Secondary Hypothyroidism And You

It can be difficult and confusing trying to translate medical jargon into something regular people can understand. A doctor can tell you that you have secondary hypothyroidism, but what does that really mean? Many people hear something they don’t immediately understand and start to panic and may not hear the explanation, even if one is offered. Here you will learn exactly what secondary hypothyroidism is and how it affects you.

First, The Thyroid

This small gland, located at the base of your throat, carries a lot of responsibility. As a matter of fact, it regulates the metabolism of every single cell in your body. Operating on signals from the pituitary gland in the brain, the thyroid produces two hormones: thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones help the cells metabolize energy, regulate the body temperature and stimulate vitamin metabolism, among other functions.

What Happens When The Thyroid Goes On Strike

If the function of the thyroid is compromised, or it stops working, a host of symptoms can occur. These can include but are not limited to:

A chronic feeling of being tired
Depression
A small weight gain, or difficulty in losing weight
Low heart rate
A significant sensitivity to cold temperatures
Thinning hair
Muscle and joint aches and pains
Pale, dry skin
Mental fogginess
Irregular menstrual periods
Infertility issues
Heart disease
Diabetes

Many of these symptoms can also be attributed to other diseases or illnesses. It is imperative if you are experiencing any of the above or a combination that you seek out your physician for a proper diagnosis. Without a correct diagnosis, you could be receiving the wrong treatment.

What Is Secondary Hypothyroidism?

When you hear the word “secondary”, you might think it’s nothing serious, but this is not the case. When speaking of hypothyroidism, the word “secondary” refers to the cause. Some cases of hypothyroidism are caused by a direct problem with the thyroid gland. This is known as primary hypothyroidism. If the function of the thyroid is impacted by injury, illness or disease of the pituitary or hypothalamus gland (both necessary to signal the thyroid to do its job) it is known as “secondary” hypothyroidism.

What’s the difference? Well, the difference is significant because it really determines the best way to treat the hypothyroidism. Although hypothyroidism is treated primarily with hormone replacement therapy, the underlying cause of the condition must also be addressed. Secondary hypothyroidism can be caused by radiation to the brain, tumors of the hypothalamus or pituitary gland, infection or inflammation. Naturally, these issues must be resolved in addition to treating the underactive thyroid.

How Secondary Hypothyroidism Is Diagnosed

Typically a patient will visit their doctor and tell him about their symptoms. An extensive personal and family health will be taken, and the blood pressure and heart rate are monitored in a physical examination. Then bloods tests measuring the levels of T3 and T4 will be done. Additional blood tests may be likely to check cholesterol levels and liver function. In order to rule out other causes, imaging tests such as X-rays or an MRI might be required.

Life-long hormone replacement therapy is usually warranted, but in the case of secondary hypothyroidism, surgery may be needed to remove a tumor if that is indeed the cause of the problem. After surgery, you will need hormone replacement therapy.

The Outlook Of Secondary Hypothyroidism

Although hypothyroidism, either secondary or primary, is not a curable condition, the symptoms are typically managed very well with medication. Most people go on to lead normal and active lives after the condition has been diagnosed and treatment started. As a matter of fact, many people report that once they start treatment, they feel better than they have in years.

The symptoms of hypothyroidism can be vague and difficult to pinpoint, and then they can be attributed to a number of different illnesses or diseases that present with the same kind of symptoms. Therefore, it is really important that you visit your doctor and undergo testing. Otherwise, it’s likely you could receive treatment for something you don’t even have which won’t solve your problem and just lead to more frustration.

If you aren’t clear about what’s going on, don’t be afraid to ask your health care professional to repeat themselves. It’s often a good idea to bring a family member or friend with you, so they can also hear the information your doctor is giving you. Secondary hypothyroidism isn’t the best diagnosis to get, but with the proper treatment for the problem you can go on to much better health.

Some Answers about Subclinical Hypothyroidism

Sometimes, medical terms can sound really frightening. The words are big and confusing; medical personnel have their own jargon that sounds like they’re speaking a totally different language. Many times it’s difficult to get a straight answer to a simple question. This article will explain exactly what subclinical hypothyroidism is and what it means to you.

What Is Subclinical Hypothyroidism?

First of all, let’s explore hypothyroidism. The thyroid is a little gland shaped like a bow-tie and located at the base of your throat. It wraps around the windpipe just below the Adam’s apple, if you’re a male. Although small and unimpressive, this gland is involved in the metabolism of every cell in your body by producing hormones known as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones regulate the metabolism of carbohydrates, oxygen, and growth hormones plus much more. They help convert oxygen and calories to energy, so they play a major role in weight loss or gain, energy levels and the regulation of body temperature.

Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid is not making enough of the hormones to do their job. This can lead to all kinds of symptoms. The main symptoms of hypothyroidism include:

Constant fatigue
Modest weight gain, or difficulty losing weight
Depression
Constipation
Coarse, dry hair
Dry, scaly pale skin
Sensitivity to cold
Muscle or joint pain
Irritability
Memory loss
Abnormal menstrual cycles

Where The “Subclinical” Comes In

Now that you understand what the thyroid is and what it does, and what can happen when it’s not pulling its weight, here’s where things may become a little confusing. Either you have hypothyroidism or you don’t right?

Not necessarily. Subclinical hypothyroidism means your thyroid may still be secreting hormones, just not enough to get the job done effectively. Sometimes you may be asymptomatic, meaning you are not experiencing symptoms at all, or you may experience one or two. The symptoms, in other words, are not easily seen or even that noticeable, but they are there.
How Subclinical Hypothyroidism Is Diagnosed

If some of the symptoms listed above are ringing a bell and you suspect you might have subclinical hypothyroidism, the first thing to do is set up an appointment with your physician. Through a thorough medical history and physical exam in conjunction with specific blood tests, your physician can determine if this indeed is the diagnosis. Your doctor may also order a scan of the thyroid, or a measurement of other antibodies in your bloodstream that will indicate a problem with the production of the hormones.

The truth is the thyroid, although small, is a complicated organ performing a complicated job. Many times a simple blood test is all that’s needed to pinpoint the problem, and additional testing can confirm the diagnosis from there. The problem here is the symptoms alone aren’t enough for a confirmed diagnosis, as the same symptoms can also present for many other conditions including menopause, depression or a number of other illnesses.

Risk Factors For Subclinical Hypothyroidism

Any one of these risk factors can help with the diagnosis of subclinical hypothyroidism.

Women over 50
Partial or complete removal of the thyroid
Exposure to radiation of the chest or head
People with an autoimmune disease
People who have relatives with an autoimmune disease
Pregnancy
Certain infections

Treatment Of Subclinical Hypothyroidism

Unfortunately, there is no cure for hypothyroidism whether or not it is subclinical. The only treatment available is medication in the form of hormone replacement therapy. You can make certain lifestyle or dietary changes to insure you are taking the lowest dose possible, but once diagnosed with subclinical hypothyroidism you will be taking a medication for the rest of your life.

What is subclinical hypothyroidism? It simply means you are not making enough thyroid hormones. The symptoms maybe be undetectable or they may significantly affect the activities of daily living. Either way, it is a condition that must be treated lest it lead to other health problems such as diabetes. Fortunately, once it is recognized it is relatively easy to treat, and upon treatment the majority of afflicted people report much improved health. The important thing is to consult with your health care provider to determine if subclinical hypothyroidism is a problem for you, and to get the proper treatment.

Understanding Hypothyroidism and Diabetes

In order to understand the connection between hypothyroidism and diabetes, first you must understand the role the thyroid plays in the body’s metabolism. It’s not surprising that the two are related, since the thyroid affects every organ and cell in the body. While having hypothyroidism doesn’t mean you will develop diabetes or vice-versa, there is strong evidence to support there is a strong connection between the two. By understanding one condition, it may help to understand the other and in turn, help you to manage both better.

What The Thyroid Does

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your throat. It is an integral part of the endocrine system, and regulates the majority of the metabolic processes in the body, including insulin production. This little gland is the only one which can absorb iodine; in addition, it produces essential hormones such as T3 and T4, used to help convert oxygen and calories into energy. It affects every cell in the body.

Why The Thyroid Goes On Strike

An underactive thyroid can be caused by a number of different factors such as surgery, radiation or even aging. You are at particular risk for hypothyroidism if:

You are a woman over 50
You’ve had part or all of your thyroid removed
You’ve been exposed to radiation of the chest or neck
You have an autoimmune disease
You have a primary family member with an autoimmune disease

The Connection Between Hypothyroidism And Diabetes

Hypothyroidism slows down the body’s metabolic processes. Simple sugars and carbohydrates are converted to sugar for energy. In response, the pancreas produces insulin, which activates the cells to absorb blood sugar and store energy. When the pancreas slows down due to an underactive thyroid (remember, the thyroid is responsible for the metabolic processes of the body) this prevents the pancreas from doing its job. This is the situation which can lead to a situation of having hypothyroidism and diabetes.

