Hypothyroid problems

Pixie · 05-18-2008, 07:47 PM

Anyone here have experience with hypothyroidism? I was diagnosed a few years ago, after a decade struggle with the symptoms of hypothyroidism, like horrible periods (sorry for the TMI), disabiling headaches, sleeping excessively, hair falling out, weight gain, etc. They tried me on Cytomel for a bit and because of my good results and the short half-life of Cytomel, they changed me to Synthroid. At this point, they are still trying to get me on a right dosage, but I have some concerns.

Before I get too far into it, does anyone know anything about these drugs and hypothyroidism? I could use some help/advice/support... please.

Pixie · 05-19-2008, 02:29 PM

Among other questions, I'm kind of curious about supplements that might help deal with some of these issues, as well as water retention. Since changing medications, I had some of the symptoms start again, but I've also started holding more water, particularly in my ankles. I don't like it.

Can anyone help? This may not be in the best section of the board, but I was guessing females might have a better understanding with the female issues. Please...

Big Sky Guy · 05-19-2008, 04:26 PM

Pix...my wife (Big Sky's Bride) is walking through what may be the beginning stages of hypo as her body appears to be attacking her thyroid gland. I posted a thread on her situation in the Off Topic section as we really do not have a "Health Section".

Pixie · 05-19-2008, 11:52 PM

BSG, thanks for the reply. I read your thread and it was helpful. I think we posted kind of at the same time, just different places. I do wish your wife well. It's not a fun thing to go through. I just am looking for some others that might have some suggestions, advice, etc. for diet (outside of the good ol' balanced diet), supplements, exercise, and all that good stuff. My mom has hypothyroidism and I can get experience information from her, but we have completely different lifestyles, builds, metabolisms, etc., it seems like her advice has limits for me or hasn't worked much at all. Looking for help from people of a more similar background as me. Know of anyone or anything that might help?

NubianBeauty · 05-20-2008, 05:54 PM

Hi Pixie!!! I am hypothyroid... have been dealing with it for the past 4 years. I'm finally getting it removed next month. YAY!! What questions do you have? What dose of Cytomel did your doc start you with?

Pixie · 05-20-2008, 09:04 PM

Oh, thank you NB.

A little history... Before any pills, I was sufferring from periods lasting 10 days at a time, occurring every other week; joint discomfort; quick, unexplained weight gain; hair falling out; extreme, even debilitating headaches; never feeling awake or actually sleeping too much (upwards around 18-20 hours at times); lethargic; being kind of forgetful or scatterbrained; allergies increased... to name the main ones. The symptoms started around 1997 (around the age of 20), and it took about 10 years to get something diagnosed. Early on, I hadn't complained of much because I was thinking that it was just because I was in college, stressed or was just too busy to put the whole picture together. I was very aware that my mom had hypothyroidism, was on Synthroid, and the genetic link of it. There was a point, around 2001, when I started complaining about it to my woman doctor though. Blood tests were run but apparently not the right ones. I finally went to an endocrinologist in 2005, the one my mom sees for her hypothyroid. He ran the right tests and I show "just slightly out of the normal range" on most thyroid blood tests, and when palpated, my thyroid apparently doesn't feel that large. But, I certainly hate that test--major discomfort and feeling like I'm choking. Anyway, my test results were not so far out of normal that the PA that was "in charge of me" didn't want to do anything but monitor me to make sure I didn't get worse... all despite me telling her the mass of symptoms and how horrible it was. I later complained to the doctor (not the PA) about how horrible everything was and that I couldn't do anything and asked if there was a natural supplement, vitamin, or something I could take to help me through my symptoms. That's where I got the prescription for Cytomel. It was a very low dose at 5 mcg, but it did the trick. Every one of my symptoms disappeared, even ones I wasn't aware of. The PA that I was originally seeing wanted to take me off, and I was in tears I was so fearful of the whole mess starting over again. The doctor was more sympathetic and kept me on it. The test results with me on the Cytomel were better, but still slightly out of normal. No dosage change though since I was feeling fine.

