Prednisolone use and fluctuating thyroid levels... - Thyroid UK

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Prednisolone use and fluctuating thyroid levels Hypo or Hyper

pomeranion profile image
6 Replies

I am having symptoms of both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. They fluctuate throughout the day. I will start to sweat and feel warm and then feel cold (feet). I have been suffering with dry skin, flaky with sores on face and scalp. Now I have started itching which is very uncomfortable. My Dr. just put me on 37mcg Levothyroxine (only one week) after I had discontinued any Levo. because of these painful symptoms. I know I probably made symptoms worse, but I was desperate because my Endocrinologist dismissed my symptoms. My OBY/GYN ordered tests and I had gone from TSH .934 to 4.34. Anyone suffering with this. I also have PMR and RA. I have posted this previously. Thank you for those replies. Just wondering if anyone else has any additional information. I'm really desperate.

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shaws profile image
shawsAdministrator

I am sorry you are having awful symptoms.

I have looked on your personal 'page' but there's no history of your background to finally be diagnosed as Hypothyroid.

I am aware you've put some information on that page but if it is all on your personal page you only need to do it once and members can read it as they need some background before responding without you having to repeat it every time you put up a new query.

You can click on my name and I've put my history - just for an example although it might not be perfect.

Try taking one antihistamine tablet one hour before your next dose and if it helps, I would trial an alternative from another pharmaceutical company just in case it uses different fillers/binders in their tablet. Whatever you've undergone sounds awful and it's no wonder you are desperate for help.

pomeranion profile image
pomeranion in reply toshaws

I'm sorry it has taken so long to reply. My brain fog and fatigue has made my life intolerable. Having had my vitamin levels checked by my OB/GYN has helped diagnose my low iron. She has added an iron supplement. I am now on 37mcg. Levo. Feeling a little better. Skin not sodry and scaly. Will be seeing Dr. again in 2 weeks. I hope to see continued improvement. Especially my mood swings. I get so irritable that I don't recognize myself. Even my son has noticed it. I also get confused and my concentration is affected. Thank you for your compassion and all the help I have received on this forum.

shaws profile image
shawsAdministrator in reply topomeranion

37mcg of levo is very small unless you have a heart problem.

I am not medically qualified but 50mcg levo is a starting dose, with an increment of 25mcg every six weeks until you feel better and symptoms begin to resolve.

Ask GP to also test iron, ferritin and folate, Vitamin D, and Vitamin B12.

B12 very important because if it's low Doctor has to exclude that we do not have Pernicious Anaemia because if we have P.A. we have to ensure we get regular B12 injections as it could lead to a more serious condition.

pomeranion profile image
pomeranion in reply toshaws

I will mention the Levo dosage to my Dr. She tested all of the levels mentioned. All OK except the ferritin.

Prescribed supplement.

I will check the B12 again. Very interesting. Thank you.

posthinking01 profile image
posthinking01

Hi as you seem to have a problem tolerating thyroid meds are you sure you aren't lactose intolerant so that the medication is not being absorbed.

pomeranion profile image
pomeranion in reply toposthinking01

Thank you for your reply. Yes, I am lactose intolerant. After my OB/GYN ordered additional tests that my previous Endocrinologist did not shows I am absorbing. After all the additional tests she has adjusted my vitamin supplements. The additional iron supplements have already helped with my bowel movements and fatigue. I didn't realize that the vitamin adjustments could be so effective. I am now on 37mcg. Levo. I've learned so much on this forum. With all the encouragement to reach out for help it has emboldened and helped me. I'm so thankful I found this site.

I

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