What Does That Mean In The Long Run?

If you are diagnosed with hypothyroidism, it is not a given you will develop diabetes, but it is a huge risk factor and something to consider. Not all diabetics have hypothyroidism, and not all people with hypothyroidism will have diabetes, especially if hypothyroid sufferers take early steps to prevent this from happening.

The exception is children with hypothyroidism. Since the condition is usually much more severe in kids than it is adults, the incidence of diabetes is much higher in children. Kids are typically tested at birth for any thyroid problems because of the severity of both conditions.

Beating The Combo Of Hypothyroidism And Diabetes

If you are an adult and diagnosed with hypothyroidism, the first thing is to be aware that diabetes is a real risk. Making changes now, at the beginning, is important to avoid the ravages and health concerns of diabetes. The good news is you can do this with just a few significant lifestyle changes.

Modify your diet. Eat a low carbohydrate, low-fat, high protein diet. Refined sugar and white flour should be avoided as they can cause blood sugar spikes and require your pancreas to work overtime.

Eat smaller, but more often. Eating six small meals a day, regularly spaced out, is a lot better than three large meals. It keeps your blood sugar more stable throughout the day.

Exercise regularly. Increasing your activity level and incorporating exercise on a regular basis helps to regulate the metabolism of your body and can also help in weight loss.

The Bottom Line Regarding Hypothyroidism And Diabetes

It can be difficult to hear you have been diagnosed with hypothyroidism and all that entails let alone being diagnosed with hypothyroidism AND diabetes. You might feel as if your whole world has been turned upside down, or you may feel relief that you now have an answer to a problem which has plagued you for years. However, that’s just the beginning – knowing you are at greater risk for diabetes means you need to be vigilant about your health. However, the good news is you can make simple changes now which may help you to avoid problems later.

Knowledge is power, and forewarned is forearmed, especially in the battle to stay as healthy as possible. A diagnosis of hypothyroidism doesn’t seal your fate as a diabetic, but gives you an opportunity to make changes now for a better and healthier future and to avoid the combination of hypothyroidism and diabetes.

Hypothyroidism and Depression and Their Relationship Explained

Hypothyroidism and depression are two different and separate conditions. However, the two of them are closely linked, which can cause a problem in both diagnosis and treatment of depression and hypothyroidism. Misdiagnosis means an incorrect treatment plan which can cause much frustration as the underlying problem continues unaddressed. Therefore, it is important to evaluate whether or not an underactive thyroid could be the culprit behind depression symptoms.

Your Thyroid, Hypothyroidism and Depression

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your throat. Don’t let the small size fool you; this one gland has an effect on almost every single organ and cell of the body. The thyroid secretes a hormone which is vital to the metabolism of the body. If the thyroid gland becomes underactive, it can cause a host of hypothyroidism symptoms including depression. Other symptoms include:

Fatigue
Lethargy
Slow heartbeat
Sensitivity to cold
Constipation
Darkening of the skin
Joint and muscle pain or cramps
Weight gain

Many of these symptoms correspond to the symptoms of depression, so it can be difficult to tell if you’re experiencing depression or the actual physical problem of an underactive thyroid. If you are treated for depression when the underlying issue is actually hypothyroidism, the treatment will often be inadequate.

Hypothyroidism and Depression Treatments

The feelings of sadness which are a hallmark of depression are the same whether you or not you suffer from hypothyroidism. However, the treatment is different. While antidepressants for depression alone can improve the situation, if the cause is hypothyroidism they just might not be effective. Recent studies have shown if hypothyroidism is the cause of depression, including the hormone T3 in the treatment can significantly improve the response to antidepressants. Furthermore, this treatment plan is much more effective for women than for men.

It’s important if you are feeling depressed or have been diagnosed with depression and have found small relief from medication you should be screened for hypothyroidism, especially if you fall into one of the risk categories:

Females older than 50
People with an autoimmune disease
Close relatives with an autoimmune disease
Past radiation to the head or chest
Thyroid surgery, such as the removal or partial removal of the thyroid

If you fit any of those profiles, you are at higher risk for developing hypothyroidism. Further complicating the picture is the fact women over 50 are also most likely going through menopause, which also has many symptoms mimicking hypothyroidism and can cause feelings of depression. Chances are if you’ve had thyroid surgery, you most likely are already on some kind of thyroid medication.