I recently moved to Texas and had to get a new doctor. I like this doctor because she recognized that I had results on the Cytomel and didn't want take me off thyroid medication, re-diagnose me with something else, etc. She did however want to put me on something that was a little more long-term, since, as she said, the Cytomel isn't even working on me for a full 24 hours. She's being conservative with starting my on a low dose of Synthroid at 25mcg. I was to completely come off the Cytomel and start Synthroid as of the beginning of March 2008. I am taking the Synthroid as directed--first thing in the morning on, empty stomach, and no eating for 60 minutes after taking the medication. As I expected, my symptoms started coming back--horrific period schedule; headaches; joint pain; very tired... I know that it takes 6-8 weeks before I should reach therapeutic levels. It's been more than that and I'm still having a hard time with this. My symptoms aren't as bad as they were at the beginning of the medication change, nor as bad as before the Cytomel, thank goodness, but I still don't feel normal. I believe my dosage isn't high enough, but won't know for sure until I get my next test results the beginning of June. The doctor is aware of the issues, and said I could come in for another blood test a couple weeks ago, but it wasn't a good time with moving (again), exams and trips. There really wasn't anything available until my scheduled appointment, so I'm waiting until then, but am so frustrated and have questions... Here they are...

1. Is there a negative reaction to taking Cytomel with the Synthroid? I did it a few times, when I had debilitating headaches and couldn't wake up. For about 5 hours after taking the Cytomel (hours after taking the Synthroid), I felt great. I wasn't all hyper, like I thought I would be, kind of like my mom was when they had her on too high of a Synthroid dosage. Maybe a little speedy with my speech, but I had a dose of energy, could get so much done and felt great. Does this also confirm my suspicions that my Synthroid dosage is too low?

2. Is there any supplements, vitamins or something like that that I can take when my symptoms are bad to help me get through the day? (Like people taking B-12 for energy)

3. Is water retention normal when thyroid hormones are off? Since the medication change, I seem to be holding a lot of extra water, which is really uncomfortable. I don't recall having this problem before taking the Cytomel, but it was so long ago that it doesn't mean that it didn't happen. Is there something I can take for that as well?

4. If I were interested in starting an aas cycle, are there certain drugs that I should absolutely write off because of how it'll affect me with the other medication? Is there something someone would suggest trying? I did a round of var prior to the Cytomel and had good results and would like to do it again. I'm a powerlifter. As much as I want to get strong, I'm very concerned about masculine changes and am also really interested in something to help remove the excess weight I gathered when my thyroid stopped working right. I do cardio and weight lifting, but a little additional help would be nice, you know?

5. I tend to eat a pretty balanced diet, when I am good about shopping. Is there something I should add to it, with this diagnosis? My initial blood tests (pre-Cytomel) showed that a lot of other things were off, like cortisol and glucose. When I started the Cytomel, all this cleared up, but the first PA was trying to say that I was pre-diabetic... I firmly believe this is untrue and that she was searching for diagnoses and ignoring the lack of diabetic symptoms and the family history of thyroid issues (on both sides). I did, however, clean up my diet some after those tests, just in case, and I certainly could use it to help with the weight loss... which is just so stagnet. Warning to those giving advice: I'm horrible about sticking to a strict diet and ignoring cravings. Getting to a better, more balanced diet wasn't too hard, but I still satisfy cravings as needed and with as little as needed to satisfy.

6. My thyroid hormones seem to fluctuate despite the steady medication. Some days I will feel great. Some I have such a bad headache that I'm literally in tears, holding my head on/together. Sometimes I just don't feel "normal" but nothing too horrible, maybe a mild headache and a little sluggish, but nothing debilitating. This happened occasionally on the Cytomel, but maining on the Synthroid. Is this normal or should I be worried that something else might be going on?

I'd love to go back on the Cytomel, but am not crazy about the short half-life and definitely not about the cost (insurance doesn't cover). My mom's had great results with Synthroid and the cost is so much better... I know that Synthroid works, I'm just not sure if I'm correctly dosed yet.

Thank you to anyone that will help me... NB, I know this was lengthy, but I thought a little history was necessary... thank you.

NubianBeauty · 05-21-2008, 08:03 PM

A little history... Before any pills, I was sufferring from periods lasting 10 days at a time, occurring every other week; joint discomfort; quick, unexplained weight gain; hair falling out; extreme, even debilitating headaches; never feeling awake or actually sleeping too much (upwards around 18-20 hours at times); lethargic; being kind of forgetful or scatterbrained; allergies increased... to name the main ones. [Had ALL of these and then some!!!! So I surely know how you feel!!!]

