Beauty

[maestra]

My thyroid gland burned out 2 yrs. ago during chemotherapy. I am fine now except for a wonky thyroid and levels that are all over the place.

I have been working w/my internist and have gone from Levothyroxine to Armour now to Synthroid. My levels have been too high or too low.

Now, I'm supposed to go from 100mcg to 88 mcg in Synthroid. My TSH is too high. Does this mean I am taking less meds or does this mean the concentration of meds is higher. I do have a rudimentary understanding of thyroid dysfunction, but now I am confused. I have not yet gone to an endocrinologist b/c there are only 2 in the place where I live( Hooterville, in the South) and a 10 month wait to become a new patient. The next nearest is a 2hour (1 way drive) trip away.

TIA!

[maestra]

BTW- I am still very hypo symptomatic: hair loss, weight gain, cold intolerance, fatigue, constipation. That is why I am asking these question; my MD has tried to explain to the best of his ability but I still don't understand.

[ahoymate]

Why not ask your MD these questions? Write them down when you go in so you can get answers.

If U have an internist you trust, you don't necessarily need an endocrinologist. If U don't trust your MD, find another.

As a long time Synthroid patient, who goes to an endocrinologist, it's complicated. Blood levels fluctuate, especially during pre & post menopause. You'll need to get blood tests every year & see the doctor. Trust your MD or find another one.

[maestra]

I have asked and he answers but as you pointed out it is complicated and I DONT understand. I was hoping one of the friendly ladies here might better explain in layman terms.

[ahoymate]

On 6/30/2014 maestra said:

I have asked and he answers but as you pointed out it is complicated and I DONT understand. I was hoping one of the friendly ladies here might better explain in layman terms.

Sorry, it is complicated and you'll have to do your own homework. Go to WebMD, and other reputable medical websites.

[maestra]

thanks, I will do that also. I have been trying google to do research.

[Mummadukes]

Hi maestro, I totally symphazise with you. I have been on the thyroid medicine wheel for years. I have finally found an Endo who would listen to me and my numbers, not just the TSH on a blood test.

I am now taking Nature-Thyroid and from the very first pill I could tell the difference. Keep doing your research but look into this one as well.

Good Luck!

[Tricolor]

When it is high that means that you are getting too much of your thyroid meds and it needs to be lowered. Synthroid is the brand name. Levothyroxine is the generic and many endocrinologists prefer that the brand name be given because it stabilizes your levels better.

[Irishrose136]

Now, I'm supposed to go from 100mcg to 88 mcg in Synthroid. My TSH is too high. Does this mean I am taking less meds or does this mean the concentration of meds is higher.

As a layperson who also takes Synthroid, it is my understanding that 88mcg is a smaller dose than 100mcg.

The concentration is the same. You are comparing mcg to mcg - apples to apples.

If you feel your case is complicated, I would at least get a 2nd opinion from an endocrinologist. They know how to "tweak" the medicines for a better result.

Good luck, maestra!

[Irishrose136]

oOn 6/30/2014 maestra said:

BTW- I am still very hypo symptomatic: hair loss, weight gain, cold intolerance, fatigue, constipation. That is why I am asking these question; my MD has tried to explain to the best of his ability but I still don't understand.

You may have to wait a while for an appointment, or travel, but seriously, internists are jacks of ALL trades. It sounds like you would do well with a specialist. Often, they work with Nurse Practitioners or P.A.s who have the knowledge and the time to answer all your questions.

I like the nurse practitioner at my endocrinologist's office so much that I would rather see her than the m.d.

eta: stupid spelling