Mark's Blog

hi Sandy *** waving from Whitby ***
don't know any good drs for you
having problems here too
Kathy
Subject: [hypothyroidism] Hypothyroid in Toronto...any Canucks out
there?

Thanks for the responses from the Canadians. The weather has finally
warmed up and I am weaning myself off my electric blankie (LOL). Went
to my Therapist yesterday and he thinks my dosage should be upped as
I am not sleeping very well and am aching all over..now I just have
to convince my md that I should be upped..very frustrating!!.
Sandy

how about taking your vitamin at lunch? or mid afternoon?
or try an iron free version?
you can buy liquid herbal iron and try taking that with dinner, and take
an iron free multi in the morning?
some vitamins do keep you awake, so that is definitely a possibility.
Kathy

Hi guys/gals,
It's 2 a.m and I can not go to sleep. At first I thought this was the
time change but then it's really gone on for about 2 weeks now. I
recently changed my vitamin over but I don't think that's it.
Please be aware that I take mine at night. The reasoning was becuase
my iron in my multi was blocking my absorption of my Levoxyl and I
always take a multi in the a.m.
Anyone else out there ever experience this? What did you do about it(
other than alcohol or other substances- legal or otherwise)? Tehehe
I'm goin to call my doc tomorrow and see if he thinks I should go
back to taking it in the a.m. OR should we adjust my dosage.
Thoughts anyone??
Renee P.

Hi Sandy,
I'm a Canuck out in Victoria, BC. I've only been diagnosed as
having hypothyroidism for about 6-7 weeks now and on a small dose of
Synthroid (.05 mg). My original TSH level was 10.0 and I think I
must be one of the lucky ones because after 6 wks on Synthroid my
level is 1.6.
I've read in the archives here that it can take some people months
and months to find their correct dose. There can be a fair bit of
finetuning I think.
My doctor sounds pretty much like yours but is willing to do testing
about every 6 weeks. I found Mary Shomon's book "Living with
Hypothyroidism: Your Doctor Doesn't Tell You ... That You Need to
Know" to be quite informative and her website
(http://thyroid.about.com/index.htm?terms=thyroid) to be good too.
Others here will answer as well I suspect.
Cath

Hi all,
I was just diagnosed 3 weeks ago and have done tons of reading. My
tsh level was 6.98 but I have been told they don't do T3 or T4 tests
in canada because it is too expensive?? Sounds odd to me...does
anyone have info of a good doc in Toronto or are that I can go to as
my doc is the "here's what you have, here's the prescription...see
you again in 3 months type" No Info, no suggestions..Nothing!. Thank
god for the Internet!. I am presently on Levoroxine 1 grain..does
that sound right?
Sandy

Melanie, it's such a relief to hear those stories :)

Hi everyone,
I haven't written for awhile so I just wanted to give
everyone an update. I went to a new doctor (An
Allergist who specializes in Environmental Medicine).
I live in St. Louis and he was recommended at the Top
Docs website. First of all, he did all of the proper
testing which the other doctors would not do. I can't
remember the names but basically he determined that my
problem was not my T4 (as the last 3 doctors including
an endocrinologist had told me) but my T3 levels were
low. He is giving me 1 grain of Armour a day. He
also is treating me for Candidas (overgrowth of yeast)
which he says could be causing a lot of my problems
(diffuculty with concentrating, weight gain, tiredness
and memory problems). I have to take an Anti-Fungal
medicine for 6 months to "Kill the Bug" as he put it.
The bad part is I have to take 2 pills, 4 times a day.
I'm also doing a 24 hour urine specimen collection
for Magnesium. He says a lot of people are Magnesium
deficient because their body does not absorb properly
and this also can cause a lot of the symptoms I have
been complaining about. I asked him if I could just
start taking the Magnesium and he said the testing is
better because they can determine how much I need if
any at all. After I collect the 24 hour sample, I
take it in and they give me two shots of Magnesium in
my rear, again I do another 24 hour urine sample to
see what my body absorbed. This doctor's philosophy
is "Treat the illness, not the symptoms". He believes
too many doctors just give their patients a pill to
mask the symptoms instead of looking at the symptoms
as a warning sign and treating the illness that causes
the symptoms. He seems to be very knowledgeable and
conducts a lot of lectures across the country. It's
costing me a lot more to see him because he is an out
of network doctor in my insurance plan but I think it
will be worth it. Thanks for listening.
Melanie

Hello:
I got your email. I am a 23 year old woman who is
dealing with a thyroid problem and am also realizing
my doctor hasn't been doing as much as she could to
help me. I found a website that had a lot of good
materials online, as well as books, etc and a monthly
subsription to a thyroid magazine.
The web address is http://www.thyroid-info.com. I
believe there was a link from amazon.com at one time
as well. I can't think of the address right now. I
hope this helps.
Also......I have been struggling with gaining weight
as well. I exercise every other day and eat well. I
am still gaining weight.
I have ordered the Goddess Diet and "Livng well with
Hypothyroidism"...But I am incredibly worried. I am
23 years old an unable to enjoy life like an average
23 year old. I get tired and cranky easy, and my body
aches for days after I am done exercising.
--- "Patrick, Deborah and John De Mesa"

