
Hypothyroidism Support Group
Hypothyroidism is the disease state caused by insufficient production of thyrohormone by the thyroid gland. There are several distinct causes for chronic hypothyroidism, the most common being Hashimoto's thyroiditis and hypothyroidism following radioiodine therapy for hyperthyroidism. Advanced hypothyroidism may cause severe complications, the most serious one of which is...
Hypothyroidism itself can cause many symptoms including weight gain and hair loss. Taking the meds will replace the homrone you need. When your levels have are optimized, the symptoms should stop.
It can take time to get optimal treatment. Med increases need to be done in small increments over a period of several weeks. You should be retested six to eight weeks after an increase.
What dose of Levothyroixing are you taking? When did you start it?
Does your doctor check your Free T3, Free T4 (besides the T3 and T4) levels in addition to the normal panel? This is important. Do you have a copy of your lab results?
It is important to learn as much as you can. Knowledge is power. Some books I like are "What Your Doctor Many Not Tell You About Hypothyroidism" by Ken Blanchard, M.D., "Living Well With Hypothyroidism" by Mary J. Shoman, and "Thyroid Power" by Richard L. Shames, M.D. and Karilee Halo Shames, R.N.
How long has it been since you had blood testing done?
Don't be afraid, I've been on Synthroid for twenty some years now and my hair hasn't fallen out and I have put on some weight over time, but it's simply because I ate too much! I'm on a diet right now and have just lost 6 lbs. Have to keep going because my cholesterol is high. I'm not huge - 164 - but I was always pretty thin. You're going to be fine.
Beckeroo