He ran the right tests and I show "just slightly out of the normal range" on most thyroid blood tests, and when palpated, my thyroid apparently doesn't feel that large. [I absolutely HATE that range because it's soooooo wide!! I mean WTF does a person have to do! I feel your pain & frustration chica!!! You need to find a Dr that will treat your symptoms as well, which may take a while! But please do not give up and be relentless about this!! This is your body!]

It was a very low dose at 5 mcg, but it did the trick. Every one of my symptoms disappeared, even ones I wasn't aware of. The PA that I was originally seeing wanted to take me off, and I was in tears I was so fearful of the whole mess starting over again. The doctor was more sympathetic and kept me on it. The test results with me on the Cytomel were better, but still slightly out of normal. No dosage change though since I was feeling fine. [Was on that dose too... I actually ended up using Synthroid AND Cytomel.]

1. Is there a negative reaction to taking Cytomel with the Synthroid? [Not that I'm aware of because I was on both] I did it a few times, when I had debilitating headaches and couldn't wake up. For about 5 hours after taking the Cytomel (hours after taking the Synthroid), I felt great. I wasn't all hyper, like I thought I would be, kind of like my mom was when they had her on too high of a Synthroid dosage. Maybe a little speedy with my speech, but I had a dose of energy, could get so much done and felt great. Does this also confirm my suspicions that my Synthroid dosage is too low? [YES YES YES!!!]

2. Is there any supplements, vitamins or something like that that I can take when my symptoms are bad to help me get through the day? (Like people taking B-12 for energy) [There are a few supps I use when not on meds... like acetyl-l-tyrosine (500mg 2-3x/day), gugglersterones (25mg 2-3x/day), Coleus forskohlii (50mg 2x/day), and Extra Virgin Coconut Oil 2tbsp (2x/day)... more on where to get them later...]

3. Is water retention normal when thyroid hormones are off? [YES!!!! You have that puffy face looks @ all times when not on the correct dosages right? ] Since the medication change, I seem to be holding a lot of extra water, which is really uncomfortable. I don't recall having this problem before taking the Cytomel, but it was so long ago that it doesn't mean that it didn't happen. Is there something I can take for that as well? [For water retention I alternate between Uva Ursi and Dandelion root... I'll use 20mg Lasix if it gets really bad but only for 1-2 days.]

4. If I were interested in starting an aas cycle, are there certain drugs that I should absolutely write off because of how it'll affect me with the other medication? Is there something someone would suggest trying? I did a round of var prior to the Cytomel and had good results and would like to do it again. I'm a powerlifter. As much as I want to get strong, I'm very concerned about masculine changes and am also really interested in something to help remove the excess weight I gathered when my thyroid stopped working right. I do cardio and weight lifting, but a little additional help would be nice, you know? [Do I ever know!!!! LOL!! Let's get the thyroid AND diet under control before even broaching this subjust. OK? ]

5. I tend to eat a pretty balanced diet, when I am good about shopping. Is there something I should add to it, with this diagnosis? My initial blood tests (pre-Cytomel) showed that a lot of other things were off, like cortisol and glucose. When I started the Cytomel, all this cleared up, but the first PA was trying to say that I was pre-diabetic... I firmly believe this is untrue and that she was searching for diagnoses and ignoring the lack of diabetic symptoms and the family history of thyroid issues (on both sides). I did, however, clean up my diet some after those tests, just in case, and I certainly could use it to help with the weight loss... which is just so stagnet. Warning to those giving advice: I'm horrible about sticking to a strict diet and ignoring cravings. Getting to a better, more balanced diet wasn't too hard, but I still satisfy cravings as needed and with as little as needed to satisfy. [Foods to avoid are: broccoli, cabbage, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, kale, spinach, turnips, soybeans, peanuts, all soy if possible since it's in sooooo many foods. Now once you get back on some meds you can eat these foods in small amounts but still avoid soy if you can. ]

6. My thyroid hormones seem to fluctuate despite the steady medication. Some days I will feel great. Some I have such a bad headache that I'm literally in tears, holding my head on/together. Sometimes I just don't feel "normal" but nothing too horrible, maybe a mild headache and a little sluggish, but nothing debilitating. This happened occasionally on the Cytomel, but maining on the Synthroid. Is this normal or should I be worried that something else might be going on? [What was your last blood pressure? Could just be migraines but to be safe ask for an MRI.]

