Hypothyroid symptoms

[tiredjoe55]

Hello. This is my first post here, I have had nearly all the generally listed symptoms of hypothyroidism for years. I gave up alcohol two months ago and since then all my symptoms have got noticeably worse. I'm wondering if I was really self medicating with the alcohol? Perhaps numbing some symptoms and blaming the rest on drinking too much?

I have seen the doc at least eight times for these symptoms in the last 12 years (I was 43 then, and my libido had just disappeared almost over night!) Every time I had blood tests for Testosterone, B12 and Thyroid, And every time they have allegedly been normal. I've been offered no treatment or any advice. (I should note that my drinking was never problematic, and I lead a very healthy and happy life symptoms not withstanding , but I felt I drank too much, so stopped)

My tiredness is now affecting my life and work. I'm generally cold, my body temp is always low, I always hurt somewhere, and I have to take electrolytes where ever I go as I can get debilitating cramp at the drop of a hat. Skin is dry, nails are ridged, and still no libido. I also get regular bouts of depression that are becoming harder to control/get over.

I'm talking to the doc later today, and I'm sure he/she will recommend blood tests once more, and once more they will come back negative.

I wonder if anyone could recommend reading material/ books on how to understand this condition, (if it is hypothyroidism) and how I can get tests, diagnosis and treatment.

Thank you.

Tired Joe

[PurpleNails Administrator]

Hello & Welcome to the forum

“normal” fine or ok as doctors allege - may actually mean the initial thyroid test is within (if if just within) the NHS lab reference range.

When a GPs checks for thyroid issues the lab tests for Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). It a pituitary hormone (not a thyroid hormone) and it signals the thyroid to make new hormone. If the thyroid hormone are low the TSH rises. A healthy TSH is around 1. In some countries you are hypothyroid and treated at 3. The NHS range is higher & sometimes treatment is offered until it reaches 10.

You need to find out what has been tested and what the results are.

For full thyroid function you need

TSH

FT4 (the free thyroxine)

FT3 (the free triiodothyronine)

A high percentage of underactive thyroid is caused by an condition called autoimmune thyroiditis in uk, also know as Hashimoto’s. It is confirmed by testing antibodies. If FT4 & FT3 look low these should be tested.

Thyroid Peroxidase (TPO) and

Thyroglobulin (Tg).

Important to check key nutrients. B12, ferritin, folate and vitamin D. These are often low if hypothyroid and can mimic or compound hypo symptoms.

Do you have access to your records? Online access is excellent if your practice offers it - set it up. If not approach practice reception and obtain copies & don’t accept verbal or hand scribbled notes you need a printed copy, this will have sample date & ranges (ranges vary between labs so essential).

Many use private companies as GP refuse to do a complete test

thyroiduk.org/help-and-supp...

[tiredjoe55 in reply to PurpleNails]

That's really kind of you to reply, thank you. I will look into getting my previous results from my doctors.