After I first began exhibiting signs of hypothyroidism, I discovered that getting diagnosed with a thyroid imbalance can be quite difficult.  When I finally found a doctor who was knowledgeable on the topic, I was ecstatic.  I soon realized, however, that my difficult journey to diagnosis was not unique nor unusual. 

There are many women who have encountered similar difficulties with hypothyroid related issues.  Here, I have posted some of the stories that have been shared with me.

Some of these stories might sound familiar to you.   When I was experiencing the same thing years back, I felt completely alone.  This section of my site is intended to show that we are not alone! 

LIONA'S STORY part I

I'm 52, been in menopause for 4 yrs, am at least 20 lbs overweight since then.  Even though I eat less & better than before (95% organic no junk food), have no energy or drive I have to push myself to do things. I am trying to find out what is wrong with my body to get it balanced.

I found Dr Shames book's very interesting and that made me think from the quiz results that I was having problems with my thyroid (as well as my adrenals, and since I've been in menopause with dreadful symptoms I knew my ovaries were not producing Estrogen, progesterone, testosterone)

All my life I have had very low energy, been cold easily, never perspired (until menopause then the hot flash's & night sweats made my life hell) 

I did check out my thyroid with an endocrinologist when I was in my 30's who did the standard tests & told me it was "all in my head".  I remember 1 test done with a radioactive pellet?

I started to take my axillery temperature 06/06/06 which was 92.5. 

I am a massage therapist & was able to order Biogenisis bioThyro & MetaboStim through Emerson ecologics. (They are natural products for Licenced practictioners for stimulating low Thyroid, the 1st containing 150 mg of thyroid from New Zealand cattle) 

I started 1 per day  Biothyroid & 1 -3x a day of MetaboStim.

My TSH w/ reflex 4 was 2.47... 6/12/06 (suspicious according to Shames book)

TSH   (dif. lab) 1.51.....  6/23/06

My progesterone levels 1.4

testosterone    total 15% free 0.49        free 0.7

estrogen total 208

My arm temperature has fluctuated from 95.0 to 96.7 the average being 96. I also began taking my oral temperature, which averages around 96. Taken later in the day it has risen at times to 98.0.

The doctor says my test results are in a normal range, and perhaps I have just a low body temperature?

I realize that taking bio-identical estrogen (since June 6/06) can have an effect on the thyroid, however without it  - for the last 4 months -  I got perhaps only 3-4 hrs sleep a night.  I am balancing it out with progesterone and also taking 1mg of melatonin before bed and 25mg Dhea & prenolerone for the adrenals 1st thing in the morning.

I have also noticed for the last few days my throat has been very sore on waking, gargling w/ apple cider vinegar helps a bit.

I have been so tired the last 4 yrs, no drive, I don't get excited about anything, my mood swings have been mostly feeling very irritable, I don't feel like having relations with my husband,  (I used to have a great sex drive) I look like I am at least 5 months pregnant, all my weight being around my stomach, hips.

The good news now -  since mid June is of course that I am sleeping very well for at least 7 hrs each nite. The hot flash's have stopped, I am more clear headed and can remember things, can put my thoughts together & express myself. (very frustrating before, which made it worse). For all those things I am really grateful. 

Liona

July 10, 2006

Contact Margie for Liona’s E-mail Information

LIONA'S STORY part II

Aloha Margie, just wanted to give you an update. I was taking MetabolStim & BioThyro by biogenisis. 

I am a massage therapist and was able to order them through Emerson ecologics which is a wholesale consolidator of Alternative healing products available to Health professionals.  The formulation & rational "sounded excellent". I was taking 1 biothyo about 6:30 am & 3 of the other 1/2 hr before eating. (breakfast, lunch dinner)

I did notice a slight change in body temperature, but it still wasn't high enough to be "normal" . The thing is that I became so fatigued I could barely make it thru the day. Then I re-read sections of both Mary Shoman's book in which she states that each time she tried iodine, (pg. 121) she noticed a crash of energy. She did this 3 times each time being barely functional. Thyroid power by Richard Shames also says that iodine is not good to take. There was 67mcg of iodine in each metabolstim and 75 mcg in the biothryo.

I'm thinking of contacting Biogenisis reporting my findings & asking for a refund. May not happen but I think that they should re-think the formula so others don't go thru what I have.

I stopped taking the 1st and only 1 biotho of the second til my second order came from Emerson in which I ordered Vinco's metabolic ignition  I started this friday last week. (the formula is available on-line on their website as well as the rational behind it.  It is made of glandulars from New Zealand which are grass fed)

The next day I already noticed a change in the way I felt, I had some energy.  My moring temperature (I've just started to do oral as it's faster)  was up to 97.2. Now in the morning it is 97.7 & it hits 98.1 later in the day. The good thing is that I finally have a feeling of energy, I can do things without feeling like I'm kicking a dead horse.

I'm on an organic diet, started a week ago using a product called ONE Up which is made by a man in Arizona, fresh each time its ordered.  It contains every vitamin, mineral, amino acid ect & is mixed in a smoothie in the morning.  If interested I'll find out the contact as I got it thru a friend.  It isn't multilevel, & the man is in total integrity will only make it with the finest ingredients, if they aren't available he won't make it for you til it is.

I've been mixing 1 tbsp of it with 1 tsp each  of maca, Green foods magma plus, standard process calcifood powder, 1/2 cup of green tea, 2 tbsp each of lichi berries (available thru mountain rose herbs about $15 lb. cheaper & I find better than gogi) flax seed powder. 1 tsp organic molassas, 1/2 c. fresh orange or apple juice.

That keeps me going for 2 hrs then I have steel cut oats with 1 tsp of rice miso, usually a sandwich for lunch, and dinner is organic fish, chicken, lamb or steak with a big salad (sometimes a bit of brown rice). I've also made great desserts like carrot & chocolate cake totally organic, using barley flour & olive oil rather than butter.  molassas, maple syrup instead of sugar and a lovely frosting made of coconut milk, dates, cashews, sunflower seeds. They are wonderful & good for you in small portions, if you like I will send you the recipes.

I am also noticing a small change in my stomach looking a bit flatter which after looking pregnant for 4 yrs is a very wonderful thing!

I finally seen to have the HRT using bio-identical hormones sorted out as well which is something that has been a problem over the yrs.

I would highly recommend the vinco product.  I am not sure if it can be ordered by non professionals on line or not. It certainly could be ordered thru a massage therapist, chiropractor, doctor, naturopath. 