Diagnosing Hypothyroidism and Depression

It can be a very complicated process to evaluate which is the true culprit for depression, especially in women. Although the problem could be the thyroid, depression symptoms can occur because of menopause, as well. It is a lot to consider, but the main objective is to pinpoint the cause of the problem in order to implement the best course of treatment for optimal benefits.

The problem is, if an issue with the thyroid is not identified and treated, it can lead to severe health concerns plus make the depression even worse, even if the depression is being treated with antidepressants. If you feel depressed, it is imperative you are evaluated for hypothyroidism since the two are so closely linked.

To better help your doctor determine if your depression may be caused by hypothyroidism, it is important you pay special attention to the symptoms you are experiencing. Although your physician will typically order specific blood tests to measure the level of thyroid hormones in your bloodstream, sometimes these tests can be inaccurate. For a correct diagnosis, the doctor must also be aware of the symptoms you’re having and the only one who can tell him that is you. Make notes of the issues as you become aware of them, and take them in to your doctor.

The Importance of Seeing Your Physician If You Suffer from Hypothyroidism and Depression

It is common for people who have depression to have problems seeing a doctor, but it really is very important that you do so. If you are the victim of an underactive thyroid, simply taking an antidepressant for your depression won’t be enough. With the proper diagnosis, you can receive the proper treatment and while it may not solve all your problems, it will definitely be a step toward better overall health in managing your hypothyroidism and depression.

Hypothyroidism In Men – An Underactive Thyroid Is Not Just For Women

Hypothyroidism in Men? Why do you guys have to hog in on everything? When you think of hypothyroidism in general, you may think the majority of people with the condition are typically female. You would be correct. However, that doesn’t mean hypothyroidism in men doesn’t occur – because it does. Not only do the symptoms present a little differently, the testing range of the blood samples taken from patients was adjusted in 2002 by the Society of Endocrinologists. This means many men with hypothyroidism have been under-diagnosed and under-reported.

Even today, laboratory tests have not been corrected to reflect this testing range modification. The test results may indicate laboratory values in the low range of “normal”, but in that case a man could be dismissed as borderline. Some men who tested for symptoms of hypothyroid were later diagnosed with fibromyalgia, leading researchers to explore the possible relationship between the two disorders.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism In Men

The symptoms of hypothyroidism in men are similar to the symptoms as they appear in women:

• Hair loss
• Fatigue
• Dry skin
• Gradual weight gain
• Constipation
• Intolerance to cold temperatures
• Sexual dysfunction
• Depression
• Memory loss

As with many thyroid patients, these symptoms often take time to develop. A number of men don’t realize what the symptoms of hypothyroidism mean, or how they can build over a matter of months or even years before they start impacting the activities of daily living. Then, when blood tests are run and the levels are judged by outdated parameters, men are leaving the health care facility with no answers.

Some health care professionals contend diagnosing by blood test alone is not enough, especially in the case of men. Therefore, it is very important that males who suspect they may be experiencing hypothyroidism also keep track of their symptoms to include when and how often they occur. This way, the doctor receives a complete picture and can make a more informed decision about a proper diagnosis.

The treatment for hypothyroidism is simply replacing the hormones the thyroid is no longer producing. Typically, the first medication prescribed is a synthetic form of the hormone called levothyroxine, or Synthroid. Those who wish for a more natural treatment can choose Armour, made from desiccated pig thyroids and the treatment of choice for decades before Synthroid was developed. Some patients, if they do not find success with Synthroid, progress much better with Armour.

Another problem with diagnosing hypothyroidism in men is they don’t come in for regular doctor visits like women will. Women are used to going in for an annual check-up for gynecological issues, but men don’t have to get a Pap smear (which is hardly fair) and so don’t visit the physician as often. They may dismiss the symptoms as the normal ravages of time and old age, or just not notice how much the condition may have advanced.

It’s important that a guy pay attention to what’s going on with his body, especially as he gets older. Of course, that little piece of advice won’t make anybody popular at parties, but it’s the truth. Especially if you feel like something is wrong – maybe some of the symptoms listed above are ringing a bell. If so, request additional testing from your doctor from a reputable laboratory.

Not only should you be tested for TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) you should also have your T3 and T4 levels tested, which are the hormones produced by the thyroid. This, coupled with a detailed health journal will help your doctor arrive at the right diagnosis so he can prescribe the best treatment. Hypothyroidism in Men, who would of thought of that?

