Secondary Hypothyroidism…anyone?

[CallMeSunny]

I’m trying to build information for an upcoming appointment with my rheumatologist and have discovered from recent blood tests that I may have secondary hypothyroidism (my symptoms certainly fit). I know there is a link between Methotrexate usage and secondary hypothyroidism. Does anyone have this diagnosis and be able to tell me what treatment they have had please? I have a Sero-negative Inflammatory Arthritis diagnosis and currently on 22.5mgs subcut MTX but I suspect it’s losing it’s efficacy…..either that or, if I do have secondary (central) hypothyroidism, is my arthritis being exacerbated by the hypo? Cause and effect? Chicken and egg? I’d be grateful for any insights. Best wishes to all…and many thanks for this incredibly helpful and supportive community.

[medway-lady]

I’m not sure the link is as you see it is correct. The link is in my view more likely to be between RA, and Hashimotos Disease both of which are AI. Hypothyroidism is very easily diagnosed and treated. It is extremely common so really you need to ask your GP for more advice. If it helps I’ve has Hashi for over 40 years, it is really not an issue and I just get blood tests and take the medication every day. The symptoms of Hypothyroidism are fatigue, etc and can mimic some RA symptoms so really it vital to see your GP.

[CallMeSunny in reply to medway-lady]

Thanks Medway-lady. I will be seeing both my rheumatologist and GP. Following is the link I had found….

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/374....

Conclusion: Methotrexate is associated with decreased TT4 levels in RA patients, and glucocorticoids is associated with decreased TT3 levels. Drugs of RA treatment may affect the thyroid function of patients while treating RA, which may be one of the causes of secondary thyroid diseases in RA patients.

[medway-lady in reply to CallMeSunny]

Honestly I’m still not convinced and it’s easy to prove as Hashi means antibodies and GP does a blood test. The NHS tests T3 T4 and TSH and so best talk to GP although the difference may be minimal. There is a wide band of normal so your GP may do a couple of tests to stabilise a problem because over treating thyroid can causes even more problems. Like palpitations and anxiety.

[CallMeSunny in reply to medway-lady]

I totally hear what you say m-l…. Definitely will be discussing/testing!