Liona

July 23, 2006

Contact Margie for Liona’s E-mail Information

KRISTIN'S STORY

I just got back from the doctors office. She said my TSH was 3.8 which in conjunction with my basal body temp was high. I mentioned to her that I had done some research online and that there is a theory out there that the high end of the range should be 2 not 5. She agreed especially when showing symptoms. She also stated that she believes that the best place (feel the best) is at 1.0. I was very impressed with her, she was very open to starting me on a low dose. She prescribed 50mg but told me to start with 25mg (1/2 tabs) if that works and there is no drop in energy after 2 weeks to stay but she also felt I would most likely need to do 50mg. She also looked back at my old results and noted the steady increase and based on that felt I would have been way over 5 in a year or so and further in the hole, physically and mentally. I really hope this helps, I am looking forward to more energy levels, less grouchiness and starting some weight loss. Thanks for the response, if there is anything else you know of to help me along the path to normal, it would be greatly appreciated.  

Kristin

June 26, 2005

Jkrgfriend01@aol.com

BRANDEE'S STORY

I just wanted to share the good news from my appointment today with Dr. Holtorf.

First of all, I have lost 20 pounds since February! And I am not doing anything different...except taking T3 thyroid, other NATURAL hormones,and my other supplements.

My "bad" cholestorol, which was ridiculously high, is now normal. Insulin is now normal. Iron is now normal. Virtually EVERYTHING is now where it should be!

I am so happy! I feel soooo much better, and I look better, too! I've gone from hearing comments like, "You look tired," and "Your face looks puffy," to "You look great. Did you get work done?" LOVE IT!

I am not feeling fatigued like I was, and I don't have leg cramps, muscle pain or even my migraines anymore! So, THERE IS HOPE!!! I just had to share that with you, and with anyone else who is going through this. Like you say, "Find your Dr. Right!" And it WILL work. You WILL get better! 

Brandee

June 22, 2005

Brandee5678@hotmail.com

KAREN'S STORY

I am a 44 year old married woman, with one child. My health has been on a steady decline for quite a few years, although the only definitive diagnosis for literally all of my maladies seems to be encapsulated under one general title....FIBROMYALGIA.

I have endured many, many different surgeries, in an attempt to possibly correct underlying problems, to no avail. My bones are literally disintegrating inside my body. I have had my tailbone, as well as my tenth rib removed, as they had each become nothing but crumbled bone fragments and caused me great pain. I was told from the onset in each circumstance, that the bone loss was likely caused from some form of cancer . . . which was eventually ruled out in both instances. Because of endometriosis and heavy, painful flow, I had a partial hysterectomy in 1998.

My symptoms seem quite familiar with the symptoms you list on your website, yet lab work for thyroid disease is consistently normal. Six weeks ago, my T4, T3, and TSH were not only normal, they were each exactly in the middle of the normal range for each lab value, and my doctor says that she cannot, in all good conscience, begin a trial period of thyroid replacement, while my lab values remain so "perfect".

I suffer from constant, debilitating fatigue. After I get my daughter off to school each morning, it has become almost routine to return to my bed for a few more hours of rest, although I seldom actually sleep during these so-called "naps". Sleep is a rare commodity for me, as I suffer from extreme insomnia, for which I take sleeping pills on a nightly basis. My arms and legs ache so badly, that I sometimes just sit on the couch, with tears streaming down my face, begging my husband to rub them for me. I have generalized swelling over my entire body, but mostly in my legs, upper arms and abdomen. My extremities no longer feel as though they belong to me, as they remain so swollen and "doughy" to the touch. The only thing I can akin this sensation to is that my skin reminds me of the feeling of kneading pizza dough. I have very little muscle mass left, as exercising is both extremely painful as well as totally exhausting for me.

For a once extremely active person, this sedentary life-style occasionally makes me feel very sad and imprisoned within my own body. As I sit and type, I rest my head on my hand. My face and neck are so swollen, puffy, and "doughy", I am amazed that they are actually part of my body.

I am freezing literally ALL of the time, except when menopause takes over, and I endure a momentary respite from my own cold temperature, while the waves of hot flashes take over my body. I take my body temperature frequently. My temperature ranges from 95.4 degrees F in the morning, to about 96.9 degrees F mid-afternoon. My hands and feet are so incredibly and perpetually cold, that my husband has actually asked me to not touch him ANYWHERE, even while making love. If you could feel my hands right now, I am certain you would think that that kind of coldness could only possibly come from a corpse!

Although my weight has fluctuated a little bit through the years, I have remained at a weight of 106 pounds for the past 4 consecutive years. At 5'3", this is  good weight for me. However, during the past 3 months, my weight has escalated to 118 pounds, for absolutely no reason whatsoever. My appetite is minimal at best, and I had actually REDUCED my intake, in an attempt to scale my weight down to my optimum weight. No matter how little I eat, it seems, extra pounds are creeping on, and it seems to be out of my control.

I have what doctors call a long and tortuous bowel, which flips and flops inside my abdomen at any point in time where I allow myself to become even the slightest bit constipated. For this reason, I take laxatives and stool softeners daily, as I am prone to such incredible constipation, that dynamite seems to be the only alternative for defecation. By times, however, I become frightened that I may become totally addicted to laxatives, and I slack off on them a bit. At those times, I become so overwhelmingly constipated, that my bowel becomes hard and rigid, and protrudes from my abdomen, as it is trying to expel the stool. This protrusion is papable, as well as visual, and also extremely painful. When this occurrence happens, I have to lie down flat on my back, and use firm pressure with my hands to force the bowel back into its normal position. My husband has felt this phenomenon on my abdomen many times, and wonders how I endure such intense pain. (as do I!)

Each day as I wash and blow dry my hair, there is enough hair on the floor at the end of the process to make a small wig. My house keeper has commented many times that I am shedding like a dog. Although my hair remains thick and coarse, I notice that as I use the blow dryer now, I can see areas of my scalp much more visibly than I could before, due to the extreme amount of hair loss.

My finger nails used to be a source of great pride for me. They were long, healthy, and well manicured at all times. Now, they are so brittle and dry, that they do not grow long enough for a manicure before they either split or break off. Also, I have these thick, unsightly horizontal ridges across each of my nail beds, which were not there before. Small white patches on the nail beds also are present now, where they were not there before.

My skin has become so rough and dry, that my skin actually splits and bleeds. I cannot wear satin or silk clothing anymore, as my skin snags and ruins them, due to the rough and scaly patches. I literally plaster moisturizer on my skin daily, but it does nothing to help alleviate my alligator skin.