Hypothyroidism Blood Tests:Detecting Hypothyroidism With Through Blood Work

Do you need a hypothyroidism blood test? Oh, how we all wish there were easy answers to our medical questions, don’t we? Unfortunately, the human body is a very complex and mysterious biological machine, and it is not easy to pinpoint the cause when something goes wrong. As a matter of fact, the more you learn about the human body the more you marvel that more things don’t go wrong on a more frequent basis.

Be that as it may, if you are a female over the age of fifty, you are much more likely to develop the signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism than any other age group or gender. What makes it particularly difficult to arrive at a diagnosis of hypothyroidism for women is the fact this very age group is most likely going through the process of menopause. Talk about adding gasoline to a fire! Additionally, the symptoms of hypothyroidism occur over time and sneak up on you. Take a look at this list underactive thyroid symptoms:

• Fatigue
• Sensitivity to cold
• Weight gain
• Memory loss
• Brittle hair and nails
• Dry skin
• Muscle aches and pains
• Swelling joints
• Irritability and mood swings

When to get a Hypothyroidism Blood Test

If you are exhibiting a number of these symptoms, it might be time for a blood test for hypothyroidism. What is your doctor looking for? A hypothyroidism blood test will consist of measuring the level of TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone). The level of TSH will tell your doctor if your thyroid is making enough hormone to keep the TSH low. A higher level means the TSH is prodding the thyroid to make more hormones, meaning the thyroid is not making enough.

However, this often isn’t good enough. Sometimes the TSH will come back as borderline. So, where does that leave you? The hypothyroidism blood test results indicate you are not ill enough to require medication, and yet you still feel tired, your hair is falling out, and right about now, without a definitive answer, you probably feel like ripping someone’s head off. Whoa! Slow down. It’s not over yet.

In addition to the TSH, your doctor can also order a blood test to determine thyroid function that includes the levels of T3 and T4, hormones produced by the thyroid. Many believe this is where the truth of the matter lies. If these levels are off and so is the TSH, there’s a good chance you’re having major thyroid issues.

That is still not enough. It is imperative you keep some kind of health journal or notes about how you are feeling and the symptoms you’re experiencing. A reputable doctor won’t base his or her diagnosis on the thyroid hormone blood test alone. They will also consider the symptoms you’re having, the impact they have on your life and compare that with the blood tests for a complete picture. A blood test only tells part of the story.

So, the short answer to the question of whether hypothyroidism can always be detected by a blood test, is no. Sometimes the blood tests are inconclusive, borderline or not definitive enough to indicate a problem. In cases like that, the health care provider should be considering other mitigating factors in diagnosing hypothyroidism. This is where you, the patient, comes in. It is up to you to provide the most accurate information to the doctor about the symptoms you are having to present the clearest picture of your health.

Keep a current health journal if you suspect your body is doing something behind your back. Present the symptoms to your doctor so he can make an informed judgment and prescribe the best form of treatment. Don’t let your body get away with making your life miserable, no matter what a hypothyroidism blood test might say!

Can Hypothyroidism Affect Your Nervous System?

Hypothyroidism nervous system problems? Who knew you could suffer so much from the dysfunction of such a little gland? The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland located just below your larynx, or voice box. Most of your life you don’t even know it’s there, much less the amount of work it is responsible for when it comes to the metabolism functions of the body. Like most organs, you don’t realize what it does or how important it is until it stops functioning.

When the thyroid stops working properly, it throws your whole body out of whack. That’s because the thyroid is really up in everyone’s business – it plays a part in how your body regulates its temperature, how it derives energy from the cells and plays an important role in every single process of the body from reproduction to regulating growth. Of course hypothyroidism can affect the nervous system.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

Without enough T3 and T4, the hormones produced by the thyroid, you can experience some or all of the following symptoms:

• Fatigue
• Constipation
• Dry skin
• Brittle nails and hair
• Inability to deal with cold temperatures
• Hair loss
• Sluggishness
• Muscle aches and pains
• Depression
• Joint pain
• Heavier than normal menstrual periods

Those are the typical problems that can affect those with hyperthyroidism and the most common symptoms. However, that’s not all. You can also exhibit a number of nervous system issues. The symptoms of hyperthyroidism that involve the nervous system include:

• Memory loss
• Hearing loss
• Peripheral nerve damage
• Lack of coordination
• Dementia
• Reduced sensation

These are real problems and not just figments of your imagination. The issue with hypothyroidism symptoms is the fact they develop over time and can take quite a while to manifest. This means over the course of months, or even years, you could be suffering from these symptoms and never know what’s causing it. Your family might think you’re losing your mind because you can’t remember anything anymore, or you might feel so incredibly tired no matter how much sleep you get. And those last fifteen pounds you’ve been trying to lose since forever and won’t budge? That could be due to your thyroid, as well.

