Do I still have hypothyroidism and why did my gp take me off levothyroxine 2 years ago, telling me my levels were fine!?

[gracefuldiy]

I'm 37 year old female, 6 years ago, I spoke with my very smart, active, will minded 89 year old grandmother, and told her my symptoms.

Extreme fatigue, weight gain, acne as if I was going through puberty again, thinning nails, globs of hair failing out in the shower, extreme constipation. I was even getting cavities. I never had a cavity until after 30.

She knew I had gained about 10lbs or more because I'm only 5'4" and weigh on average 125lbs. I'm petite but I eat very well.

I just felt awful!!

I had just had some major renovations on my home, but I was more excited than stressed out. It honestly freaked me out. She told me that she and my grandfather have had thyroid problems for 40 plus years.I was very eager to see my GP and he did tests and immediately started levothyroxine.

Fast forward to the end of 2022, my GP did regular blood testing to make sure my levothyroxine was at the correct dosage.

He said, your levels are fine now?!? I was very confused because the levothyroxine had been a game changer. My hair was healthy again. Nails super strong. I felt refreshed every day after a night's sleep. I asked over and over again if he was sure.

Now it's been 2 years and for the past year all symptoms have come right back but 10 fold, along with extreme anxiety!! I don't know what to do or where to start.

Most weekends I do not even want to get out of the bed. During the week I fall asleep right when I get home from work.

My diet has not changed. I think something's up. My best friend told me I may want to get my thyroid checked because it looked like it was protruding from my neck. She never knew I was ever treated for hypothyroidism. Oh great 🤦‍♀️.

This summer has been awful. I do have medical insurance through work.

I'm confused on why gp ever took me off medication.

Please help!

Evey ❤️

[MightyMay]

Your doctor took you off because he diid not know what he was doing. You were doing well because you were on the thyroid hormone medication that your body needed. That is why you were no longer symptomatic. Your doctor should have never taken you off levothyroxine. Your thyroid is struggling now , because it does not have the hormone that your body needs . You need to have your TSH, Free T3, FreeT4, Vitamins(D3, Folate, B12, Magnesium, Ferritin and Iron) labs done and then demand to have your levothyroxine restored.

[gracefuldiy in reply to MightyMay]

Thank you! 🙏

I'm honestly so angry! I refuse to go back there but want him to know that he really put my body in jeopardy.

[MightyMay in reply to gracefuldiy]

He certainly has...I hope that you can find a doctor that actually knows about thyroid and how to treat it. Your levels are probably out of range and that is why you are symptomatic.

[Anthea55 in reply to MightyMay]

I totally agree with MightyMay. Your doctor doesn't know a thing about the thyroid.

Is there another doctor in the practice?

Can you complain to the practice's office manager?

[Sleepman]

Do you have blood test results. That would help people to comment.

In UK doctors have to give them to us.

[gracefuldiy in reply to Sleepman]

Of course not, they didn't even give me the chance to ask for them. It's absolutely ridiculous. But, I bet I can get them, 2 years ago was not very long ago.I work in the dental field. I know a thing or 2 about getting records. However, my Dr at the time should have shown them to me and explained to me what the actual deal was. I don't think he even looked at my lab work.

I didn't have enough time to even process him telling me that. When he absolutely knew he had prescribed 3 months worth before blood work. I said huh? Aren't my levels supposed to be "fine" if you're treating me for hypothyroidism.?

I do not see the Dr anymore and reluctantly do not have gp anymore. But I definitely will very very soon!

I only see my psychiatrist every 3 months.

I'm trying to figure out the quickest way possible for more blood work and necessary medicine.

I've got to move forward. Thank you guys. It's been a rough year.

[BeePurple in reply to gracefuldiy]

Do you have the NHS app because you can see your test results on that through your GP record? Mine go way back. Also, depression and anxiety are definitely other symptoms of hypothyroidism. I have read many an article where people were suffering greatly with their mental health for it to change when medicated adequately. I'm sorry that you are going through this.

[gracefuldiy]

No, can I get that app? I do live in USA. And yes this has made my depression and anxiety triple as bad as it was. I'm just crying like a baby right now. Not knowing what to do with everything. It becomes too much.

[BeePurple in reply to gracefuldiy]

Ah, I see. The app is linked with our NHS number and records so unfortunately you won't be able to get it. Not sure about GDPR or data regulations in your state but it might be worth applying to get a copy of your test results for the last 5 years. You can't really carry on feeling this way, it is not right. If you are on Facebook the page Hypothyroid Mom is quite a good one too. You might be able to find people who can point in the direction of more help locally.

[serenfach]

You are not alone. We know how you feel. Your GP was an idiot and a dangerous one at that.

First things first - ask around, you will be surprised how many people have thyroid trouble, and see if they recommend anyone.

Second - make an appointment, tell them your story and get on thyroid medication as soon as you can. It can take a while to feel better as it is gradual, but you will get better.

Third - have a good sob, then have a treat - choccie bar, glass of wine, whatever you like. You have been done dirty, so now is the time to fight back. Go easy on yourself, it does get better. Sending a hug,