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Suggest Treatment For Hypothyroidism
Question: I have been dealing with an illness called Graves disease for 2 years. The illness has now changed to hypothyroidism. Symptoms of Hypothyroidism include weight gain, depression, brain fog and poor memory. My endocrinologist, primary doctor and ob/gyn all agree that my blood work for the hypothyroidism is in normal range, however, my symptoms still persist. I do not feel like myself anymore. I have lost my confidence due to weight gain (despite proper diet and excersise) and brain fog. Work is challenging. I have a very poor sense of well being. My doctor's say there is nothing they can do because all my blood levels are 'normal". I feel a sense of hopelessness. I feel that I will never get better and there is no one to help. I don't want to go out, I don't want to go to work. I don't want to live this poor quality of life anymore. I hav only had these feelings since the hypothyroidism diagnosis. How do I feel better?
Brief Answer:
Consultation
Detailed Answer:
Hello, and thank you very much for your premium question. I have read your current question and all previous questions in detail. I believe I have a proper understanding of your situation. Let me give you my thoughts.
You are describing clinical symptoms of hypothyroidism despite blood levels that suggest you are euthyroid. Let me reassure you that you CAN have symptoms of hypothyroidism even if your blood levels appear normal. When this happens, I take a couple of common approaches with my patients that are very effective.
First, I work with the patient's endocrinologist to raise the level of thyroid hormone supplementation as high as they will allow. I want the Free T4 blood level to be as high as possible while still in the "normal" range. I also recommend adding T3, which has been shown in clinical trials to work as an antidepressant.
Second, I recommend the addition of an antidepressant to target depressive symptoms. Even though your depressive symptoms are caused by thyroid problems, when the thyroid levels are in normal ranges, the treatment is the same -- an antidepressant will cure these symptoms over time. I would recommend starting with an SSRI such as Lexapro or Zoloft. It may take up to 4-6 weeks to take full effect.
I am confident that with this treatment approach you will feel better!
I see you have asked many premium questions. In the future, for continuity of care, I encourage you to contact me at my private link below. After you ask a direct question it would be my pleasure to be your dedicated personal physician on this website. My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX doctor working in New York City at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, ranked #1 for Psychiatry in the United States (tinyurl.com/psyrank). For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, and individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private link: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers
Consultation
Detailed Answer:
Hello, and thank you very much for your premium question. I have read your current question and all previous questions in detail. I believe I have a proper understanding of your situation. Let me give you my thoughts.
You are describing clinical symptoms of hypothyroidism despite blood levels that suggest you are euthyroid. Let me reassure you that you CAN have symptoms of hypothyroidism even if your blood levels appear normal. When this happens, I take a couple of common approaches with my patients that are very effective.
First, I work with the patient's endocrinologist to raise the level of thyroid hormone supplementation as high as they will allow. I want the Free T4 blood level to be as high as possible while still in the "normal" range. I also recommend adding T3, which has been shown in clinical trials to work as an antidepressant.
Second, I recommend the addition of an antidepressant to target depressive symptoms. Even though your depressive symptoms are caused by thyroid problems, when the thyroid levels are in normal ranges, the treatment is the same -- an antidepressant will cure these symptoms over time. I would recommend starting with an SSRI such as Lexapro or Zoloft. It may take up to 4-6 weeks to take full effect.
I am confident that with this treatment approach you will feel better!
I see you have asked many premium questions. In the future, for continuity of care, I encourage you to contact me at my private link below. After you ask a direct question it would be my pleasure to be your dedicated personal physician on this website. My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX doctor working in New York City at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, ranked #1 for Psychiatry in the United States (tinyurl.com/psyrank). For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, and individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private link: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Sonia Raina
Answered by
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