I'd love to go back on the Cytomel, but am not crazy about the short half-life and definitely not about the cost (insurance doesn't cover). My mom's had great results with Synthroid and the cost is so much better... I know that Synthroid works, I'm just not sure if I'm correctly dosed yet. [Cytomel should be taken throughout the day not all in one dose but all taken @ least 7-8 hrs before bed. ]

[Thank YOU for being so thorough!!!! This helps us help you! This helps with what we can suggest or recommend. ]

sassy69 · 05-22-2008, 01:00 AM

Fantastic post NB! Also thanks for sharing -- I think this is a great post for anyone dealing w/ hypothyroidism.

Pixie · 05-22-2008, 07:24 AM

Thanks, NB. I had the biggest calming sensation after reading that I'm not freaking out and this is all probably because of the medication switch. I like the doc I was with in Arizona and the one I'm with now. It was that dang PA that was the problem. The doc I have now is the one that's keeping me on the medication and even progressing me to something I feel is a better situation (once I'm on the right dosage). Thank you SO much.

As for your questions:

Quote:

Is water retention normal when thyroid hormones are off? [YES!!!! You have that puffy face looks @ all times when not on the correct dosages right? ]

Ah... YES!! That and my ankles. That's where it's most uncomfortable. I have a really screwed up ankle (4 surgeries) so it really aggrevates the old injury. My face being puffy is more of a vanity thing, but still uncomfortable.

Quote:

[Do I ever know!!!! LOL!! Let's get the thyroid AND diet under control before even broaching this subjust. OK? ]

Would you be willing to help me with the diet? You named some of my favorite things to avoid, like broccoli and peanuts. Like I said before, I have a hard time with strict diets, but am willing to work on adding "thyroid-better" foods.

Quote:

[What was your last blood pressure? Could just be migraines but to be safe ask for an MRI.]

My blood pressure usually runs around 120/80 when I'm not stressed. I get higher blood pressure readings when I go to the doctor due to anxiety. The migraine-like headaches are so similar to the thyroid ones I would have. I've had like 2-3 migraines my entire life and these ones were completely different.

Did I miss anything?

NubianBeauty · 05-22-2008, 08:01 PM

Sure... we can help you with diet. You don't have to stay away from those foods completely just have them in moderation when NOT on meds. What meds are you on right now? Dosage?

Pixie · 05-23-2008, 02:43 AM

Prescribed:
Synthroid 25mcg/day
Yasmin 28 1 pill/day
Cytomel 5 mcg on rare occasions when I feel I'm having problems

Additional:
Glucosamine Chondroitin & MSM
Taurine - 500 mg/day
ALA - 300 mg/day
Chromium Picolinate - 200 mcg 2x/day
Vanadyl Sulfate - 2 mg 2x/day

The last 4 on the "additional" list were recommended to me because my original tests (pre- any thyroid medications) showed that my glucose was off. I do not believe I'm "pre-diabetic" as my first PA was trying to say based off the original test since I have no symptoms, the blood tests improved once getting on Cytomel, and my fasting glucose was within the normal range. I think it was all related to the thyroid hormones being off. I mean, since it is the place for homeostasis and all... But, since I don't want diabetic issues and with the thyroid medication change, I started taking them to help my body process the food better. I guess it's working. I still don't have symptoms.

I have to say that I hate taking all those pills. But, if it'll help or if there are others that will as well, I'll get over it. I'd rather feel good, even just normal, than complain about taking a handful of pills each day.

Thanks, NB. I really appreciate your help. Like I said before, my mom is hypothyroid too, but she had completely different issues (since her tests were normal, just had an enlarged thyroid because it was working so hard to keep her in normal ranges). She seems to have a hard time relating sometimes, so she feels her advice is limited.

NubianBeauty · 05-23-2008, 07:20 AM

Your thyroid meds need to be consistent! So adding the 5mg Cytomel in every now & then isn't good for you. You either need to use it ED or get your Synthroid dose increased. Are your Cytomel tabs 5mg each? Is there a way you can half them?

Drop the ALA, Chromium P & Vanadyl and get on Glucorell. MUCH MUCH better option.... AND takes you from 3 to 1 pill.

Pixie · 05-23-2008, 07:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NubianBeauty

Drop the ALA, Chromium P & Vanadyl and get on Glucorell. MUCH MUCH better option.... AND takes you from 3 to 1 pill.

Yeah, I learned about Glucorell after purchasing the others. Man, I was bummed. Now, I'm just running down the current bottles before purchasing anything else. I will definitely go to Glucorell afterwards though.