I have daily headaches, usually right at the top of my head, as well as blurred vision. When I wear my glasses, I can see better, but the blurriness remains, so I do not bother to wear them.

I have also been experiencing a very strange thing with my tongue. My tongue feels so large and numb, that I frequently have trouble with speech, as I have trouble navigating this cumbersome organ around my mouth to speak. My doctor thought that perhaps I had an oral thrush and put me on medication for it. My throat is constantly sore, as a result of this symptom from my tongue, as well. I have been on the medication for two weeks now, with absolutely no improvement to my discomfort or symptoms. I have never read anything about tongue involvement with regard to thyroid disease or anything else, so I really wonder where this is coming from, and why.

My eyes look old and tired, as my eyelids are so swollen and droopy, sometimes I wonder how I can actually see through them.

Also, my lack of focus and concentration make me wonder whether or not I have Alzheimer's disease! I forget everything unless I write notes to myself and display them prominently, so that I do not forget where I put the notes. I find that I cannot read books anymore, which I have always loved to do in the past, because I can't concentrate on the book enough to know what I have read.

My voice also has become foreign to me. I used to consider that I had a rather pleasant voice. Now, this deep raspy, husky voice has taken over my vocal cords, and I am sometimes taken aback at hearing my own voice when I speak.

My daughter is now 11 years old, and I nursed her until she was 6 months of age. Eleven years later, and my breasts STILL leak, with what I suspect is breast milk! My doctor has no answer for this, except that I have an elevated prolactin level, for no known reason.

My pulse is very fast and thready at about 100 beats per minute, which I know is the direct opposite of what hypothyroidism patients experience. My blood pressure is normal to high-normal for my size, and, although I watch my fat intake like a hawk, my cholesterol is significantly elevated. Again, no reasons or causes for any of my symptoms, which is frustrating as hell!

I crave sweets and salt one hundred percent of the time. Thankfully, God bestowed me with wonderful willpower, and I seldom give into my cravings, as sugar will undoubtedly worsen my weight issue, and salt will worsen my fluid retention issue.

My mood swings are ridiculous and uncontrollable. I am NOT a depressed person, who has brought on all of these symptoms, but I do sometimes become depressed BECAUSE of the symptoms! The doctors do not seem to recognize or understand the difference between the two.

I am a registered nurse, although I am on a disability pension at present, due to the hideously painful and deblitating symptoms my body is undergoing, for whatever reason. I enjoyed an extremely fulfilling and lucrative career before the onset of this illness, and would like very much to resume my daily activities, if someone could just give me a pill or a shot, or SOMETHING to give me back my life!

Karen

May 11, 2005

MARTHA'S UPDATE

Sept 2004

Colonoscopy, no new polyps, just diverticulitis which had been diagnosed in 2000

Oct/04-2/05

6 infections Diverticulitis

Gastro Dr said one more infection and I would possibly need a colostomy. I chose elected surgery laparoscopic surgery immediately. I was living on fiber supplements, a good food plan and in between infections I was exercising 4 hours a week. I went through the surgery and was released from the hospital after 5 days. Other than 21 carpet staples in my abdomen I felt wonderful. I resumed walking 1½ hour daily. Resting most of the day. Within a week I began having a problem eating and drinking the pain was getting worse. When I went to have the staple removed the Surgeon said I had an infection. He did not want to give me antibiotics and he had given me enough during surgery. He instructed me to call him if I did not feel better in two weeks. On the way home, we stopped at the hospital medical records, and my records confirmed I was released from the hospital with a bacterial infection.

After a week I called as I could not walk more than 10 minutes, my BP had dropped and I was very weak. I could not even take sips of water. I was instructed to go on the B.R.A.T. diet I complained as I am a food addict and flour, sugar, and grains make me really flair with FMS/CFS. He explained if I did not begin to eat my colon would dehydrate and I would be in serious trouble. So I did as instructed. Two weeks of the diet and my sinuses began draining, my muscles began screaming, my legs were buckling. I called and spoke with the nurse. She instructed me to call my PC doctor. I did and she ran blood.

Long story short, every thing came back normal except my sed rate. I have never studied sed rate, amazing. That test has to do with inflammation and hypothyroidism. When my Dr called she was excited she said this is the first test that showed a positive result in ten years of her trying to help me. She then said the other test she was waiting for has not come in: Cortisol. Two days later I called still not in. I called the hospital and asked why it had not been sent to my Dr and they said they did not have her fax number. So I asked if they could call if I gave them her phone number and they agreed to call for the fax number. I waited again and then called my Drs office. My Drs nurse said the cortisol was normal so that is why the Dr had not called and the results were filed in my chart. I asked if the results be given to the Dr so she could determine what needed to be done concerning the sed rate. We had discussed increasing my thyroid med. The nurse called me back several hours later and said the Dr said the cortisol was normal. Period. I felt the results were never given to the Dr. Initially I had hopes my doctor would finally take responsibility and tell me to increase my dose of thyroid. That did not happen. I did increase it myself , reluctantly, and immediately felt a heavy cloud lift from my head that was a week ago. I have a week of also giving up the flour sugar and grains.

Once again I am convinced that there is a link to nutrition, metabolic health, and hypothyroidism. I do not believe getting upset with Drs, receptionist and nurses solves anything. However in order to think clearly I need to process clearly, almost impossible while under the influence of foods that cloud my thinking.

Martha

May 3, 2005

bobmarty@comcast.net

Massachusetts

"B"'s STORY

I want to share my own story with thyroid "injustice". I found Margie's website and found her to be such an inspiration. I can only hope that maybe, somewhere, somebody can benefit from what I have to say.

To begin, I am only 28 years old. Beginning around age 24 I started gaining weight. The weight gain was gradual and I assumed it was because of my eating habits and lack of exercise. In actuality, I have always ate pretty healthy. Cheese is my downfall, but I have never really been a consumer of fatty foods, fried things, starches, or sweets. Mostly my diet consists of vegetables and meats, and of course my cheese.

At age 25 I noticed that I was feeling fatigued all the time. I began relying on caffeine tablets or the mini thins products to keep me going. I had terrible PMS symptoms, meaning mostly my sudden anger outbursts. I even asked a doctor about this because I felt my anger was not controllable during this time. They suggested depression medications, which I refused to take.

