How to Live With Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which your body is not making enough thyroid hormone. Some common symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, depression, irritability, and even decreased libido. There are a number of causes, but whatever the cause, it is important to see your doctor regularly to manage your hypothyroidism.
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Instructions
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Visit your doctor to find out if you do have hypothyroidism. This can only be determined with a simple blood test.
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Find an endocrinologist if you do have hypothyroidism. Endocrinologists are doctors that specialize in metabolic conditions that affect your glands, like your thyroid, and they will have experience treating hypothyroidism.
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Talk to you endocrinologist (or other doctor) about how you feel. The main test to see if your hypothyroidism is under control is a blood test to see if your thyroid hormone levels are in the normal range. However, since the normal range is pretty wide, you may still feel lethargic or down even if you are in the normal range. So while your results might be in the normal range, it might not be normal for you.
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Inform all your doctors if you have hypothyroidism. It is important for them to know.
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Tell your endocrinologist if you are taking birth control pills. Some women need to have their thyroid medication increased when taking birth control pills.
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Tell your endocrinologist if you get pregnant. You might need an increased dose of your medication when pregnant.
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Take your medication at the same time each day-at least one hour before eating. Most people take their medicine first thing in the morning, but find a time that works for you.
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Don't take iron supplements or calcium supplements when you take your thyroid medication. They can interfere with your body's absorption of the thyroid medicine. It is recommended you leave 4 hours between taking these supplements and taking your thyroid medication.
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Don't be afraid to tell your doctor if you don't feel normal yet. It can take a several attempts to find the right dosage of the right medication. Remember that what is normal for someone else might not work for you.
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See your endocrinologist every 6 to 12 months for checkups, and more often if you are not feeling well.
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Tips & Warnings
It is important to take your thyroid medication regularly. Check with your pharmacy to see if they offer an auto-refill program, so you won't wake up one morning to find out you are out of thyroid medicine.
Talk to your family members about your hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is often genetic, so if your family members are experiencing any unexplained fatigue, dry skin or hair, forgetfulness, or depression, they might want to have their thyroid levels tested.
You might find some alternative thyroid medications in health food stores. These have not been tested by the FDA, and their results can vary. While they might be effective for some people, others have had dangerous reactions to some of their ingredients. Always consult with your doctor before adding these to your regimen.