As for the Cytomel, I was told to completely stop taking it by my doctor when they started me on Synthroid. It was my desperate decision to try some left-over Cytomel along with the Synthroid to see if it would "normalize" me... I couldn't have been happier but more frustrated that it made me feel "right". I've not continued to take it because I have a very limited number left and was saving it for desperate times. I just started on Synthroid in March this year. She was starting me conservative, said such and was aware that there may be some adjusting of dosages needed. I most certainly won't let her keep me on this dosage with the number of problems that are going on, despite what a blood test might show. Whether she will put me back on or add Cytomel or just increase the Synthroid, I have no idea. But what we currently have isn't right.

One pill of my Cytomel is 5 mcg. I probably can half them, but I only have maybe a little more than a dozen left. Should I go against the doctor's orders and use what I have left or should I just save them for desperate times? Should I only take half a pill during the course of a day or a whole pill? Also, if I add them in, I should stop taking them a couple days before (assuming they even last that long) my doctor's appointment to have blood tests that are representative of my hormones on the 25 mcg Synthroid only, right?

NubianBeauty · 05-23-2008, 08:58 PM

First you need to get your Synthroid dosage increased, which could completely eliminate you 'feeling' like you need a pick me up from the Cytomel. My Synthroid dose is/was 300mcg (highest dose possible)... the Dr thought that was the perfect dose for me BUT I did not fell 'normal' on that dose. I add 5mcg Cytomel on my own to Synthroid.... 10mcg when I want a boost when dieting. What exactly is your diagnosis? Is it just Hypothyroidism or something else? My diagnosis is Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, I have 2 goiters, and my thyroid is enlarged so I have a number of issues!!

Your Synthroid dose can be increased every 2 weeks by 25mcg so ask your Dr to test your levels every 2 weeks until you FEEL like your old self or some normalcy. Don't just go by lab tests!

05-18-2008, 07:47 PM	#1 (permalink)
Pixie Gold Member Join Date: May 2008 Location: Texas Posts: 1,117 Rep Power: 158094	Hypothyroid problems Anyone here have experience with hypothyroidism? I was diagnosed a few years ago, after a decade struggle with the symptoms of hypothyroidism, like horrible periods (sorry for the TMI), disabiling headaches, sleeping excessively, hair falling out, weight gain, etc. They tried me on Cytomel for a bit and because of my good results and the short half-life of Cytomel, they changed me to Synthroid. At this point, they are still trying to get me on a right dosage, but I have some concerns. Before I get too far into it, does anyone know anything about these drugs and hypothyroidism? I could use some help/advice/support... please.

05-19-2008, 02:29 PM	#2 (permalink)
Pixie Gold Member Join Date: May 2008 Location: Texas Posts: 1,117 Rep Power: 158094	Among other questions, I'm kind of curious about supplements that might help deal with some of these issues, as well as water retention. Since changing medications, I had some of the symptoms start again, but I've also started holding more water, particularly in my ankles. I don't like it. Can anyone help? This may not be in the best section of the board, but I was guessing females might have a better understanding with the female issues. Please...

05-19-2008, 04:26 PM	#3 (permalink)
Big Sky Guy Join Date: Feb 2002 Location: MT Posts: 2,686 Rep Power: 310934	Pix...my wife (Big Sky's Bride) is walking through what may be the beginning stages of hypo as her body appears to be attacking her thyroid gland. I posted a thread on her situation in the Off Topic section as we really do not have a "Health Section".

05-19-2008, 11:52 PM	#4 (permalink)
Pixie Gold Member Join Date: May 2008 Location: Texas Posts: 1,117 Rep Power: 158094	BSG, thanks for the reply. I read your thread and it was helpful. I think we posted kind of at the same time, just different places. I do wish your wife well. It's not a fun thing to go through. I just am looking for some others that might have some suggestions, advice, etc. for diet (outside of the good ol' balanced diet), supplements, exercise, and all that good stuff. My mom has hypothyroidism and I can get experience information from her, but we have completely different lifestyles, builds, metabolisms, etc., it seems like her advice has limits for me or hasn't worked much at all. Looking for help from people of a more similar background as me. Know of anyone or anything that might help?

05-20-2008, 05:54 PM	#5 (permalink)
NubianBeauty Super Moderator Join Date: Feb 2000 Posts: 8,473 Rep Power: 117142	Hi Pixie!!! I am hypothyroid... have been dealing with it for the past 4 years. I'm finally getting it removed next month. YAY!! What questions do you have? What dose of Cytomel did your doc start you with?