From age 25 to the end of this last year (Oct. 2004) I continued to gain weight. My heaviest was 264 lbs, on a 5 ft 9 body. I wore a size 3x. I had symptoms of low blood sugar, or so I thought. I had to eat all the time to have any energy at all which in turn caused more weight gain. I had to drop out of graduate school because I simply could not function. I was tested for blood sugar and was normal, although I did have a few episodes of very low blood sugar (the test showed 30). I was tested for thyroid and was told I was "normal", although I was barely within range on the low end and on the high end for the two thyroid tests that were conducted. I was terribly depressed at this point because I felt worthless. I was no longer in school. I couldn't even function enough to go grocery shopping or to cook for myself. All I did all day every day was lay in bed.

Finally, at my wits end this last September, I got on the internet searching desperately for answers. I remember I could barely hold my head up while I was typing into the search engines. When I came across Margie's website, I burst into tears. I was so thankful to hear that somebody knew what I was going through. Somebody finally understood! I contacted Margie and told her everything that was going on. I took her suggestions to heart. I made an appointment with my doctor armed with an armfull of information from the internet. I was prepared to discuss my condition and try to find an answer. I wanted to cooperate with him to find an answer, because I knew if I couldn't find one, then I would be doomed to a life of vegatating.

My doctor's visit lasted a total of five minutes at best. He was so angry that I even suggested other diagnoses. He didn't even look at anything I had in my hands. In fact, the whole conversation was nothing but generalities because he would not let me tell any of the details. Finally, he pawned me off on one of his nurses and then told the secretary that he would refuse to see me again. He said there is nothing he could do for me and I would have to be seen elsewhere. So, from September till February I did not have a doctor. Not only could I not be seen, but this doctor also refused to give me a referral to be seen by someone else, and he also refused to "officially" remove me from his roster of patients.

The first of October I went to see a Naturopath, who gave me some herbs and vitamins. These did seem to help and I am still taking them today. The main help, I believe, came from an aquantence. You see, the aquaintence had a prescription for thyroid medication, but they had not taken the pills for a year or so. They said they could still get refills any time they needed, and I could have these pills for myself. The dosage was .1 mcg a day, which I began taking before breakfast each day. Understand, please, this was illegal for me to do and for the aquaintence to do. But, you know, I started feeling better within the first week. By the end of the first month of taking thyroid and herbs/vitamins I felt perfect, as if there never was a problem. I even started losing weight.

Finally, this last February (2005) I was able to see a new doctor. I told the doctor I was taking thyroid medication and how much, but I did not necessarily say which doctor had prescribed it to me or that I had "actually" been prescribed at all. It was a don't ask, don't tell situation. Well, I did ask for a "refill" on the prescription, and it was given to me. So, now finally I am "legally" taking my thyroid suppliment. It couldn't have come at a better time, because my aquaintence is needing to take it themselves now.

I feel bad about going against the law and lying in a round about way, but in a way I can justify it. If I had not done these things I would be a burden on society because I would not be able to work or function normally. I now weight 244, so I have lost about 20 pounds in six months or so. Granted, I still have a lot to go, but I am just thankful I can have the energy to actually "go".

My message to all of you out there is this... don't give up. You are not alone. And sometimes, doing the "right" thing won't get you anywhere. Sometimes you have to be a little sneaky to get things done. My blessings to all of you, as well as to Margie for her continuing efforts to educate and assist others. 

March 1, 2005

EMMA'S STORY

This story begins ten years ago. In January of 1995, I faced two events for the year....my daughter's wedding and my 25th class reunion.

It was time to keep that New Year's resolution to lose weight and within 6 months I lost 25 pounds. For the first time in my adult life I could wear a size 8/10. Then in July of 1996 I found out I had graves disease. Tapezole and time and I was back to my 140 lbs. Things went into remission for almost four years and then a nodule was found on my thyroid.

The endocrinologist believed a total thyroidectomy was the answer. I (ignorantly) agreed. My endocrinologist, Dr. Evron, said that once the thyroid was out, I would need to take Synthroid for the rest of my life, but "things would be fine." It just may take about three months to get my levels adjusted.

On November 11, 2003, the thyroid was removed. By December 12, 2003, I weighed 182 pounds (my weight at surgery was 152). I had gained 30 pounds in one month. (I'm 5'3") I had no energy at all and would be exhausted by 1:00 in the afternoon. My muscle aches were so bad that by 7:00 in the evening I could not walk across the living room. Baths were no longer an option because, even with my husband's help, I could not get in or out of the bathtub. I had my ears ringing constantly. Getting dressed in the morning became a daily wrestling match with my wardrobe. Absolutely nothing, except shoes, fit. That includes lingerie and rings that I used to wear. I was now wearing a size 20/22. My voice, my voice, which was to come back in three months, was gone. I need to explain the emotional impact of that. I am a singer, a vocalist, with years and years of study in voice. I could not sing. I am also a public speaking coach (Forensics) and I could not raise my voice to be heard by my students.

By March 2004, I was weighing in at 190. My daughter said I should try Curves, and I did, although the circuit was very, very difficult with all the muscle aches.

By August 2004, the worst symtom finally took over. I began having thoughts of suicide. I cried driving to and from work everyday for two months. My daughter was expecting my second grandchild and my mind was playing suicide games. I have been driving for 27 years and never, ever got a ticket or had a fender bender. Yet one day on my way to work, I was crying so hard that I ploughed into another car. (Thank God it, like mine, was a Saturn and there was only one scratch....so much for the GM commercial). I started drinking ...a lot. Went to a friend's wedding and ended up sick in the parking lot . . . (Keep in mind, I'm 52 years old!). I realized that if my teenage daughter had acted the way I did, I would have her in counseling. So, since then, I have been in counseling.

The medical side of all of this is another story . . .

Starting in January I began a long arguement with my endocrinologist. Dr. Evron. I told him all my symptoms and he said that it takes time for some people. It became ridiculous as the schedule follows.

January . . . tell Dr. symptoms, ups dosage of Synthroid 25 mcgs. Have blood work in six weeks.

March . . . have blood work done. Wait for two weeks for Dr. to call. Lab lost blood work.

April . . . have blood work sent again. Wait for two weeks for Dr. to call.

He leaves message . . . blood work looks good.

Call Dr. back. Leave message. Still have terrible symptoms. Still gaining weight.

May . . . have blood work done again. Med. ass't. calls. Blood work fine. I say . . . I don't give a damn what the blood work says. I still have all the symptoms.

She says, Well, it's not the thyroid.