Hypothyroidism and Hypothyroidism Nervous System Problems

The symptoms affecting the nervous system are typically found in extreme cases of thyroid dysfunction. While this is no fun at all and can lead to feelings of total frustration, at least with a diagnosis of hypothyroidism you have an answer and can start treatment to help alleviate the worst of the symptoms.

There is no cure for hypothyroidism – once the thyroid stops functioning properly, there really is no way to fix that other than by adding either synthetic or natural hormones to your system. This means you’ll have to take medication for the rest of your life. It will take some time to get the dosage just right, so your doctor will probably have you come back at regular intervals – usually about every six weeks or so – for blood tests to gauge the levels of thyroid hormones in your bloodstream.

It’s also very important that you document your symptoms and any change, either for the better or for worse. This is another way your physician can evaluate how you’re progressing, and help him decide if adjustments are necessary to the dosage.

Eventually, you will experience an improvement in your condition. You’ll be able to remember where you put your keys, have more energy, recover your coordination and generally feel like a new person. Hypothyroidism can affect your nervous system, but with the proper treatment those hypothyroidism nervous system symptoms will be relieved, as well.

Hypothyroidism, One Disease, Many Ways To Get There

Although the majority of hypothyroid conditions affect females, and although the biggest group affected are those over fifty, the New York University Langone Medical Center reports that not only is thyroid cancer on the rise, the patients they are seeing are much younger. They estimate 21% of the women who have undergone thyroid surgery for cancer are under the age of 35. These are scary statistics, but the good news is with early diagnosis and treatment, the recovery rate is 99%. But, now you have to deal with hypothyroidism.

Hypothyroidism – Where Do You Go From Here?

After the thyroid has been removed, patients are now in the unenviable position of managing hypothyroidism. Since the thyroid is responsible for the metabolism of the body at a cellular level, the lack of the hormones the thyroid produces needs to be replaced. This means people who have had their thyroid removed or are suffering from a decline in its function will have to be on medication for the rest of their life or suffer from all sorts of hypothyroidism symptoms.

There is some debate about the best replacement therapy for these patients. A synthetic form of the thyroid hormone known as Synthroid has been the medication of choice for three decades. Prior to the development of Synthroid, a natural hormone was derived from desiccated animal thyroids, namely porcine thyroids because they are most like the human organ. The problem with the natural approach is it was difficult to regulate the dosage of desiccated thyroids.

However, in recent years it has been discovered Synthroid has posed the same problems. Additionally, patients who have not done well on the synthetic version often find much better results on the natural form of replacement hormone. Yet, Synthroid or its generic equivalent, levothyroxine, is still the first choice of physicians. Many claim this has more to do with an aggressive marketing campaign by the manufacturers of the synthetic version than with the best option for patient care.

The Next Step For Hypothyroid Patients

Although there is no cure for a removed thyroid gland or for a thyroid gland which is not performing normally, some people have found by changing the diet and adding supplements the dosage required of hormone replacement therapy can be reduced. They also find they feel better, with more energy and better control of the symptoms of hypothyroidism. While hypothyroidism is seldom life-threatening when treated, the symptoms of fatigue, constipation, weight gain, intolerance to cold and muscle pain can severely impact the activities of daily living. Getting these symptoms under some kind of control can make a big difference in the quality of life.

Keeping An Open Mind With Hypothyroidism

As with most medical conditions, there is no one simple answer. Most people will need to work closely with their physician to find the right balance of diet, dosage and supplements to support proper thyroid function. This can be tricky, especially if your health care provider is convinced all it takes is a pill to make everything better. In this case, you might want to find a doctor who has a more open vision, especially if taking a pill isn’t making you feel better.

The bottom line is, your health is your responsibility. Make sure you are as educated as you can be about your condition and the treatment options available. Research the drugs you are prescribed, and keep track of how you are progressing. A health journal is an excellent idea, and will allow you to track changes as you make them and your reaction to those changes. If you aren’t happy with the suggestions or the treatments prescribed by your doctor, find a physician willing to work with you as a partner in your health care.

Remember, this is your body. You know it better than anyone else.

Thyroid Shocker! Exclusive Interview! Abused or Abuser? You Decide!