05-20-2008, 09:04 PM	#6 (permalink)
Pixie Gold Member Join Date: May 2008 Location: Texas Posts: 1,117 Rep Power: 158094	Oh, thank you NB. A little history... Before any pills, I was sufferring from periods lasting 10 days at a time, occurring every other week; joint discomfort; quick, unexplained weight gain; hair falling out; extreme, even debilitating headaches; never feeling awake or actually sleeping too much (upwards around 18-20 hours at times); lethargic; being kind of forgetful or scatterbrained; allergies increased... to name the main ones. The symptoms started around 1997 (around the age of 20), and it took about 10 years to get something diagnosed. Early on, I hadn't complained of much because I was thinking that it was just because I was in college, stressed or was just too busy to put the whole picture together. I was very aware that my mom had hypothyroidism, was on Synthroid, and the genetic link of it. There was a point, around 2001, when I started complaining about it to my woman doctor though. Blood tests were run but apparently not the right ones. I finally went to an endocrinologist in 2005, the one my mom sees for her hypothyroid. He ran the right tests and I show "just slightly out of the normal range" on most thyroid blood tests, and when palpated, my thyroid apparently doesn't feel that large. But, I certainly hate that test--major discomfort and feeling like I'm choking. Anyway, my test results were not so far out of normal that the PA that was "in charge of me" didn't want to do anything but monitor me to make sure I didn't get worse... all despite me telling her the mass of symptoms and how horrible it was. I later complained to the doctor (not the PA) about how horrible everything was and that I couldn't do anything and asked if there was a natural supplement, vitamin, or something I could take to help me through my symptoms. That's where I got the prescription for Cytomel. It was a very low dose at 5 mcg, but it did the trick. Every one of my symptoms disappeared, even ones I wasn't aware of. The PA that I was originally seeing wanted to take me off, and I was in tears I was so fearful of the whole mess starting over again. The doctor was more sympathetic and kept me on it. The test results with me on the Cytomel were better, but still slightly out of normal. No dosage change though since I was feeling fine. I recently moved to Texas and had to get a new doctor. I like this doctor because she recognized that I had results on the Cytomel and didn't want take me off thyroid medication, re-diagnose me with something else, etc. She did however want to put me on something that was a little more long-term, since, as she said, the Cytomel isn't even working on me for a full 24 hours. She's being conservative with starting my on a low dose of Synthroid at 25mcg. I was to completely come off the Cytomel and start Synthroid as of the beginning of March 2008. I am taking the Synthroid as directed--first thing in the morning on, empty stomach, and no eating for 60 minutes after taking the medication. As I expected, my symptoms started coming back--horrific period schedule; headaches; joint pain; very tired... I know that it takes 6-8 weeks before I should reach therapeutic levels. It's been more than that and I'm still having a hard time with this. My symptoms aren't as bad as they were at the beginning of the medication change, nor as bad as before the Cytomel, thank goodness, but I still don't feel normal. I believe my dosage isn't high enough, but won't know for sure until I get my next test results the beginning of June. The doctor is aware of the issues, and said I could come in for another blood test a couple weeks ago, but it wasn't a good time with moving (again), exams and trips. There really wasn't anything available until my scheduled appointment, so I'm waiting until then, but am so frustrated and have questions... Here they are... 1. Is there a negative reaction to taking Cytomel with the Synthroid? I did it a few times, when I had debilitating headaches and couldn't wake up. For about 5 hours after taking the Cytomel (hours after taking the Synthroid), I felt great. I wasn't all hyper, like I thought I would be, kind of like my mom was when they had her on too high of a Synthroid dosage. Maybe a little speedy with my speech, but I had a dose of energy, could get so much done and felt great. Does this also confirm my suspicions that my Synthroid dosage is too low? 2. Is there any supplements, vitamins or something like that that I can take when my symptoms are bad to help me get through the day? (Like people taking B-12 for energy) 3. Is water retention normal when thyroid hormones are off? Since the medication change, I seem to be holding a lot of extra water, which is really uncomfortable. I don't recall having this problem before taking the Cytomel, but it was so long ago that it doesn't mean that it didn't happen. Is there something I can take for that as well? 4. If I were interested in starting an aas cycle, are there certain drugs that I should absolutely write off because of how it'll affect me with the other medication? Is there something someone would suggest trying? I did a round of var prior to the Cytomel and had good results and would like to do it again. I'm a powerlifter. As much as I want to get strong, I'm very concerned about masculine changes and am also really interested in something to help remove the excess weight I gathered when my thyroid stopped working right. I do cardio and weight lifting, but a little additional help would be nice, you know? 5. I tend to eat a pretty balanced diet, when I am good about shopping. Is there something I should add to it, with this diagnosis? My initial blood tests (pre-Cytomel) showed that a lot of other things were off, like cortisol and glucose. When I started the Cytomel, all this cleared up, but the first PA was trying to say that I was pre-diabetic... I firmly believe this is untrue and that she was searching for diagnoses and ignoring the lack of diabetic symptoms and the family history of thyroid issues (on both sides). I did, however, clean up my diet some after those tests, just in case, and I certainly could use it to help with the weight loss... which is just so stagnet. Warning to those giving advice: I'm horrible about sticking to a strict diet and ignoring cravings. Getting to a better, more balanced diet wasn't too hard, but I still satisfy cravings as needed and with as little as needed to satisfy. 6. My thyroid hormones seem to fluctuate despite the steady medication. Some days I will feel great. Some I have such a bad headache that I'm literally in tears, holding my head on/together. Sometimes I just don't feel "normal" but nothing too horrible, maybe a mild headache and a little sluggish, but nothing debilitating. This happened occasionally on the Cytomel, but maining on the Synthroid. Is this normal or should I be worried that something else might be going on? I'd love to go back on the Cytomel, but am not crazy about the short half-life and definitely not about the cost (insurance doesn't cover). My mom's had great results with Synthroid and the cost is so much better... I know that Synthroid works, I'm just not sure if I'm correctly dosed yet. Thank you to anyone that will help me... NB, I know this was lengthy, but I thought a little history was necessary... thank you.