July . . . go to new endocrinologist who stares at the blood work and says, "I'll have to do more research and get back to you." Dr. Richardson teaches endocinology at Allegheny Medical College. (AGH). I'm still waiting for her to get back to me. (February 2005)

September . . . I see Dr. Goldstein who takes an hour and ten minutes for my first appointment. (When was the last time any doctor spent an hour + with a patient? I finally believed someone was hearing me.) Takes me off synthroid puts me on Armor Thyroid, Vitamins, and Minerals.

February 2005. I am now at 170 lbs. far from where I need to be, but at least getting closer. The depression has lifted and my therapist says I really don't need much counseling anymore. My voice is back due to treatment for Acid Reflux which was caused by the Synthroid. (That also took five weeks of therapyl) I also started seeing a chiropracter this week to help with the acid reflux.

I don't know that I have this thing licked yet. I know if I had it to do all over again I would not have had a thyroidectomy. I know that in no way, shape or form, do I blatantly trust what physicians in standard medicine say. It stinks but in this day and age, you need to become the expert on your own condition. I feel that Dr. Evron let me down terribly, although he continues to be my daughter's physician for her insulin-maintained diabetes.

He didn't listen, he treats number, not symptoms or people, and he did not inform me adequately of what to expect after the surgery. Beleive me, if I had know that it would take two years to come back from that, I never would have done it.

Emma

February 15, 2005

WANDA'S STORY

I am 26 years old. I have struggled with my weight since high school. At one point, I weighed 183 pounds. I'm 5'4", and I wanted to have a healthier lifestyle since my family is predisposed to many diseases: heart disease, diabetes, cancer, etc. I took a judo class and lost 15 pounds. I signed up for a gym membership and modified my already pretty healthy eating habits by excluding sodas and cutting back on sweets. I didn't deprive myself, but I had a much "cleaner" diet. I lost more weight and was down to a relatively stable weight of 137.

I graduated and took a gap year. I started back to school to complete my certification in education when I began seeing a counselor. I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety disorder. I tried behavior modification, which worked well. However, physical symptoms, such as insomnia and irritability, persisted. It was recommended that I start taking Paxil CR. Within weeks, I felt better, but I gained 15 pounds, which made me feel worse. I also had constipation and still felt tired, even though I averaged 6.5-7 hours of sleep per night. I still exercised regularly and my diet was the same. I was switched to Wellbutrin, then Lexapro, then Zoloft. Each drug either had such extreme side effects that I could not tolerate them, or they did not have an effect on other symptoms. My counselor, who is also a registered nurse, was concerned since we had seemingly exhausted all options. She asked if anyone in my family had thyroid disorders. My mother was borderline, and my grandmother and several of her direct relatives had hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. She knew about my extreme fatigue and asked about my skin and hair, if I felt cold, and if my eyes or face seemed puffy. She suggested that I may have hypothyroidism.

When I discussed this with my mother, she became alarmed. My grandmother had Grave's disease, which I associated as being on the extreme end. I never thought my problems could be more serious. I am extremely scared because there are so many unknowns. I went in today and had the campus doctor run a series of blood tests. He listened to me describe my symptoms, but I am afraid he is all too willing to write them off as being related to other factors: I am under stress (taking classes, recently married), taking birth control (which I began taking for heavy bleeding and cramps - I never experienced weight problems while taking them), etc. My mother and husband want treatment for me, but we live in a rural area where our insurance and financial situations dictate our medical care.

I keep thinking: was it the shakes I drank as supplements? Have I had this condition for longer than I realized? Did the anti-depressants cause or trigger this condition? Do I have some other condition I am unaware of? The results will not be back in until next week. I see a disturbing trend where many individuals, including LOTS of women, have thyroid disorders. I've read everyone's story, and I think those individuals are to be commended for sharing their frustrations and fears. I KNOW I have some sort of problem: my concentration and memory are being affected, which frustrates me because as a student, those skills are imperative for my success. If I find any information, I will share it. The information I have found on this site may prove useful in my quest for a diagnosis.

Wanda K.

November 2, 2004

Cora_sedai@yahoo.com

Williamsburg, KY

MARTHA'S STORY

I am feeling perhaps the best I have felt in months and I continue to work hard at metabolic rehab according to the book  written by Dr Lowe from Colorado http://www.drlowe.com/index.htm

Dr. John C. Lowe is a fibromyalgia, thyroid, and metabolism researcher. He is also a board certified pain management specialist. As Director of Research for the Fibromyalgia Research Foundation, he has spearheaded the scientific study of two related subjects: the metabolic bases of fibromyalgia, and the metabolic rehabilitation of fibromyalgia patients. He is author of the internationally acclaimed book The Metabolic Treatment of Fibromyalgia. This book, published in 2000, is considered by many as the most important document every published on fibromyalgia.

I am as I stated above working daily on my program to reclaim my life. I was in 2000 disabled with fibromyalgia and Chronic fatigue. I had pain so severe I would meditate, using deep breathing and muscle relaxation for 6-8 hours daily to  ease the pain. I was unable to take pain meds as they would reverse in me or create pain in my stomach after a very short time so instead I would just put my body in a trance. I ran my home in 20 minute increments of time, as any longer would cause panic attacks as I worked against the pain.  

There were times I would fall down, no reason, I would lay there and wait for energy to return, get up drag myself up and be grateful I did not hurt myself on the way down. I was dizzy most days, I would fall asleep at the table having my meals, and my life was difficult. My husband helped me to the computer to help me reach out to others so I could stay connected. I remained positive and I looked for answers. I was hospitalized several times with no answers. In 2000 I was disabled by social security for Fibromyalgia. I was according to the case worker assigned to me one of the sickest clients they had encountered. I need not have a face to face evaluation, a phone consultation was all that was needed.

I waited too long, I just made it by one month as all my benefits would have been lost. I thought this will pass. I was just wanting to go back to work, but could not stop falling down. I went to a rehab hospital who insisted I apply for disability. I was devastated. they helped me apply, when I received the call I was shocked, I cried. I did not want the label I really wanted to work and be normal. That did not happen.

Through one of my support groups I read of hypothyroidism and how a new study had been reported that fibromyalgia was in fact a symptom of hypothyroidism. I read and I read, I began following the suggestion and I went to my then primary care Dr who agree to let me try the t3/t4 thyroid med. I have to state here this plan is not just about the thyroid med it is about a whole food plan, supplements, exercising to tolerance, and if needed thyroid meds.  Long story short within hours of taking my first dose which was one grain of Armour thyroid I was better, no headache, no dizziness, fatigue gone, motivation back, my life became normal.

