Returning to exercise

[Cerysk1]

I had a Thyroid crisis in March. My main symptoms since have been palpitations and extreme muscle weakness. I was unable to stand or walk for about a month. I’m slowly building up my strength and I’m now able to walk at a normal pace for about half an hour. Before my crisis I was a runner and ran about 4 times a week. Has anyone got any experience of returning to exercise after a crisis and how long it took? I want to get back to it, but don’t want to set my recovery back. I’m quite anxious now every time my heart rate increases, which isn’t helpful if I want to run!

[shaws Administrator]

You haven't put any history in your Profile and it would be helpful if you could complete a little bit of history in it. Any members can then read about it if you post future questions and have a little bit of knowledge about your condition.

I note from another post that you have suffered from hyperthryoidism, and I hope you have a good doctor .

Those who have/had hyperthyroidism will respond. If you are feeling better you could always start off with a little bit of low impact training, i.e. walk or swim to help your energy to return but don't overdo it.

[ling]

Hi Cerysk1.

You wrote in your earlier post that you have Graves. Could you share your TRAb or TSI antibodies results? And other blood test results, with ranges, if you have them.

Reading both your posts, I believe your strenuous exercise tipped you over into full blown Graves.

Now is not the time to be exercising.

Physical exercise in Graves is a trigger for symptoms.

And you are right. Going back to exercising could definitely set back any improvements you have made.

The fact that you can walk 30 minutes shows your condition is improving. Give yourself a pat on the back, and take it easy. This thing is going to take some time to stabilise. Make sure you take your carbimazole as prescribed.

Also, the fact that you used to be so fit, if u don't overdo it, this advantage will be helpful in your eventual recovery.

Lastly, mental stress and anxiety are also triggers for Graves symptoms.

You were pretty ill 3 months ago, and u are still experiencing symptoms. Give your body the time it needs to heal. In the meantime, work on having a better diet and getting quality rest to help your body in its fight back to health. You can do it.

[Cerysk1 in reply to ling]

Thank you so much for this reply. Yes it was my exercise that caused the problem. The trouble is running is so good for my mental health which is why I’m keen to get back. But I’ve learned a valuable lesson that without my physical health my mental health is poorly and I need to listen to my body. I don’t have any of my blood results but I’m seeing my endo next week so I can ask him for them. Thank you so much for helping me get some perspective on this again! Time to stop pushing myself!!

[ling in reply to Cerysk1]

2 things.

When getting blood tests, remember to get TRAb and FT3 done.

TRAb levels will indicate Graves disease activity. So even if u feel well, but your TRAb level is high, you should hold off too much physical activity in your case.

FT3 is a hormone that affects the heart. Have it tested to get a full picture of your Graves status.

Best wishes to you : )