I'm newly diagnosed hypothyroid (following miscarriage in April this year) and have been on 25mg of Levothyroxine since August. My TSH was 6.3 before starting and as of today has come down to 4.6, the doctor has advised waiting another 6 weeks, testing again and adjusting dose then if necessary. Their target is to get my TSH down to 2.5, but they're worried about upping my dose now as my T4 is supposedly near the top end of the range already.
For the first two weeks or so on levo I felt great but since then have gradually felt worse. The puffiness and water retention in my feet dissipated almost immediately but since then has come back worse than ever and my hair is falling out, which hasn't been a problem previously.
We also haven't stopped ttc and have had no success so far. My doctor said to continue as normal but I know that there are mixed opinions on this.
I suppose I'm looking for opinions from those more experienced than I am on my doctor's plan for managing my levo dosage and my results so far. Also if anyone has any tips for dealing with water retention in the feet and hair loss please do share!
Thanks in advance.
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firearcade
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was test done early morning and last dose levothyroxine 24 hours before test
If you took levothyroxine before test it will give false high Ft4 result
Standard starter dose of levothyroxine is 50mcg
First thing is, do you have any other results and ranges apart from TSH
if not will need to get hold of copies.
You are legally entitled to printed copies of your blood test results and ranges.
The best way to get access to current and historic blood test results is to register for online access to your medical record and blood test results
UK GP practices are supposed to offer everyone online access for blood test results. Ring and ask if this is available and apply to do so if possible, if it is you may need "enhanced access" to see blood results.
What was FT4 - the result & range & was FT3 tested?
Most feel well with TSH around 1. FT4 top third of range & FT3 at least half way of range.
50mg standard starter dose & you been started on lower, do you know why?
You felt better initially as the dose top up levels but once it settles the dose replaces they failing levels - increases are required. So what you are describing is very usual.
With a TSH that high and high T4 I think you took your meds just before having the blood test. You definitely need an increase in Levo.
I would ask to retest sooner than 6 weeks. It's so important for conception and maintaining a pregnancy to have good thyroid levels. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Hi firearcade, I’m sorry to hear about your miscarriage.
What is your doctor suggesting to resolve your symptoms - gradually feeling worse, puffiness and water retention in your feet and your hair falling out?
My only suggestions are to sit with your feet raised and also raise your dose of Levothyroxine.
Also, to always obtain the actual numbers from test results I wonder what the fT4 figure really is? I suppose you could get a private test of TSH, fT4 and ft3 to even up the power differential between you and your doctor 😃
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