That was in Feb, 2003, I am on my way to regaining my life again, Yes! Obstacles get in my way, but, I am determined to find my way and to continue to work hard and reclaiming the life that God meant for me to have. So please take the time to read this information and please understand  I am willing to do all the leg work necessary to complete my goal. Having a medical problem that creeps up and knocks me down periodically will not keep me down for long.

This is a letter I sent to my new Dr. along with what I am doing to take responsibility to continue to reclaim my  life daily. The web site that I have found along with the book Dr Lowe has written is easy to read. I knew for me at the beginning I thought how could I ever understand how to begin to help myself when I had such clouded thinking. One day at a time I am learning to trust myself and when in doubt to ask of the support groups on line. We can help each other. Enclosed is my list of my plan

My plan for metabolic rehab:

A whole food plan,

Weighed and measured 4 oz protein at each meal, fruit at breakfast only, 2 cups of salad or veggies for lunch, 3 cups of salad or veggies for supper, oil or butter at each meal.

No flour, sugar or grains

8 - 8 oz water, decaf coffee 

Supplements:

B-complex

Vit-E

1000 mg-Salmon oil

1000 mg-flax seed oil

500 mg-Vit C  several times a day

cal/mag  at bedtime

one a day vitamin

2 grs Armour thyroid (T3/T4) one hour before breakfast 6 a.m.

Exercise to tolerance: 4 times a week at Curves resistant training 4 times a week for 1/2 hour /10 minutes of stretching, off days  2- 20 minute walks

I am losing 2 lbs weekly for a total so far of 42 pounds. My metabolism is finally working after years of being sluggish.

Martha

November 1, 2004

bobmarty@comcast.net

Massachusetts

BRANDEE'S STORY

After reading your thyroid history, I feel we are kindred spirits! Like yours, my mom had a thyroid condition also. Hers ended up with a goiter from over-treatment, with most of her thyroid gland being surgically removed in the early 1960's.

Also like you, my mom had been nagging me about my puffy face and swollen neck.  ALSO like you, at this point, I was so depressed about the unexplained weight gain, that I had just given up. I, too, had found the wonders of ephedra through Metabolife! In fact, it became the only way I could get through my busy days, which included: teaching PE and dance at a middle school full-time, dance at Chapman University, theatre at two community colleges, and work as a freelance choreographer and director. I DIDN'T HAVE TIME TO BE HYPOTHYROID!

In addition to the unexplained weight gain despite all the dancing and a 20-year vegetarian diet, I had just about every symptom on the list. EVERY symptom. I looked and felt horrible. Similar to what you were told, "the best endocrinologist in Newport Beach" told me I had Hashimoto's, and to just keep taking my Synthroid and see him in two months! (I had been on Synthroid since 1991.) I YI YI! I told him about my horrific PMS history and how NATURAL progesterone had once helped me, but all I got was "see me in two months"!

I have a friend who is an attorney for the US Navy. I remember that she had undergone some kind of "issue" with her thyroid, and, according to a friend who had just visited her, had lost 20 pounds seemingly overnight. So, I EM'd her. She, too, was diagnosed with Hashimoto's, and found a doctor who "GOT IT!!" She was so far into the "brain fog," that it was affecting her work. (She reads long official documents daily, and was having to re-read and re-read because nothing was making sense to her.) She told me about Mary Shomon's website, and there I found Dr. Holtorf's name.

I saw him on Tuesday. He says I have CFS, too. In addition, I am going through peri-menopause (I'm 46). BUT I AM SO HAPPY BECAUSE I KNOW I AM GOING TO FEEL AND LOOK BETTER SOON!! Yippee!

Brandee

October 17, 2004

brandee5678@hotmait

LAURA'S STORY

I have terriffic news to report. I am almost speechless and I didn't even see the doctor. I woke up at 5:15 am yesterday and was ready by 6:00. I had written down all of my symtoms the night before, gathered my past labwork, and made Jason, my boyfried, hunt down some quarters for the toll booths in Atlanta. After getting gas, I was well on my way around 6:15.

I made it there in record time (3hrs. and 15 mins.). I was soo anxious about the appointment. Within twenty minutes they called me back. Can you believe that my PCP had not yet faxed my referral over to Dr. Reed's office?! I had to get on the horn with them and after several attempts . . . they faxed the referral. The nurse got my blood pressure, weight . . . ugh! etc . . . and told me that "he" would be in to see me soon. I was kind of confused. I had assumed that Dr. Reed's "nurse practioner" was a WOMAN. Very wrong of me.

Anyway, within 10 short minutes Christopher Vreeland entered the room with a smile and sat down in a chair across from me. He was not down to business at first, which was good. He told me that his wife had graduated from SCAD in Savannah, GA. I told him that not too long ago I was a resident of Savannah, until Jason and I decided we wanted to settle down in his home town. He told me that he had a nine month old baby at home and how he loved being a dad. He was so easy to talk to . . . it felt like an old friend I hadn't seen in years. He really gained my trust and made me feel like I could tell him anything, so I did. I told him everything. 

He asked me what some of my main symptoms were . . . of course I had my list. I gave specific details and tried to not be too long winded. But, he wanted to know more. Can you believe it? Were these symptoms evident in childhood? How long had I felt this way? Which was the most troubling out of all my symptoms? How many thyroid scans did I have and when and what was the outcome? I even decided to tell him about my grandfather (who had hyper"para"thyroidism and died of a cancerous tumor on his parathyroid that wasn't caught until autopsy). He was so intrigued, and told me that he hadn't heard of a rare case like that in ages. I told him, by no means, did I think that that was what I had, but I thought it was important that he know my family "thyroid" history. He still wanted to know even more. About past tests, results, my feelings about these tests, and on and on. Without even suggesting it to him, he told me that this was not for sure yet . . . but, he felt like I was going to be "hypo" and possibly insuling resistant. AND, he wanted to check me for diabetes, since my father is diabetic.   

He spent sooooooooooo much time with me, just talking. I told him about my low temps. and how I had taken my temperature that morning with a reading of 96.7. He didn't dismiss anything. Never once did he suggest that I was just depressed or had anxiety, even when I told him that I was on Wellbutrin. He said that symptoms of depression, as well as actual depression itself, are very common for patients with thyroid problems. He never changed the way he spoke to me. The anti-depressent was just another piece of the puzzle to him.

