THYROID DISEASE

Read and learn more about thyroid problem. For more, visit the Thyroid Disease website ThyroidDiseaseWiki.com.

Q: thyroid problem?
I’ve been doing a lot of research on the internet for my problems. I have irregular periods(all my life), tired all the time, I cannot keep weight on ect. My grandmother told me a while back that a lot of women in our family have a thyroid problem. What is your opinion? I’m planning on going to the doctor to get a test.

A: here is some information about myself, plus some symptoms in case anyone coming upon your question may be interested;
i have low thyroid. if you have low thyroid…here’s a great question to answer: can you see the floor of your house? that was what was asked of me at one point, and to my amazement, the answer was no!
anyway, the signs are:fatigue and lack of energy. Women suffering from underactive thyroid experience heavier menstrual periods. Sluggishness and forgetfulness are symptoms of underactive thyroid problem. Other symptoms of this thyroid disorder are dry skin and hair and constipation.
if you have high thyroid, or an overactive one, the signs are:increased body metabolism. This is followed by weight loss and excessive warmth and sweating. Persons suffering from overactive thyroid experience trembling hands, irritability and rapid heartbeat or palpitations. Women with overactive thyroid or hyperthyroidism may experience shorter or lighter menstrual periods.
I take medication, and sadly will have to take 1 pill everyday for the rest of my life. there’s a blood check that they will do to see if you have low or high. i hope i’ve helped you!!

Q: Thyroid problem?
My husband is feeling weakness and fatigue since last few days. Also there is a frequent change in mood and temparament. Wht could be the possible reason and remedies available. Doctor has adviced a thyroid test should he undergo the test to diagnose the abovesaid problem. Also is this curable and how does one’s daily activities and body functioning affected due to thyroid problems.

A: There’s hypothyroid (underactive) and hyperthyroid (overactive) If he is experiencing fatigue it is probably hypothyroidism. All your husband will need is a morning blood test. Most doctors only do TSH, I’d suggest a TSH, Free T4, Free T3, and an antibody test. The TSH sometimes doesn’t catch things because TSH changes throughout the day.

If your husband is hypothyroid, he will be put on a thyroid medication that he will take daily. The dosage is adjusted by blood work until it is stable. Most feel best with a morning TSH around 1.0 if on T4. For those on T4 & T3, they feel best with a mid-range Free T4, and a high in range Free T3.

First, let him get the test making sure its a morning test only. Then if he has a thyroid problem visit the below site

Q: Thyroid Problem?
I got an ultra sound on my thyroid, last week because i have the symptoms of a thyroid problem. My question is, since the thyroid controls the hormones and stuff like that, if i get the problem fixed will my boobs grow as a result? If the thyroid thing is the problem, I have been suffering from it for years, therefore my puberty was messed up resulting in me being an A cup =( SO, I know its a stupid question, but just humor me and give me some answers lol. thanks

A: There is a Thyroid Organisation you can ask them on-line (or even join them)

http://www.thyroid.org/

Here is a site that also deals with thyroid problems

http://www.emedicinehealth.com/thyroid_problems/article_em.htm

and just many more sites:

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&rls=com.microsoft%3Aen-US&q=Thyroid

Q: Does your thyroid gland have to be swollen for you to have a thyroid problem?
I have all of the symptoms of a thyroid problem except a swollen thyroid gland. So does it sound like I have a thyroid problem or does it sound like a different problem?

A: No, it does NOT have to be swollen and you should NOT be diagnosed on a thyroid blood panel only! Especially if the doc only blood tests for TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone). If he/she does then run do not walk from their office. TSH is your body’s thermostat which is secreted by your Pituitary Gland.

I learned the hard way from experience and now due to doctor’s misconceptions I had to have my thyroid surgically removed. I missed thyroid cancer by a hair width. I will be taking 2 pills 3 times per day for the rest of my life because of doctors solely relying on blood tests. I had a sub-clinical thyroid condition (meaning blood tests within the normal to low normal range) which later resulted in a autoimmune disease thyroid condition. I should have been diagnosed based on symptoms, but it takes a doc with a lot of knowledge to think outside the 4-corners of their medical textbook and guts too. My symptoms began 15 years ago and it took 15 years to hit rock bottom for my disease to surface on blood tests but then it became an autoimmune disease and was TOO LATE. Autoimmune disease is where your immune system turns against you and it begins to attack your body.

Also, I found that specialists such as Endocrinologists were the least informed. I found that they were quick to push mental health drugs treating only the symptoms and not getting to the root of the real problem. Go to the library and SELF-EDUCATE, read all books by patient advocate Mary J. Shomon, Doctors Ridha Ahrem and Steven F. Hotze. Once you learn just how important the thyroid is to your body’s well being and how it functions, then you will be able to connect the dots. You know your body better than anyone.

