Half the thyroid removed.

[Loon76]

3 & a half years ago I had half my thyroid removed as there was a large cyst/goitre on it. Consultant said didn't need any medication as right side would grow to compensate! Thyroid test (TSH) is always "normal" yet since the operation I have gained 4 stone. I still watch what I eat, still exercise (running although injured at moment but still exercising). The nurse I see at asthma review (that's another story) is convinced I have hypothyroidism because of the number of symptoms I have. However doctors are not interested because of my "normal" thyroid levels. I am fed up fighting a losing battle. Fed up feeling like I am coming down with a cold but never developing into one. Fed up feeling tired, sluggish & like am losing my marbles. Has anyone had similar experience or does anyone have any recommendations as to any supplements or foods that could help?? I already take sea kelp to see if it woukd help with dry skin but it's not done much. Thanks in advance.

[Clutter]

Welcome to the forum, Loon76. Dry skin is a hypothyroid symptom. Sea kelp contains a lot of iodine which isn't too good for the thyroid and it has been used to reduce thyroid hormone production in hyperthyroid patients. As it isn't doing anything for your dry skin you may want to stop using it. 200mcg selenium or 3-4 Brazil nuts, can support thyroid function and you may want to try that.

'Normal' thyroid range is very broad. Ask your GP receptionist or practice manager for a copy of your thyroid results with the lab ref ranges and post them in a new question for advice.

As your GP appears to think your symptoms are non-thyroidal ask for ferritin, vitamin D, B12 and folate to be tested. Low/deficient levels are common in the months preceding hypothyroid diagnosis and symptoms include musculoskeletal pain, fatigue and low mood similar to hypothyroid symptoms.

thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/diagno...

[Loon76 in reply to Clutter]

Thanks. I actually have an appointment with gp next week so will ask about the things you mentioned.

[Loon76 in reply to Clutter]

Oh and I also have 9 nodules on my remaining thyroid gland but apparently these aren't causing any issues!!

[Clutter in reply to Loon76]

Loon76, nodules don't usually cause hypothyroid symptoms but they can cause swallowing and breathing problems if they become large enough to compress the trachea. Are the nodules periodically checked by ultrasound scan?

[Loon76]

They've not been checked for a couple of years now. I always have a sensation of something stuck in my throat & can feel as though someone is pressing on my windpipe especially if lying flat....but was told at end of last year it's globus. Just fed up of feeling rubbish & being made to feel it's my imagination 😳

[margieb]

I had the same . dietary changes made alll the difference. Look into Paleo...it's working for me...giving up gluten and healing my gut has kept me medication free for years... Even with am autoimmune disease I have energy , reduced pain and no longer struggle to stay awake in the afternoon. You know , that 2-3 pm window when your eye lids feel like cement even when you're talking to someone. Also, look into finding an Applied Kinesiologist. Focus is on you as an individual and not a statistical range.

[Loon76 in reply to margieb]

Thanks margieb! Will look into pales again...I quickly looked into it a while back but being vegetarian saw all the meat and thought oops not for me!!! But will look again...bound to be some way round it!!

[Loon76]

Thanks reallyfedup123. Roll on Thursday!! Bet they stil won't listen! What is NDT??