Feeling very exhausted of late, more than usual and very achy all over . I have fibromyalgia so symptoms all overlap so difficult to know what issue is causing these symptoms.
Last thyroid results in June within range, no change in dose and still on 75mcg thyroxine. GP has since checked my Oestrogen levels (went into a surgical menopause at 46) and been on HRT transdermal patches 100 ever since.
My oestrogen results are abnormal at 19 andI have a follow up telephone call in a week to discuss. I’m presuming they are that low because I’m not absorbing patch well for whatever reason? I change patch religiously and they stay stuck to skin never falling off.
I have read that when on both thyroxine and HRT your thyroxine should be increased? When I have requested this in the past GP refuses saying I don’t need more as within the lab parameters!
Just asking really any fellow sufferers who are on both thyroxine and HRT who have had abnormal oestrogen levels what their advise would be and to discuss at the follow up. Should I have a bone density scan as I have never had one and feel that my bones may have been affected due to minimal oestrogen being absorbed.
Can you share your most recent thyroid blood test results with us, so we can offer better advice. Ideally we need to see TSH, FT3 and FT4.Please ask for a print out of your thyroid tests as when GPS say ‘within range’ or ‘normal’ this may not be optimal for you.
Most GPS and even some endocrinologists don’t routinely test FT3 and some only test FT4 if TSH is not in range. That’s why so many forum members test privately for TSH, FT3, FT4, thyroid antibodies and key vitamins (ferritin, folate, vitamins D and B12). Many members use Medichecks or Blue Horizon.
Regarding questions around HRT, it may be useful to have a look at Dr Louise Newson’s free Balance App, as I find it really useful for comparing HRT medications & having up to date research articles. There is also an ability to post questions. Personally I found the gel better than patches to improve oestrogen levels. Many forum members report needing an increase in thyroid medication when on HRT. However, I actually needed less, so testing thyroid levels is extremely important
Most members here report feeling best with TSH under 1.
For a complete picture of your thyroid health, we need to see FT3 readings alongside TSH and FT4. I would look to do this privately, alongside key thyroid vitamins and share with us when you get the results.
Recommended that all thyroid blood tests early morning, ideally just before 9am, only drink water between waking and test and last dose levothyroxine 24 hours before test
This gives highest TSH, lowest FT4 and most consistent results. (Patient to patient tip)
Private tests are available as NHS currently rarely tests Ft3 or all relevant vitamins
List of private testing options and money off codes
Medichecks and BH also offer private blood draw at clinic near you, or private nurse to your own home…..for an extra fee
Yes, yes and yes.
I had a surgical menopause at 47 which included removal of ovaries. In spite of 10 years on transdermal oestrogen (patches) which promised that I would enter the promised land of ‘no osteoporosis / no heart disease’ I am now severely osteoporotic and about to go back onto HRT as a means of managing it.
If you start taking Oestrogen whilst on thyroid meds, you will usually have to increase thyroid hormones
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