Reclusive and elusive, Mr. Thyroid has evaded interviews and questions from the general public for years. In an exclusive interview, our health and entertainment correspondent, Ms. Vitality, has finally caught up to Mr. Thyroid and he agreed to speak with her. Her deep and thoughtful questions have finally exposed the true Mr. Thyroid we never knew existed. Exposing lies, secrets and rumors, Mr. Thyroid is open and honest about the reputation he’s been labeled with as the most difficult gland to work with in the body, and how he’s not the only one with skeletons in his closet. Shocking information has come to light that the world has never seen! Abuser or abused victim of a greedy and manipulative public? Read the interview, and YOU decide!

Ms. Vitality: First of all, Mr. Thyroid, thanks for agreeing to meet with me. You’ve stayed very private for a long time, what’s the reason for the hermit-like behavior and why are you coming out now?

Mr. Thyroid: Look, I’ve been doing my job for years, okay? Never asking for much in return, but I’m really sick and tired of the pancreas getting all the press and getting all the attention. The pancreas wouldn’t have a career at all if it wasn’t for me. As a matter of fact, if it wasn’t for me the whole body would shut down, so it’s about time the filthy lies being spread about me were exposed for what they really are – total fabrications.

Ms. V.: That’s pretty harsh, Mr. Thyroid. What is your grudge against the pancreas?

Mr. Thyroid: Well, I don’t have a grudge exactly, but I’m tired of being accused of extreme behavior. I’m either labeled as too active or too lazy, when in fact I work hard to keep everything on an even keel. Anybody would have problems when they’re bombarded with bad diet, no exercise and obesity. Look at the pancreas – it has many of the same problems as I do, yet it’s the one always in the news.

Ms. V.: That might be because you’ve kept to yourself, Mr. Thyroid. The public has considered you as a mystery. What exactly is your function?

Mr. Thyroid: Are you kidding me? The public has no idea how important my job is. I’m the one in charge of metabolism, making sure all the enzymes are doing what they’re supposed to be doing, I regulate body temperature, I help the cells in the body use oxygen. I’m responsible for some of the most technical metabolisms of the body, and that’s a big job – can you imagine the chaos that would ensue if I just say screw this and took the day off?

Ms. V.: But sometimes you do exactly that, Mr. Thyroid.

Mr. Thyroid: Hey, everyone deserves some time off. What can I say? I get tired, and sometimes I don’t get paid or I’m not provided the supplies I need to do my job, and who wants to work under those conditions? If I don’t get my iodine, or if the T4 amino acid is in short supply, I got nothing to work with. My only option is to reduce my energy. Not my fault, that’s just the way it works around here. After awhile, I need help. That’s difficult to admit, but damn! Just give me what I need to work and I work.

Ms. V.: You’re often accused of being the reason behind many cases of obesity.

Mr. Thyroid: I am! And it’s unfair. It’s not all my fault. Like I said, I work as part of a team. Okay, I’ll admit sometimes I might be a contributing factor, but I think it’s totally unfair to blame me for the fact some people can’t fit in their jeans anymore. It’s a vicious cycle – and sometimes, other substances in the body are resistance to my efforts. Like leptin, for instance. Kissing cousins to insulin resistance, leptin is supposed to regulate the satisfaction factor in overeating. What people need to realize is it’s all connected, and nobody has the complete answer. Not even me.

Ms. V.: And what about the accusations of hyperactivity?

Mr. Thyroid: Not my fault, either. I have to function with what I’ve got. Sometimes I’m out of control and I make too much product, but you have to realize I depend on other parts of the body to pull their own weight. When you work as part of a team, you have to fit in as well as you can. When the other systems of the body don’t do their job properly, how can you expect me to do mine? This is what I mean about getting a bad rap. I’m the one targeted as the problem, when it’s the body’s own immune system gumming up the works.

Ms. V.: When you don’t work, a number of the systems of the body don’t work right, either. What do you have to say to that? You have quite a reputation for being difficult to work with.

Mr. Thyroid: It’s a team effort, for crying out loud. I’m not a monster. I’m just an extraordinary gland trying to do my job. Of course if I’m not working other systems suffer, I guess I can take the rap for that. But really, there are options if I’m not feeling up to snuff. Medicine, diet and exercise really helps out. I’m really not that hard to get along with.

Ms. V.: It’s said your reclusiveness makes the effects of your – shall we say malfunctions? – more difficult to pinpoint, and many people suffer for years before realizing you’re not holding up your end of the bargain. Your response?

