Newly diagnosed with hypothyroidism

[Sphynx11]

Hello! I’ve been recently diagnosed with hypothyroidism. Initial TSH test in early December noted high at 4.77. Follow up test 8 weeks later showed TSH as 5.29. Other values in attached image.

My first question is - is it hashimotos? Doctors answer was along the lines of “likely”.

2nd Q: I’m starting with homeopathic meds first (bovine thyroid extracts) - not sure if I am noticing a difference thus far. In fact, I’ve been having frequent cold-feeling symptoms, which are new. Should I wait it out or try the synthetics?

Last Q: as for lifestyle changes, would you suggest the first step to be avoiding gluten?

Thank you all in advance for your advice.

[radd]

Sphynx11,

Welcome to our forum.

Hashi is the most likely cause but your results are negative. This doesn’t wholly exclude however because antibodies may fluctuate and that is a very tight given range.

I am not a fan of glandulars and as your TSH is quite high, you may find it not quite enough to replace the missing thyroid hormones. However, if you state which bovine thyroid extracts you are taking, others may comment with their experiences, some of which I have read are very positive.

If you have Hashi/gut issues, then a gluten free diet is recommended. Have you had iron, VitB12, folate and Vit D tested as these are frequently low in hypo sufferers?

.

Hashimotos

thyroiduk.org/if-you-are-hy...

[Sphynx11 in reply to radd]

Thank you - very helpful. I’ve been taking the supplements for 2 weeks and I don’t think they’re working. In fact, I feel yuckier (a technical term 😝) - so next step is likely to ask for synthetic thyroid hormones. As for the other lab tests you mentioned, I haven’t been tested so will inquire.

The glandulars are from Standard Process:

1. Thytrophin PMG is a bovine thyroid supplement that is designed to support healthy thyroid function.*

Provides a unique profile of minerals, nucleotides, and peptides*

2. Symplex F, a supplement for women’s health, supports the healthy function of the ovaries and the adrenal, pituitary, and thyroid glands.*

Provides uniquely derived nucleoprotein-mineral extracts that support cellular health

Contains a combination of key ingredients from Ovatrophin PMG™, Drenatrophin PMG™, Pituitrophin PMG™, and Thytrophin PMG™

Made with bovine ovary PMG™ extract*

3. Trace Minerals-B12 combines important nutrients to support enzymatic reactions in the body.*

Spectrum of minerals that support a healthy body

Provides essential cofactors for healthy cell functioning

Provides iodine***which is required for healthy thyroid, spleen, and red blood cell functions

Among other functions, these trace minerals support ligament, cartilage, and bone structure; immune system response function and thyroid function; fat metabolism; and calcium utilization*

Excellent source of vitamin B12, iodine, zinc, copper and manganese

Is iodine desired or no? My niece who has hashi’s told me iodine could be toxic.

Thanks all!

[radd in reply to Sphynx11]

Sphynx11,

I haven’t seen this supplement brand mentioned on the forum. Perhaps they are more known in the States.

Symplex Is a glandular combo containing bovine ovary, pituitary, adrenal & thyroid, and Trace Minerals-B12 is self-explanatory but contains iodine. Combo nutrients/vits aren’t recommended until nutrients have been tested and deficiencies addressed as the contained amounts are only maintenance doses.

We need a certain amount of iodine to function well but it isn’t recommended for Hashi sufferers because can instigate additional thyroid activity that risks elevating antibodies, ie Hashi attack. Also once diagnosed with hypothyroidism you will need thyroid hormone replacement meds (synthetic T4, etc) which contain adequate iodine within the pills.

Thytrophin PMG contains bovine thyroid gland but the ingredients actually state ‘processed to substantially remove its thyroxine’. If you wanted to explore glandulars further some members advocate Metavive. You would need to put a new post up because I don't have details on the different formulations. However, as TSH has increased since December I too think you need some synthetic T4.