Hi everyone.
Over the last two years I’ve learnt so much from this site and I’m very grateful. I’m looking for some advice relating to my hypothyroid symptoms.
I was diagnosed nearly three years ago and am taking 50mg of Teva. My symptoms arrived suddenly, and I still have bouts of anxiety and depression which are getting worse. The symptom which is causing me most problems is temperature swings (I overheat), which leads to burning in the soles of my feet, palm of my hands, lips and at times, my scalp. It is worse at night. In the winter I get very little sleep. I’ve been sleeping under a folded duvet cover with a light blanket to hand if I get a little chilly (1tog duvet has been to hot for me) but last night I woke freezing and shivering and had to pull the duvet over the top of me.
I still have bouts of anxiety/depression (mostly at about 4pm lasting a few hours, which worsens in the winter)
I’ve had variety of tests, most of which I’ve instigated since my GP (I’ve seen about seven in my surgery) has no ideas but is adamant that these symptoms are not down to my hypothyroidism. My T3 has been low but it’s in range so they’ve refused to consider it. I’ve seen a Neurologist who also had no idea, with her only option being painkillers for the burning symptom.
I suggested to my GP that I go to a private consultant which he agreed with. I keep thinking this may be a general hormone issue. I really need some advice since I’m not sure what type of consultant I should go to. To complicate the issue, I had a female hormone blood test done and the results mean very little to me and seem strange. (All protocols suggested on this site followed)
I used the Thyroid calculator to work out the % for TSH, T3 and T4 but they seem bizarre and so very different from my previous results, and I can’t believe they are true.
6th Nov 2023 Private onedaytests
Free T4 1.25 ng/dL (0.93 - 1.71) 41.0%
Free T3 3.00 pg/ml (2.02 - 4.43) 40.7%
TSH 2.49 uIU/mL (0.27 - 4.2) 56.5%
25 Feb 2023 NHS
Free T4 (fT4) 19 pmol/L (12 - 22) 70.0%
Free T3 (fT3) 3.7 pmol/L (3.1 - 6.8) 16.2%
TSH 2.38 mIU/L (0.3 - 4.20) 53.3%
T4:T3 Ratio 5.135
I also take Losartan Potassium which I have found out can have siders effects of burning feet, hands and lips but I’ve been taking this for 15yrs so don’t think this is the cause but could request a different medication.
Do you think an Endocrinologist will cover this area and if so, can someone recommend a good one please? I live in London but am prepared to travel.
Thankyou