy for me to tell what's causing what. And lowered Combi Patch sure cleared that up!!
In a message dated 2/9/2006 4:00:13 A.M. US Eastern Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
Now that I am treating it with Armour Thyroid, and feeling much better, I still find myself sweating profusely when it's warm outside or when I do any physical work outdoors (every day, actually). >>>> While Hyperthyroidism and Adrenal problems can both lead to sweating for relatively minor reasons, I frequently see this symptom in women who are low on estrogen and males who are low on testosterone.
My Hashimoto's Thyroiditis was very difficult to diagnose because the first symptom I noticed was heat-sensitivity - at the time, I actually couldn't decide if I was hyper- or hypothyroid. Now that I am treating it with Armour Thyroid, and feeling much better, I still find myself sweating profusely when it's warm outside or when I do any physical work outdoors (every day, actually).