05-21-2008, 08:03 PM	#7 (permalink)
NubianBeauty Super Moderator Join Date: Feb 2000 Posts: 8,473 Rep Power: 117142	A little history... Before any pills, I was sufferring from periods lasting 10 days at a time, occurring every other week; joint discomfort; quick, unexplained weight gain; hair falling out; extreme, even debilitating headaches; never feeling awake or actually sleeping too much (upwards around 18-20 hours at times); lethargic; being kind of forgetful or scatterbrained; allergies increased... to name the main ones. [Had ALL of these and then some!!!! So I surely know how you feel!!!] He ran the right tests and I show "just slightly out of the normal range" on most thyroid blood tests, and when palpated, my thyroid apparently doesn't feel that large. [I absolutely HATE that range because it's soooooo wide!! I mean WTF does a person have to do! I feel your pain & frustration chica!!! You need to find a Dr that will treat your symptoms as well, which may take a while! But please do not give up and be relentless about this!! This is your body!] It was a very low dose at 5 mcg, but it did the trick. Every one of my symptoms disappeared, even ones I wasn't aware of. The PA that I was originally seeing wanted to take me off, and I was in tears I was so fearful of the whole mess starting over again. The doctor was more sympathetic and kept me on it. The test results with me on the Cytomel were better, but still slightly out of normal. No dosage change though since I was feeling fine. [Was on that dose too... I actually ended up using Synthroid AND Cytomel.] 1. Is there a negative reaction to taking Cytomel with the Synthroid? [Not that I'm aware of because I was on both] I did it a few times, when I had debilitating headaches and couldn't wake up. For about 5 hours after taking the Cytomel (hours after taking the Synthroid), I felt great. I wasn't all hyper, like I thought I would be, kind of like my mom was when they had her on too high of a Synthroid dosage. Maybe a little speedy with my speech, but I had a dose of energy, could get so much done and felt great. Does this also confirm my suspicions that my Synthroid dosage is too low? [YES YES YES!!!] 2. Is there any supplements, vitamins or something like that that I can take when my symptoms are bad to help me get through the day? (Like people taking B-12 for energy) [There are a few supps I use when not on meds... like acetyl-l-tyrosine (500mg 2-3x/day), gugglersterones (25mg 2-3x/day), Coleus forskohlii (50mg 2x/day), and Extra Virgin Coconut Oil 2tbsp (2x/day)... more on where to get them later...] 3. Is water retention normal when thyroid hormones are off? [YES!!!! You have that puffy face looks @ all times when not on the correct dosages right? ] Since the medication change, I seem to be holding a lot of extra water, which is really uncomfortable. I don't recall having this problem before taking the Cytomel, but it was so long ago that it doesn't mean that it didn't happen. Is there something I can take for that as well? [For water retention I alternate between Uva Ursi and Dandelion root... I'll use 20mg Lasix if it gets really bad but only for 1-2 days.] 4. If I were interested in starting an aas cycle, are there certain drugs that I should absolutely write off because of how it'll affect me with the other medication? Is there something someone would suggest trying? I did a round of var prior to the Cytomel and had good results and would like to do it again. I'm a powerlifter. As much as I want to get strong, I'm very concerned about masculine changes and am also really interested in something to help remove the excess weight I gathered when my thyroid stopped working right. I do cardio and weight lifting, but a little additional help would be nice, you know? [Do I ever know!!!! LOL!! Let's get the thyroid AND diet under control before even broaching this subjust. OK? ] 5. I tend to eat a pretty balanced diet, when I am good about shopping. Is there something I should add to it, with this diagnosis? My initial blood tests (pre-Cytomel) showed that a lot of other things were off, like cortisol and glucose. When I started the Cytomel, all this cleared up, but the first PA was trying to say that I was pre-diabetic... I firmly believe this is untrue and that she was searching for diagnoses and ignoring the lack of diabetic symptoms and the family history of thyroid issues (on both sides). I did, however, clean up my diet some after those tests, just in case, and I certainly could use it to help with the weight loss... which is just so stagnet. Warning to those giving advice: I'm horrible about sticking to a strict diet and ignoring cravings. Getting to a better, more balanced diet wasn't too hard, but I still satisfy cravings as needed and with as little as needed to satisfy. [Foods to avoid are: broccoli, cabbage, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, kale, spinach, turnips, soybeans, peanuts, all soy if possible since it's in sooooo many foods. Now once you get back on some meds you can eat these foods in small amounts but still avoid soy if you can. ] 6. My thyroid hormones seem to fluctuate despite the steady medication. Some days I will feel great. Some I have such a bad headache that I'm literally in tears, holding my head on/together. Sometimes I just don't feel "normal" but nothing too horrible, maybe a mild headache and a little sluggish, but nothing debilitating. This happened occasionally on the Cytomel, but maining on the Synthroid. Is this normal or should I be worried that something else might be going on? [What was your last blood pressure? Could just be migraines but to be safe ask for an MRI.] I'd love to go back on the Cytomel, but am not crazy about the short half-life and definitely not about the cost (insurance doesn't cover). My mom's had great results with Synthroid and the cost is so much better... I know that Synthroid works, I'm just not sure if I'm correctly dosed yet. [Cytomel should be taken throughout the day not all in one dose but all taken @ least 7-8 hrs before bed. ] [Thank YOU for being so thorough!!!! This helps us help you! This helps with what we can suggest or recommend. ]

