Underactive Thyroid Gland

[ripon1756]

Does anyone feel very tired and like a zombie mid-day especially and can't keep eyes open and if so how do you deal with it?

[Clutter]

Ripon1756, can you post recent thyroid results with the ranges (figures in brackets after the results). Members will advise whether you are optimally medicated.

If you've had ferritin, vitamin D, B12 and folate tested post the results and ranges too. If not, ask your GP to test. Deficiency/low levels are common in hypothyroid patients and can cause musculoskeletal pain, fatigue and low mood, similar to hypothyroid symptoms.

[ripon1756 in reply to Clutter]

Thank you for your advice.

I live in the UK and, unfortunately, it's very difficult to get results to post to you. I've been told I have slight osteoporosis, although to be honest I don't take medication prescribed as I believe my problem was 2 nasty flare-ups of AVN 2 years ago which resulted in having to have 2 hip replacements in 1996 and 1998.

[Clutter in reply to ripon1756]

Ripon, the Data Protection Act entitles UK patients to their test results. Ask your GP receptionist for a printout of your recent results with the lab ref ranges. If the receptionist doesn't have the authority to release them ask to speak to the practice manager. Results requested within 40 days of test should be free of charge, apart from a nominal £1/£2 which the practice is entitled to charge to cover the costs of printer ink and paper. If the practice manager isn't helpful make a written subject access request for the results and ranges.

thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/NHS_In...

ico.org.uk/for_the_public/t...

My sister's osteopenia has improved since taking Alendronic Acid (not as frequently as directed) and since she started running.

[ripon1756 in reply to Clutter]

Thank you for your helpful advice. Although it was approximately 2 months ago since I had my thyroid tested.

I originally had an overactive thyroid gland and when a problem arose, I was given steroids for a very short while. Shortly afterwards I was given the radio active isotope which resulted in my thyroid going underactive and I was prescribed thyroxine tablets (called Levothyroxine now).

20 years later I was diagnosed with Avascular Necrosis due to steroids and had to have both my hip bones replaced in 1996 and 1998 respectively. Up to approx. 2 years ago everything was o.k. and then I had 2 nasty flare-ups where my first hip was replaced and, although I was told I had osteoporosis, I believe my left hip may be ready for replacement again. Fortunately, the pain has eased but I now walk with a cane and use an orthopaedic trolley for shopping.

So as you can imagine, I have several issues which could stem from my thyroid problem.

[Clutter in reply to ripon1756]

Ripon, you can still ask for your recent thyroid results. Most GP practices will give them to you.

Hyperthyroidism can cause bone loss in addition to steroids. You've been very unlucky.

[Glynisrose]

I crash round about 3 pm and there is nothing for it but an afternoon nap!!

[ripon1756 in reply to Glynisrose]

Yes that's the same as me.

I was reading the other day that an afternoon nap is good for everyone but, of course, you can't guarantee what you are doing or where you might be!!

[Glynisrose in reply to ripon1756]

I always plan ahead and my golden rule is one thing per day.

[ripon1756]

Thank you for your reply Londinium. In 1996 and 1998 respectively I had to have both my hip bones replaced due to Avascular Necrosis. I though this was caused by being given steroids for a very short for an overactive thyroid gland problem.

I was later given the radio active isotope which led to my thyroid gland going underactive and being put on thyroxine tablets (now Levothyroxine).

I had a DEXA scan 2 years ago after 2 nasty flare-ups and was told I had slight osteoporosis but I think it might be my hip bone might getting near replacement. At the moment I'm managing o.k. with a cane.

Anyway, I shall certainly get in touch with my doctor to get my latest thyroid results.

[ValTay]

Ripon 1756, I hope you benefit from the advice received re: thyroid etc. But my concern is about your sister taking alendronic acid. These meds (bisphosphonates) for osteoporosis have been discredited and shown to be dangerous by a recent meta-analysis. They work by interfering with bone turnover, which is necessary to maintain a balance of new and old bone, and result in an excess of old bone, which improves bone density and looks good on a DEXA scan, but is brittle and liable to break easily. Check out the Save our Bones website for lots of very helpful advice and info.

[ripon1756 in reply to ValTay]

Sorry Val Tay but I haven't got a sister or brother for that matter. However, I agree with everything you say about medication for Osteoporosis. I was prescribed Risedronate for this but I don't take it as I prefer to change my lifestyle as much as possible as I think like you that this medication is more detrimental to your health.