T3 - Facial Flushing

[Julia187]

Hi, I started on Liothyronine (T3) about 2 weeks ago and am pleased with the progress I've made, still room for improvement but I think I'm nearly there. I'm quite a rosy cheeked person anyway but have had really hot facial flushing since I started on it, will this go away in time and do I need to speak to my endo about it?

[Jackie]

Hi It could well disappear in time. Did you definitely need T3, ie was your FT3 test below range, must not be over. Unless just on T3, which is slightly different.What about levo,? Are you on both? That is the ideal combination if tolerated. Did you start the t3 on half a dose, and are you splitting it in half and taking half Am and half PM? Do you know you need another thyroid test, TSH, T4 and FT3 about 6 weeks after starting any thyroid meds or altering them You do get a high about 2 to 3 hours after taking T3. If still no answer, then ,I would take your BP, 3 times a day, to include when "red faced", BP does vary a little during the day. Do this for 2 weeks, then if no obvious answer, I would contact the Endo ( or even the GP, if good). Armed with the BP results etc

I hope that helps.

Best wishes,

Jackie

[Julia187]

I was doing ok blood test results wise on T4 but still felt exhausted all the time plus some other symptoms. My GP (who isn't very clued up on Thyroid it seems) referred me to an endo. We talked things through and we agreed that we would trial the T3/T4 combo to see if it helps with my tiredness (which it does seem to be). She told me to split the dose morning and evening but I found I couldn't sleep if I took the evening dose, even as early as 5pm so I'm taking it all in the morning. I'm taking 75mcg Levo and 10mcg Lio. I take the Levo in the morning too. The flushing starts about 4-5 hours after taking it, this morning I took the tablets at 6.15am and flushing started about 11am or so.

I've left a message with my consultants secretary to say I'm getting these flushes and the problems with not sleeping and she said if the consultants felt she needed to call me she would and just to carry on for the time being.

I'm seeing the consultant again in November when I'll have some more blood test.

[Kerrycat7]

Hi Julia

Let me know how you get on with this I have exactly the same thing!

Thanks

Kerry

[Julia187 in reply to Kerrycat7]

Hi

It did go in time, I’ve been on it 4 years now and take it as one dose first thing in the morning. I can’t remember how long it took to go I’m afraid but can’t think it was that long.

Julia