Graves, Multi Nodular, Hyper No More: Hypothyroidism Is Here

[AshleighJade]

Hello All,

I am 6 days post my Thyroidectomy. I am trying to learn as much as I can. My research has led me to T4, T3, RT3, Synthroid, Glycogen, Glycine, and more. Please feel free to give me any advice that will assist me through this process. All advice will be considered and taken very seriously, as I would like to survive as you have.

-A.J.

[Clutter]

Welcome to the forum, Ashleighjade.

As you will only have been taking Levothyroxine for 5 or 6 days there's no need to worry about high rT3 which is usually caused by a build up of unconverted Levothyroxine.

The goal of Levothyroxine is to restore the patient to euthyroid status. For most patients that will be when TSH is 1.0 or lower with FT4 in the upper range. FT4 needs to be in the upper range in order that sufficient T3 is converted. Read Treatment Options in thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/about_...

For maximum absorption Levothyroxine should be taken with water 1 hour before, or 2 hours after, food and drink, 2 hours away from other medication and supplements, and 4 hours away from calcium, iron, vitamin D supplements and oestrogen.

It takes 7-10 days for Levothyroxine to be absorbed before it starts working and it will take up to six weeks to feel the full impact of the dose. Starting dose may need adjustment following blood tests and hypothyroid symptoms (if any) may lag behind good biochemistry by several months.

You should have a follow up thyroid test 6-8 weeks after starting Levothyroxine. Arrange an early morning and fasting (water only) blood draw when TSH is highest, and take Levothyroxine after your blood draw.

thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/about_...

[AshleighJade in reply to Clutter]

Thank You Clutter.

[AshleighJade in reply to Clutter]

Clutter,

Question, when should I feel the change and horrible feelings of hypothyroidism? My procedure was on the 18th and the only symptoms I have include-slight chills, insomnia, and giddiness. What more will happen? No new blood work. I'm simply thyroid free and on Norvasc, Atenelol, Levothyroxine, Calcium, Vitamin D, and B Complex.

When will the horrible moments come??

[Clutter in reply to AshleighJade]

Ashleighjade,

They won't if your Levothyroxine dose is right. The worst that is likely to happen is you will be a little overmedicated or undermedicated so symptoms should be mild and will improve when your dose is adjusted.

Makes sure to take Levothyroxine away from other medication and supplement as I outlined above.

[AshleighJade in reply to Clutter]

Yes they are far away from everything else. There are so many rules I feel somewhat like a transplant patient. Thank you again Clutter.

[Clutter in reply to AshleighJade]

AshleighJade,

They're just tips to help you get the best out of your meds and blood tests.