Renee,

Hello Everyone,
I have been lurking for a week or so and want to send in my introduction
and am now getting brave enough to begin asking questions and telling a
little about my history. I am 45 years old, have been on thyroid
medication for several years in my youth and then again for the last
couple of years. Sad to say that for most of my life I have thought that
the doctors at least knew what they were doing even if they made
occasional mistakes.
The last 8 years have been really bad for me as we tried to get pregnant
again and then finally decided to go to a fertility specialist and he
said, wow your thyroid numbers are really out you need to see your
regular doctor. My tsh was in the 4000's. The highest my doctor and the
endocrinologist he consulted with had ever seen even though my t3, t4
and t7 were in low normal range. So they put me on synthroid. I have a
multi-globular goiter which is why I went on thyroid medication when I
was 12 for about 6 years then the doctor took me off and said I was fine.
I guess my biggest problem right now is how to get educated. Until a
friend also went on thyroid medication and her doctor was also
prescribing other things like B vitamins to help with her symptoms did I
begin to realize that I might not just have to live with the way I feel.
The bone deep weariness, the body aches, not getting pregnant, not
being able to loose weight. My first doctor told my mother that I had a
two-fold problem. Of course the goiter was of concern but they were
mostly concerned with burning out my pituitary gland. The doctor also
said that I had what he called a starvation liver and that there was
nothing to be done about it. He said that my liver was very efficient
about producing the hormones that stored fat and did not produce hardly
any of the hormones to release fat. This was his reason for my being
massively hypoglycemic. He put me on a high protein diet. Over the years
I have been up and down the weight scales and now matter what diet
program I went on if I stayed at 500 cal a day or less I lost weight
but who can live for their entire life on less than 500 cal? I just gave
up about 8 years ago and said what ever I end up at but now I am finding
out there might be some natural or homeopathic ways to help me get
healthier. Now this is not to say that I am very careful about what I
cook, etc. This is slowly changing in our household, more fruits and
vegetables, more juicing, etc. I hope it is ok to be on this list to
gain information and support. Right now, I don't know enough to give
anyone advice back.
So now I am on a quest for knowledge. So my question, where do so many
of you get your information from? I am looking on the net but wow,
millions of topics, many from either the allopathic world or from
companies selling natural remedies. To be honest their claims don't seem
any more realistic than the allopathic claims. Is there a basic health
book that you all use that discusses all alternatives, allopathic -
herbal - homeopathic?
Just very confused and somewhat angry -- it is probably too late for me
to have more children and now I learn it could have been helped but I
might still have a chance if I can get my body working very quickly. Of
course it might just be too late.
I have the Prescription for Natural Healing book (which I use a lot) and
a couple of other books that have not proved to be very easy to use. One
is the Green Pharmacy and the other is Back to Eden. These books talk
from the perspective that I have herbs and know how to make tinctures
etc. They are not very practical right now.
Sorry this is so long.
Blessings,
Deborah

I think you posted to the wrong list.

Is this spam?
God I hate spam!!!!!!!!!!!!
Renee P.

Like most people, I've had some trouble with credit in the past. For
a long time I haven't been able to find a company that would give me
a credit card at all. I found this site and I just had to share it
with the rest of the group. It has all sorts of credit cards, some
are guaranteed to be approved no matter what your credit history is
like. Also, they have gold and platinum cards and offer free services
for credit reports. You got to see this site.
http://creditcardapplicationforbadcredit.com

Can anyone tell me if there is anything available on the subject in
Australia.
Or if anyone on this suite is based in Australia or has a network in
australia can you tell me if there are any docotr etc in Canberra
that I can contact
Thanks for your help
slowbrow2000@...

Hi all,
I got Mary Shomon's newsletter today. She's linked to an interesting article on doctors and shame as a possible reason why it's so difficult to get your doctor to try something new or different in your medical treatment for hypothyroidism. It's something you might be interested in reading if you seem to stuggle with your doctor hearing you or trying new things. The link is to the full text version of an editorial in "Quality and Safety in Health Care." http://qhc.bmjjournals.com/cgi/content/full/11/1/2
I know I've tended to see my doctors in semi-omnipotent terms. But, maybe if I were to see them as a little more human, I could approach them with more reassurance to reduce the potential for shame when I want them to consider wandering from the "old tried and true" path of current medical treatment.
Linda in LA

"The fact that an opinion has been widely held is no evidence whatever that it is not utterly absurd."
Bertrand Russell (1872 - 1970)

ive been recently reading the posts on guggle a lot lately and i was curious
where can i find this? and how much does it cost? i feel so cold all the
time that i would love to give it a whirl. also anyone find any luck on
meca? i bought some the other day ago and was gonna give that a try. Thanks
everyone! hope
ps if there was a post can you forward it to me? if you dont want to repost
- my email addy is ahoy7@... Thanks :)