Mr. Thyroid: That’s part of the reason I’ve come out of the closet. I can’t do it all by myself, you know, and it’s unfair to expect that from me. People have to monitor their own problems, and if they suspect there’s an issue, get their doctor to do a blood test. You know, I don’t mean to be “reclusive”, it’s just that I have a job to do and I do it. Often for years and years without any notice. People only notice me when I’m not working right. You have to understand how frustrating that is for me, and it happens all the time! You would be amazed at how many thyroids show up at the support meetings and are just plain tuckered out. Most of them reside in middle-aged women, and think about it – after all the hormonal fluctuations of menstruation and pregnancy, it’s no wonder we poor thyroids are tired!

Ms. V.: Do you have any other words for our readers out there?

Mr. Thyroid: As a matter of fact, I do. Don’t underestimate what I do just because I look like a butterfly and I’m quiet. I have a big job to do and I do it without complaint, but for the love of heaven, don’t be blaming me for all your problems. If you think I’m not doing what I’m supposed to do, then go to a doctor and let him figure it out. I am not the reason you can’t fit in your jeans, at least not most of the time.

Ms. V.: Thanks for giving us your point of view, Mr. Thyroid.

Mr. Thyroid: Thanks for letting me clear up some of this information, Ms. Vitality. Now, I have to get back to work, if you’ll excuse me. Being a thyroid, I have an important job to do.

“What do my thyroid test results mean?”

This is a question often asked by many thyroid patients. We know that these blood tests are a measure of thyroid hormone production and that they provide a diagnosis of your thyroid function
Have you ever had your doctor diagnose you with hypothyroidism and then show you the test results saying your TSH levels are way above where they should be so you have hypothyroidism an underactive thyroid? Now you are slightly confused because above is under and under is above. The next thing you know the doctor is telling you about this t4 and t3 with numbers associated to those as well only this time there’s something in the thyroid test results where under is underactive. This can become confusing at a time when you are being told that you have a thyroid disorder. Hopefully the following will help you to understand how these thyroid test results measure thyroid hormone levels and what the diagnosis means.

Thyroid Test Results – What is TSH?

TSH is a thyroid stimulating hormone that is secreted out of the pituitary gland. TSH stimulates or signals the thyroid gland to release t4 and t3 hormone. When your thyroid isn’t releasing enough t4 and t3 the pituitary gland releases higher levels of TSH as an effort to get the thyroid gland to produce more t4 and t3. This is why your doctor will diagnose you with hypothyroidism when your TSH levels are higher than normal.

The pituitary works in reverse where hyperthyroidism or an over active thyroid is present. Hyperthyroidism is when the thyroid gland is releasing too much t4 and t3. When that happens the pituitary gland releases less TSH in effort to slow down the thyroid glands production of t4 and t3.

Thyroid Blood Test Results

Now let’s take a look at thyroid tests, thyroid test results and how they apply to hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism

The TSH thyroid test normal range is 0.5 – 5.5

Total t4 thyroid test normal range is   4.5 – 12.5

Free t4 thyroid test normal range is     0.7 – 2.0

Total t3 thyroid test normal range is    80 – 220

Free t3 thyroid test normal range is     2.3 – 4.2

*The differences between total t3 and total t4 and free t3 and free t4 is that things like proteins and medications can alter total t3 and total t4 hormone levels giving them inconsistent unreliable totals while free t3 and free t4 hormone levels are not altered by these things so they give more accurate thyroid test results.

With this in mind we can now look at how these test results help your physician diagnose your thyroid disease.

If your:

Thyroid test results – Pituitary gland Issue:

Total t4 = below normal – less than 4.5 and TSH = below normal less than 0.5 – There could be an issue with your pituitary.

Thyroid test results – Hyperthyroidism Issue:

TSH = below normal less than 0.5 – You may have hyperthyroidism – an overactive thyroid condition

Thyroid test results – Hypothyroidism Issue:

TSH = above normal more than 5.5 – You may have hypothyroidism – an underactive thyroid condition

Total t4 = below normal – less than 4.5 and TSH = above normal more than 5.5 – This indicates hypothyroidism – an underactive thyroid condition.

Free t4 = below normal – less than 0.7 – This indicates hypothyroidism – an underactive thyroid condition

Total t3 = below normal – less than 80 – This indicates hypothyroidism – an underactive thyroid condition

Free t3 = below normal – less than 2.3 – This indicates hypothyroidism – an underactive thyroid condition

*A lump or swelling in the front of your neck could indicate thyroid cancer and your doctor should send you for an ultrasound of your thyroid and other thyroid cancer tests available.

Hopefully this post on thyroid test results will better help thyroid patients understand what the doctors are talking about when they discuss your thyroid test results with you from this point forward.