Doctor didn't check my Adrenals before giving m... - Thyroid UK

Thyroid UK

137,883 members161,697 posts

Doctor didn't check my Adrenals before giving me Levothyroxine

Maxxxx profile image
5 Replies

Hi - I've been reading a lot lately (on Thyroid UK) about the need to check Adrenal glands before starting levothyroxine. The problem is that my doctor didn't do that - I started levothyroxine about two years ago.

About a year ago I had my cortisol levels checked and they were too high in the morning and dipped very low after lunch which co-incidentally is when I crash and sometimes need to go back to bed.

Does anyone know what if anything I could/should be doing to fix my adrenal glands and has starting the levothyroxine before fixing them caused lasting problems.

Thanks in advance.

Written by
Maxxxx profile image
Maxxxx
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
Read more about...
5 Replies
Clutter profile image
Clutter

Maxxxx,

GPs rarely test adrenals when they prescribe Levothyroxine. Manufacturers advise that they should when someone has been undiagnosed for a long time to avoid precipitating an adrenal crisis due to LOW cortisol. If Levothyroxine had affected your adrenals it would have done so within a couple of months of starting Levothyroxine I think.

I would retest cortisol as you last checked it a year ago in case something has changed.

Maxxxx profile image
Maxxxx in reply to Clutter

Thank you Clutter for replying. It's amazing that you're always on hand to answer all the questions day or night!!!

I do have LOW cortisol in the afternoon (and I certainly feel it) but you're right I need to check the levels again.

Just wondering if anyone knows how to repair the adrenals?

Thanks again.

Clutter profile image
Clutter in reply to Maxxxx

Maxxxx,

You HAD low cortisol in the afternoon a year ago. It may have changed for better or worse which is why you need update results before deciding on action.

Heloise profile image
Heloise in reply to Maxxxx

There are great internet advisors. I like Dr. Bergman but also Axe, Kessler.

youtube.com/watch?v=SDphVgA...

Maxxxx profile image
Maxxxx

Thanks so much Heloise! I will have a look.

You may also like...

adrenal fatigue should I change from levothyroxine

.I have been taking levothyroxine for about 20 years does anyone know more about this or Addisons?...

my doctor gives me omeprazole,

rheumatoid arthritis, I was wondering about the affects this has on my thyroid meds, I take them a...

Doctor is finally giving me carbimazole

mentioned about my iron levels he did say em they are a little lower but nothing to get excited...

Dont know if my levothyroxine is giving me problems?

My surgery to have my thyroid removed was 4months ago and I have been on 75microgramms. The blood...

Should the doctors take my levothyroxine away?

worried about my GP reducing my levothyroxine. I am 39 years old and I've had an underactive...