If you can remember one key important fact which is that some/most doctors medicate using the T-4 hormone (a thyroid pro-hormone) only, but a patient’s problem could lie with the assimilation of the T-3 hormone (the thyroids active hormone). After T-4 enters cells it must be converted into T-3 which is the active active form of thyroid hormone (active OUTSIDE of your blood stream) it is what effects your mental health (depression), memory, fatigue, body temperature, muscle strength, cholesterol level, weight, hair, skin, nails, etc. A complete hormone panel is key too (estrogens, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, cortisol,melatonin). I prefer hormone testing using saliva over blood, which unfortunately, the majority of insurance plans do not cover. I feel it is money well spent.

Good Luck and Be Well.

Q: How will having a thyroid problem effect my life? Will anything be different?
I just found out I have a thyroid problem, not sure what kind yet though. What effects will it have on my daily life, will I always have it or does it do away. Are there any long term effects?

Thanks
Will I still be able to have children someday?

A: i have hypothroidism and it has been horrible. i started having anxiety and numbness every once in a while. once its leveled out with meds it does make things better. especially energy. once you start taking meds you will loose weight. make sure you take synthroid instead of levothyroxin or any other genectric brand. hope all goes well.

Q: How do you know if you have thyroid problem or if you anemic?
Im 17 years old and Im a girl, and from the things thats been happening and the way I have been feelings I think I might have a problem with my thyroid or I may be anemic. What are some signs of both and what causes them? Oh I do plan to go see the doctor! Im just a little worried! Thanks so much!

A: Cam,

Do yourself a favor and see your doctor. Thyroid issues and anemia can be found with simple blood tests. No sense in worrying when it’s easy to find out.

Good luck.

Q: What are some major thyroid problem signs?
I am young and curious if I have a thyroid problem what are some of the symptom’s.

A: 10. Muscle and Joint Pains, Carpal Tunnel/Tendonitis Problems.

Aches and pains in your muscles and joints, weakness in the arms and a tendency to develop carpal tunnel in the arms/hands and tarsal tunnel in the legs, can all be symptoms of undiagnosed thyroid problems. (For more information)

9. Neck Discomfort/Enlargement.

A feeling of swelling in the neck, discomfort with turtlenecks or neckties, a hoarse voice or a visibly enlarged thyroid can all be symptoms of thyroid disease.

To help find out if your thyroid may be enlarged, try a simple “Thyroid Neck Check” test at home.

8. Hair/Skin Changes.

Hair and skin are particularly vulnerable to thyroid conditions, and in particular, hair loss is frequently associated with thyroid problems. With hypothyroidism, hair frequently becomes brittle, coarse and dry, while breaking off and falling out easily. Skin can become coarse, thick, dry,and scaly. In hypothyroidism, there is often an unusual loss of hair in the outer edge of the eyebrow. With hyperthyroidism, severe hair loss can also occur, and skin can become fragile and thin.

7. Bowel Problems.

Severe or long-term constipation is frequently associated with hypothyroidism, while diarrhea or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is associated with hyperthyroidism.

6. Menstrual Irregularities and Fertility Problems.

Heavier, more frequent and more painful periods are frequently associated with hypothyroidism, and shorter, lighter or infrequent menstruation can be associated with hyperthyroidism. Infertility can also be associated with undiagnosed thyroid conditions. (For More Information)

. Family History.
If you have a family history of thyroid problems, you are at a higher risk of having a thyroid condition yourself. You may not always be aware of thyroid problems in your family, though, because among older people, it is often referred to as “gland trouble” or “goiter.” So pay attention to any discussions of glandular conditions or goiter or weight gain due to “a glandular problem,” as these may be indirect ways of referring to thyroid conditions.

4. Cholesterol Issues

High cholesterol, especially when it is not responsive to diet, exercise or cholesterol-lowering medication, can be a sign of undiagnosed hypothyroidism. Unusually low cholesterol levels may be a sign of hyperthyroidism.

3. Depression and Anxiety.

Depression or anxiety — including sudden onset of panic disorder — can be symptoms of thyroid disease. Hypothyroidism is most typically associated with depression, while hyperthyroidism is more commonly associated with anxiety or panic attacks. Depression that does not respond to antidepressants may also be a sign of an undiagnosed thyroid disorder. (For More Information)

2. Weight Changes.

You may be on a low-fat, low-calorie diet with a rigorous exercise program, but are failing to lose or gain any weight. Or you may have joined a diet program or support group, such as Weight Watchers, and you are the only one who isn’t losing any weight. Difficulty losing weight can be a sign of hypothyroidism. You may be losing weight while eating the same amount of food as usual — or even losing while eating more than normal. Unexplained weight changes and issues can be signs of both hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. (For More Information)

1. Fatigue.

Feeling exhausted when you wake up, feeling as if 8 or 10 hours of sleep a night is insufficient or being unable to function all day without a nap can all be signs of thyroid problems. (With hyperthyroidism, you may also have nighttime insomnia that leaves you exhausted during the day.) (For More Information)

If you have some of the above symptoms, your next steps should be to read Thyroid Disease 101, along with a visit to your doctor for a thorough thyroid evaluation.

Q: How can you tell if you have a thyroid problem?
I lose weight very easily, but just eating a couple of pieces of pizza can make me bloat and gain 5 pounds over-night. Is this a thyroid problem?