Next, he examined my thyroid by reaching over my shoulders from the back. He said that the right side, which happened to show the small nodule in earlier scans, felt a bit larger than the left side. He drew me a picture of the brain explaining how the pituitary sends messages to the thyroid etc . . . He talked about different thyroid realated diseases, such as Hashimoto's, Grave's Disease, and said that he had already ruled out Hashimoto's with me, because of my past bloodwork.

Next, he started deciding the tests he wanted to run. I was sure that he would ask me to come back another day to do these, but he didn't. He said that he hoped he had not overloaded me with information and that he wanted to run a juncture of different tests right then. He wanted to check me for diabetes, do the entire TSH panel over again, run an atibodies test that all of my previous doctors neglected to run, check all of my cholesterol, run my testosterone levels, and in order to check my body's break down of insulin he wanted to do an hour delayed blood test of glucose absorption. In short, I had to drink a bottle of orange sugary fluid and get my blood taken an hour later. Chris even offered me his email address, so, in case I needed anything. I could contact him immediately. He said that, being I was 3.5 hrs. away, he felt that a patient needed open lines to communicate any changes in their condition. At this point, I was totally in AWE! 

Needless to say, I relinquished 8 viles of my blood, paid my copay, and will call them next week to set up my follow up (3-4 weeks from now) to get my test results and meet with Chris again. Then, after all of that, he told me that he wanted me to go ahead and set up an appointment with Dr. Reed, which is scheduled for February 16th, 2005. 

I am still in disbelief that this is truly happening and the type of care I have received from this office. AND it's not just me they treat like this . . . it's every patient that walks through their door. And trust me, a lot of them came in and out while I waited to have my blood drawn.

This experience was truly amazing for me!

Laur

October 16, 2004

Georgia

ATHENA'S STORY

In January of 1993 I began to feel extremely tired and noticed a significant loss of energy, mood swings, and insomnia. For years I had walked to the gym, done 15 minutes on the treadmill before a one hour aerobics class 4 days a week. Within a month I was too tired to walk to the gym and would drive and do my regular workout. A month later I could barely make it to the gym for the aerobics class, and a month later I had no energy to work out. I knew something was very wrong and went to the doctor.

The first doctor told me that I had mono and to just rest and get plenty of fluids. A month later I went back and was told I was just burned out, I didn't need to work out that much anyway. I then asked my HMO for a new primary care physician. When I went to the new doctor, he told me to take more vitamins but that I was fine. I asked my HMO for a new primary care physician. The next doctor told me I looked perfectly healthy and said I was a hypochondriac. I was livid and left the office. I then called my HMO and asked for another primary care physician. This fourth doctor did a complete blood work and still found nothing wrong. I then decided to get my own health plan with a PPO. I asked around and was referred to another doctor in Beverly Hills. My new doctor said all the test had been done but to "make me feel better" he would send me for an MRI. Well, the results came back that I had nine tumors in my thyroid and I was referred to an endrocrinologist. My endrocrinologist Arthur Lurvey in Beverly Hills was a Godsend. I had a very obvious goiter the size of a tangerine and he couldn't believe that 6 doctors didn't notice it, he comforted my nuerosis and frustration, and assured me that everything would be fine. He took a biopsy of my goiter and told me not to worry because thyroid cancer typically happens to men over 60. That night I was walking out the door to go to a play and Dr. Lurvey called. He asked if I was sitting down and I plopped on the floor. He said I had papillary cancer and he'd like me to have surgery that week and had already scheduled a meeting with a head and neck surgeon for the following morning. I was in shock and at the same time relieved that we finally knew what the problem was. 

My friends and family were great. They took me to my appointments and were there when I woke up from surgery. After the surgery they realized it had spread to my lymph so I went through radioactive iodine treatment. It was terrifying but, I felt comfortable with my new doctors and was just excited to get my energy back. 

The first 7 years on my medication, everything was fine. I felt better than ever, had very regular sleep and periods and was generally happy. Then while training for a marathon I started to gain weight. I was exercising, eating right, and getting plenty of rest. Within 6 months I put on 30 pounds. I shared my concerns with my doctor at 10 pounds. He suggested that because I was now older, my metabolism had slowed down and maybe I was eating too many carbs for the training and suggested I follow Atkins diet. I did and my weight continued to sore. Dr. Lurvey encouraged me to see other endrocrinologists because he was retiring and only had one day in the office a week. I then went to an Endrocrinologist who specialized in Nutrician at UCLA David Heber. He told me that I was predispositioned with diabetic obesity and it was an inherited situation and suggested going on a liquid diet or accepting my extra weight and camaflouging it with wardrobe. 

Given that my weight was skyrocketing, my energy was low, and I was trying everything in the book, I decided to take the matters online. I joined various websites and message boards and THANKFULLY Margie responded to me and referred Dr. Ken Holtorf. I went to him and he explained that I had been taking Synthroid, T4 and my body had become resistant to it. He also did a lot of blood work and realized I was high estrogen and very low progesterone and testosterone. He then put me on a compounded T3, Testosterone, and progesterone. Within 3 months I lost 20 lbs and had my energy back.

When I initially went to Dr. Holtorf I shared his diagnosis with Dr. Heber. Dr. Heber ran a dexascan and knew the exact muscle/fat/water in my body. He was shocked to see that after 6 weeks on my new regimen my body fat had dropped 7 pounds, and my muscle was up 3, and water was down 2. The problem was evident that without testosterone all of the exercise wasn't building any muscle and the excess estrogen was storing fat and water. Dr. Heber had a student Jenny who took a real interest in my case and we would meet every six weeks. I documented what I ate, drank, and exercised, and the results were astonishing. Based on my muscle gain over the past 3 years, my new healthy weight is 125 pounds at 5' 2".  

Between Dr. Holtorf, Dr. Heber, and Jenny I feel very good about my thryoid situation and am doing very well. I just took the body age exam and my physical age is 26. Whereas, my chronological age is in my 30's. :-)

Athena Navarro

October 4, 2004

www.lalovecoach.com

Los Angeles, California

CAREY'S STORY

Ever since puberty I haven't felt normal, but every teenager feels that way, right.  My first period was at the age of 11 and it has never been normal.  Instead of being in 28-day cycles more like 40 to 90-day cycles, my cycles are usually more like the Tour de France: long, intense and racing to the bathroom at any moment.  I also have always been on the heavier side, nothing major in High School, but after High School the pounds came on fast, even when I wasn't eating that much.  I just figured it was the stress of my life at the time.  But now that I think back and know the symptoms of hypothyroidism I can see them. 