05-22-2008, 01:00 AM	#8 (permalink)
sassy69 Super Moderator Join Date: Feb 2004 Posts: 7,557 Rep Power: 347516	Fantastic post NB! Also thanks for sharing -- I think this is a great post for anyone dealing w/ hypothyroidism.

05-22-2008, 08:01 PM	#10 (permalink)
NubianBeauty Super Moderator Join Date: Feb 2000 Posts: 8,473 Rep Power: 117142	Sure... we can help you with diet. You don't have to stay away from those foods completely just have them in moderation when NOT on meds. What meds are you on right now? Dosage?

05-23-2008, 08:58 PM	#14 (permalink)
NubianBeauty Super Moderator Join Date: Feb 2000 Posts: 8,473 Rep Power: 117142	First you need to get your Synthroid dosage increased, which could completely eliminate you 'feeling' like you need a pick me up from the Cytomel. My Synthroid dose is/was 300mcg (highest dose possible)... the Dr thought that was the perfect dose for me BUT I did not fell 'normal' on that dose. I add 5mcg Cytomel on my own to Synthroid.... 10mcg when I want a boost when dieting. What exactly is your diagnosis? Is it just Hypothyroidism or something else? My diagnosis is Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, I have 2 goiters, and my thyroid is enlarged so I have a number of issues!! Your Synthroid dose can be increased every 2 weeks by 25mcg so ask your Dr to test your levels every 2 weeks until you FEEL like your old self or some normalcy. Don't just go by lab tests!