I'm discovering more and more that those of us who take Levothyroxine suffer with heart trouble. Since having my dose increased to 75mg three months ago, I began experiencing palpitations, light headedness and hot flushes. The longer I remained on 75mg I began experiencing palpitations daily. I went to a&e after suffering from chest pain and nausea, and ultimately had another EKG. This showed my heart was slower than normal and the Doctor suggested I needed my medication increased, however I am not due a blood test until April. He listened to my chest and said my second heart beat was louder but wasn't sure if it was because my heart was beating slower that it made it more prominent.
My concern is that on the increase of Levo previously, brought on these palpitations. What if I have it increased again and it gets worse? I am supposed to see an Endo in April so I will discuss my options then, but even then, being in the UK it doesn't seem like there is much alternative than Levo.
Why is this not recognised by Doctor's as an issue?
Written by
Hypo_juan
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The palpitations are more likely because you are undermedicated and hypo rather than a consequence of taking Levo, 75 mcg is a small dose and you likely need an increase.
As you previously had RAI and then were extremely hypothyroid after stopping your Levothyroxine you are likely to have low vitamin levels
For full Thyroid evaluation you need TSH, FT4 and FT3 tested. Also extremely important to test vitamin D, folate, ferritin and B12
Low vitamin levels are extremely common, especially if been hypothyroid for some time
Recommended on here that all thyroid blood tests should ideally be done as early as possible in morning and fasting. Last Levothyroxine dose should be 24 hours prior to test, (taking delayed dose immediately after blood draw). This gives highest TSH, lowest FT4 and most consistent results. (Patient to patient tip, best not mentioned to GP or phlebotomist)
Private tests are available. Thousands on here forced to do this as NHS often refuses to test FT3 or antibodies or all vitamins
Medichecks Thyroid plus ultra vitamin or Blue Horizon Thyroid plus eleven are the most popular choice. DIY finger prick test or option to pay extra for private blood draw. Both companies often have special offers, Medichecks usually have offers on Thursdays, Blue Horizon its more random
Many people find Levothyroxine brands are not interchangeable.
Once you find a brand that suits you, best to make sure to only get that one at each prescription. Watch out for brand change when dose is increased or at repeat prescription.
Many patients do NOT get on well with Teva brand of Levothyroxine. Though it is the only one for lactose intolerant patients
Always take Levo on empty stomach and then nothing apart from water for at least an hour after. Many take early morning, on waking, but it may be more convenient and possibly more effective taken at bedtime.
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