The severity of my symptoms came to a head in 2002.  My husband took me out to lunch on our day off from work one.  We sit down to eat and the waitress asks me what I want to drink and I couldn't make a decision.  It was like I couldn't put the words together in my mind (brain fog).  I was sitting in the middle of Longhorn crying my eyes out hysterically for no reason whatsoever. All my poor husband could do was hold me. All I wanted to do was kill myself (depression, suicidal tendencies).  I thought I was going crazy because I had no reason to be suicidal; I love my husband, have a firm belief in God and have supportive friends and family.  I would have my ups and downs - I almost thought I was bipolar.  Meanwhile I kept dieting without losing weight, but gaining instead. (I was using a lot of soy in my diet back then, but now have learned that soy is the enemy of the thyroid gland.)

t this point my husband and I had been trying to conceive for 5 years.  I even had an OBGYN say that I was an "aenigma."  He had done a thyroid test and said that my results were slightly high, but within the normal range.  So I dismissed it and went on with my life and trusting the doctor. 

So I looked on-line and put in all these weird symptoms in to see if I could find anything out. I Googled: Memory loss, brain fog, severe depression, unable to lose weight, and infertility.  A blaring Hypothyroidism came up in my search.  So for Christmas 2002 that year I got a gift certificate to Barnes and Noble and bought a book on hypothyroidism: Is Your Thyroid Making You Fat?: The doctor's 28-day diet that tests your metabolism as you lose weight by Sanford Siegal.  I read it and couldn't believe the symptoms.  I did the diet and it showed that my metabolism was only operating at 69.2%.  Now I had to find a doctor that would believe me. 

By the time I finished the diet it was towards the end of February and my mother tragically and suddenly died.  I was still suffering from depression, which didn't help my situation.  I had made an appointment to talk with my G.P. who is a cardiologist (because of a separate heart condition I have) about the book.  By the time I went to see him I was like a big blubbering blob.  He was so kind and wonderful and supportive about my mom, but didn't think that I had a thyroid problem.  So he gave me Zoloft.  I took it because I didn't know what else to do, but stopped it about a year later because I knew that my problem was still thyroid related.  Approximately a year later, after dealing with my mom's estate and all that goes along with a sudden death, it was time I started to think about my health again. I read the article that Margie did in Woman's World magazine and it encouraged me to get back on my feet. I was scared to go to a doctor, but I went on Dr. Sanford Siegal's website where there was a list of doctors that could help me.  I went to one (a G.P.) on the list and saw the P.A., she didn't believe me, but I was so persistent that she ran all the tests she could think of just to prove me wrong.  I had read on the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists website (www.aace.com) that there were changes in the normal range for the current TSH tests.  The old normal range was: 0.5 to 5.00.  The new normal range is: 0.3 to 3.04.  My TSH was 4.19.  The lab had only the old range still at their fingertips.  I showed her the printout from the AACE website but she said, "Don't you think that the labs would have the right information if the standard had changed?" Either way I still had a thyroid ultrasound and it was found that I had two cysts on my thyroid and a slight goiter.  She was visibly sheepish when she told me at my next appointment.  So she finally believed me that I had a thyroid problem and sent me to an Endocrinologist.

Honestly, I was slightly relieved when the test came back positive.  Because I actually thought I was going crazy and that it was all in my head.  I will never forget that day: I came home and told my husband that I have good news and bad news.  The good news is that I wasn't a hypochondriac and the bad news was that I had a thyroid problem.  We laughed and truthfully my husband always supported me and encouraged me to find out what was wrong.   He never thought that I was crazy, even when I did.

The Endocrinologist put me on Synthroid .25 mcg, such a low dosage that didn't do anything.  I needed a doctor that would look at all my symptoms and prescribe me Armour Thyroid.  Armour has T3 and T4, and after researching on the web I realized I needed both because I also have odd symptoms of hypothyroidism - not dry skin, but oily and acne prone skin.  These are signs of problems with the liver that changes the T4 to T3 hormone for our thyroid.  So about 2 months ago I finally found a great doctor, Dr. Abelove, that put me on Armour Thyroid and is working my way up to the full dosage.  It has to be done gradually with me because of the heart problems I have and palpitations that hypothyroid patients deal with.   I have gone back now and Dr. Abelove has put me on 60 mg of Armour.  I am just now looking for a diet that will work for me.  Any ideas would be great - I can't do Atkins, though.  Be encouraged, help is out there, you have to be your own advocate for your health.

Carey F.

September 7, 2004

carey@calvarymiamilakes.org

Miami Lakes, FL

BEVERLY'S STORY

My first signs were in 1999: I was having some depression, very dry skin, mood swings, and peripheral neuropathy. I thought these signs were rather weird, but brushed them off. I was having severe menstrual pains, and side aches,and decided to see a doctor just to have a checkup. I had an internal ultrasound, and some blood taken, and never went to the follow up before my doctor retired due to losing my insurance.

As the years passed I started to get more symptoms: weight gain, heartburn, hearing loss, ringing in the ears, and intolerance to heat and cold. I found myself never wanting to leave the house anymore and do things as my energy lessoned more, and as more symptoms came over me. By January 2004 I had decided to quit smoking and caffeine. Within a month of breaking these old habits I  was cold all the time, had insomnia, painful joints, brain fog, lethargy, had lost my memory  on and off, and was so constipated it was painful. I decided i had to see a doctor and have some tests ran to see why i was constipated.

By this time i had gained a whopping 40 pounds in 6 months and looked puffy everywhere. People were beginning to notice the weight gain. The doctor had me take a blood test on my TSH/Metabolic system. The test came back that my thyroid was 70.22 - severely hypothyroid. The doctor called me at 10:00 am the day after I took my blood tests.  The Doctor said I had a severe case of hypothyroidism and asked me if this ran in my family. I did not have an answer to tell her. She told me that she was faxing a Rx to my pharmacy and that I needed to pick it up on my lunch and start taking it  right away.

At this point is when i started to educate myself on hypothyroidism. Within the next 6 months my energy started to come back, but I noticed that I was still not up to par because I still had symptoms: constipation, hoarse voice, painful joints, severe heartburn and insomnia. I told my doctor and she put me on 400mg of stool softeners and told me to exercise and drink more water. She said my numbers were fine, but i was still suffering with symptoms that were very uncomfortable.<