new blogger hoping to get answers

[Redmannix1]

Hi everyone.

I have recently been diagnosed with an underactive thyroid and would like to get to know a few things regarding medication and tests. I feel tired most of the time, although I work through this. I am also on 10 mg of citalopram for mild depression which I cope with ok.

I have been on 100 mg of Levothyroxine for about 1 year. my tests are good (last test approx 4 months ago)

Should I get tested more regularly.

are there dietry things I should be looking at.

would supplements help.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

[shaws Administrator]

Welcome to our forum ~Redmannix1

First, we have to read, learn and ask questions. Many people do fine on levothyroxine if at an optimum dose for them.

Some hints to help you to get the best possible relief of symptoms and normal health.

First, always get a print-out of your blood test results for your own records and if you have a query, members will respond.

Second, the tests have to be at the very earliest possible, fasting (you can drink water) and leave about 24 hours between last dose of levo and the test and take afterwards.

If doctor hasn't tested B12, Vitamin D, iron, ferritin and folate ask for these to be taken as we can be deficient.

Never accept the words 'normal', 'o.k.' 'fine' with regard to new results. We don't want normal etc, but we do want optimal. That means a TSH of 1 or lower with T3 and T4 towards the upper part of the range. Usually the lab only tests the TSH and T4. In fact and it is rarely taken the Free T4 and Free T3 gives a better idea of how much is circulating within our blood. T4 (levothyroxine) is inactive and it has to convert to T3 (active hormone) so we have to have an optimum dose of replacement hormones for us to feel well and provide sufficient T3.

[Redmannix1 in reply to shaws]

Thank you for the advice. I am new to all this so will be learning as I go. I have had my latest blood test today and did not take my Levo dose until after the test. I will ask for a copy when the results are back and post online for more info. Once again thank you for the advice.

[greygoose]

Hi Redmannix1, welcome to the forum.

If you live in the UK, you are at the mercy of the NHS for your testing and, I believe, they will only test once a year, once you are on a 'stable' dose. However, you should try to get tested six weeks after any change in dose.

One important thing about tests, though, you should always, always ask for a copy of your results. If you live in the UK, it is your legal right to have a copy. Then, if you have any questions to ask on here, you can post your results, with the ranges, and make it easier for people to answer your questions.

Do you have Hashi's? If so, a gluten-free diet might help. Otherwise, eat what agrees with you, and what you like. But, try and avoid processed foods and oils. And no fad diets, like fat-free, or salt-free!

The most important thing to avoid is unfermented soy. And, that's difficult, because it's found in most processed foods - including bread. Soy protein, soy flour, soy oil, etc. should all be avoided like the plague.

As for supplements, you should ask your doctor to test your vit D, vit B12, folate and ferritin, and supplement accordingly. All these need to be optimal for your body to be able to use the hormone you're giving it. But there are some things you can take without testing - and maybe should - vit C, magnesium, zinc, selenium. But, always start your supplements one at a time, and leave a couple of weeks before starting another one.

If you have any other questions, don't hesitate to ask.

[Redmannix1]

Thank you for the advice. I am new to all this so will be learning as I go. I have had my latest blood test today and did not take my Levo dose until after the test. I will ask for a copy when the results are back and post online for more info. Once again thank you for the advice.