A: Here are the most common signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism. A blood test, preferably ordered and interpreted by an endocrinologist, is needed to make this diagnosis. The link below has more information about this disease:
Fatigue
Weakness
Weight gain or increased difficulty losing weight
Coarse, dry hair
Dry, rough pale skin
Hair loss
Cold intolerance (can’t tolerate the cold like those around you)
Muscle cramps and frequent muscle aches
Constipation
Depression
Irritability
Memory loss
Abnormal menstrual cycles
Decreased libido

Q: Can hairloss on a healthy Chihuahua be a sign of a thyroid problem?
My 2 year old Chihuahua has a lot of hairloss. He has a great appetite and is full of energy, but my vet told me he could have a thyroid problem. Has anyone ever heard of this or anything similar to this?

A: Thyroid problems can cause hair loss in dogs. Dogs usually get low thyroid levels rather than high. They are usually tired, seek out warmth, tend to gain weight and eat normal to less than normal amounts of food. Your dog is only 2 and young for thyroid problems but it happens. Make sure he gets 1. skin scrapings for mites, done by your vet. There are mites that are not itchy but still require treatment. 2. tested by culture (NOT just the black light) for ringworm and 3. Complete bloodwork including thyroid level. There are other endocrine things that can cause hair loss and some can be found on bloodwork.

I’m sure common sense will prevail here, but please don’t do that ice water thing that someone suggested. OMG!!

Q: I am suffering from thyroid problem and have become psychologically weak?
I am suffering from thyroid problem and have become psychologically weak. I am taking the medicines but i don’t know why i am feeling depressed?

A: Is it hypothyroidism that you have? It would have been useful if you’d given some more information about when you were diagnosed, what medication and dosage you’re on, how long you’ve felt this way etc

When you have an underactive thyroid, the medication you’re usuallly given is synthroid. The doctor will start you on a low dose and then check your levels with a blood test after approx 6 weeks. If your levels arn’t right then they will increase your dosage accordingly.

It can take a while to find the right dosage but until they do, you probably wont feel any better.

I think I am in pretty much the same situation to you. I was recently diagnosed with hypothyroidism and have been on a low dose – 50mcg for the past 6 weeks. I had a blood test yesterday and get the results next week. I’ve gained a lot of weight and feel very down a lot. Hopefully i’ll get my dose increased and feel better soon aswell.

Q: How can you lose weight when you have a thyroid problem?
I have a thyroid problem thats slows down my metabolism to the rate that its hard for me to lost weight, any suggestions?

A: You need the first thing in the morning TSH around 1.0 or weight loss will be almost impossible. You also need to be conveting T4 to T3. To find out if you are converting T4 into T3, get a free t3 test. If the result is below midrange switch to a T4/T3 medication like Armour.

As far as diet, avoid soy and increase fiber. Work your way up to exercising 1 hour at least 4 days a week.

thyroid weight loss forum below

Q: How can i lose weight healthily with a thyroid problem?
I have recently been diagnosed with hypothyroidism (an under active thyroid). This was after putting on 4.5 stone (over half my body weight as i weighed 8.5 stone before hand) in less than six months, even though my diet and exercise had not changed. obviously, i know the best way to lose weight is through diet and exercise, but i cant seem to shift the weight. is losing weight when you have a thyroid problem more difficult?

A: exerciseing with Jack is Great for getting rid of baby fat/weight http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TKCGe2Ezris

Q: Has anyone else found that they developed a thyroid problem after pregnancy?
I begged my doctor to check because I’ve been miserably tired and no matter how hard I try I’ve just been maintaining weight. Well, she checked, and I have a thyroid problem. Did anyone else find out pregnancy knocked their thyroid out of whack and did their doctor deny it as a possibility?

A: One of my good friends did after she gave birth to her second child (no problems after first). She did not start her period again and could not lose any weight and in fact put a bit more back on. She was getting very concerned that she might be pregnant again (her first 2 are only 15 months apart) but after no periods and the weight issues for 7 months the doctor did tests and found she had developed hypothyroidism. She was put on meds for about 9-12 months (sorry not too sure about that bit but know it was a long time) and she is perfectly fine now. Her doctor did initially deny it but agreed in the end that was what it was.

Q: When you have a thyroid problem does that make you gain weight?
Well I feel like I have gain just recently because I have some kind of health problem. So I went to the doctor and he said that my thyroid was not normal so he took some blood.

A: If you have an underactive thyroid, it is normal for weight gain…Your metabolism isn’t as active….If this is the case you can take a prescription called synthroid to bring your level back to normal…

Q: How would a 17 year old girl know if she has a thyroid problem?
How could she get a thyroid problem?

A: i have a thyroid problem and i am 16
my symptoms were hair loss, and i lost a lot of weight(you could also gain weight. it goes both ways)
and i had headaches EVERYDAY.

after seeing the doc. he gave me a little pink pill that i have to take everyday 30 min. before breakfast and i feel just fine(: