T3, combination therapy and NHS Addenbrookes.

[crazykoala]

Hi all, I wonder if any of you can private msg me any information on Addenbrookes NHS service. I've been on Levothyroxine for 8 yrs and have felt worse and worse over that time. I have had previous borderline low t3 results but all doctors have been reluctant to prescribe me any t3. My doctor is referring me to Adenbrookes endocrine department and I would like to know if anyone has experience of it there and whether they consider t3 treatment? I am hoping they will investigate my adrenals more thoroughly to. Am I wasting my time here, are all NHS specialists the same? Should I just go private( I have a list but any private recommendations, not so far from Norfolk would be great!) Also are any of you finding t3 in combination with t4 a benefit? I have been having swelling hands, palpitations, exhaustion, low blood pressure and chronic headaches on t4 only and find I feel better when I skip a dose!

Many thanks, I really appreciate any help!

[jimh111]

I went to Addenbrooke's many years ago they were helpful up to a point. I doubt they will investigate adrenals unless there are clear signs of an adrenal problem. I don't subscribe to a lot of the stuff written about adrenals and thyroid, certainly many patients disagree. I would go to Addenbrooke's as you have nothing to lose other than some time. They are carrying out some research at the moment looking for biochemical markers for cellular thyroid activity, so in the long run it might not be a bad idea to form a relationship with them. They certainly won't be any worse than any other NHS hospital!

[Treepie]

I have read a number of posts from people who are doing better on a combination ,others who found T3 only the way to go.