Melanie,
After trying many, many products the only thing I have found that has
really worked is Newbust. It is a hormone balancing formula and you
can read all about it at http://www.newbust.com/ . This product will
work for PMS, but not for PMDD. Are you sure you don't have PMDD?
Celeste

Sheryal,
I have Hashimoto's and having been taking medication for it for over
20 years. AFAIK I have not had symptoms of any other autoimmune
disease. I'm very sorry to hear that you have been having so many
health issues. I hope your surgery goes as well as it possibly can.
Much aloha,
Celeste

Ann,
I can't imagine why...I'll post it to the group as soon as I locate
the web address.
Rennie

Well, it's been about 3 weeks now since I first started taking
Guggul. I'm still experiencing the good effects that I've mentioned
previously . . . plus a few more things. First of all, my acne has
cleared up noticeably. This is especially unusual considering that I
ovulated about a week ago and so my acne should be really blooming.
Secondly, I've had to give up putting bran into my breakfast cereal.
I had previously been accustomed to being constipated one or two days
each week and I thought that was as good as it would ever get. I was
wrong. I don't need to be constipated any days of the week. And I
don't need the discomfort that the bran causes. So I think Linda has
a lot of good things to look forward to on Guggul and I look forward
to her reports.
Celeste

Rennie , thank you. I will send an email to your address.
Ann

exercise"
for 2 years. Have been taking a combination of Armour and cytomel.<<
Same here...in 2000, my "banner year" it seems! Glucophage didn't
agree with me, so I was changed to Amaryl and that dose gradually
increased up to 4 mg. Then Actos was added, then Actos was changed to
Avandia due to side effects, then to Prandin, which seems to agree
with me.
I had been treated with Armour, finally up to 4 grains, for years.
Then in 2000 the doc treating my merc tox switched me to
sustained-release T3 for Wilson's Syndrome. I felt good while on it,
but I began to see a connection between my BGs bumping up 100 points
consistently and normalizing when I ramped off the T3. Then BGs rose
again when I resumed, etc. Followed the same pattern 3 or 4 times.
All knowledgeable folks say there is no connection, but I'm not
convinced. That was when I decided to get off T3 and see an endo,
after so many years of avoiding one. There, again, I was assured
there would be no connection. My BGs went from excellent control for
2 years to way out of control with same basic food intake in short
time after using the SR-T3. Can you or anyone else relate t

little
mercury. But a 6 hour urine collection preceded by DMPS(?) IV now
shows mercury off the chart. Am awaiting another hair analysis....<<
My hair and blood analyses in 1995 and 1998 were all high merc also
with deranged minerals, etc., in every direction but normal, which
I've learned is typical merc tox. The Great Smokies Lab reports
finally convinced my dentist to remove my amalgams, his own
way...another dumb move. He did get all the work covered 100% by
insurance, though. My doctor said just get them out, whatever way you
have to do it.
While my fillings were being removed in summer `99 I experienced
severe insomnia and then was diagnosed with severe sleep apnea, with
blood oxygen at some points dropping to 71% (60% is life threatening;
98% is expected). I have slept with a CPAP machine nightly since
then. I'm convinced this was from mercury in my brain during the
removal. I sleep very deeply with this machine.
My mercury toxicity first got treated in 2000 after the DMPS
challenge, which showed 59 ug (ref 0-3 ug), which is the highest this
doctor had ever treated, so he insisted on going very slowly. I
rejected DMPS-IVs due to side effects, and oral DMSA was covered by
insurance (first Rx I bought--$2,000). I'm getting my information
together now to do a better job at detox once school lets out. I
can't handle it all while I'm working. I plan to do a new hair
analysis before I embark on another merc

method and response?<<
Ann, I'm going to break this into several replies, since one would be
too long to fit.
I was detoxing but I took a (stupid) break last fall and now I can see
that it was a dumb move, since I have lots of neurological symptoms
all the time. I think I mobilized the mercury but redeposited it,
probably in my brain.
I've had DMPS-IV challenge and in pelvic block injections, DMSA for
many months along with supplements: Glucobalance, which has lots of B
vitamins and other stuff, alpha-lipoic acid, Chitosan which binds
bowel fats for excretion, PCA Spray since I can't tolerate chlorella
or selenium, and other stuff I'd have to look up. I used cilantro for
a while last summer, too. This merc detox is tricky....need a chem
degree to just follow it!

I'm presently taking one Cod Liver Oil capsule daily. Haven't noticed much of a difference, but maybe I need to increase the dose. What brand are you taking?

Wendy

Hi!
I wanted to write about a couple of things I've been trying that seem to be producing a good effect. First, I started the tyrosine and guggulbiotic supplements that Celeste recommended. I must say, I DO feel warmer, though it's early and according to what Celeste reports, that evens out in the next week or so. But with the stress I've been under, I've been feeling colder lately more than usual for the dose of T3 I'm on.
The other thing I've added in the last four days is fish oil since reading an abstract of a study done on bipolar individuals. (Two of my children are bipolar so I'm always looking for ways to help them feel better.) Here is the link to the article about fish oil: http://www.mindfully.org/Health/Omega-3-Fatty-Acids.htm
The article states that 3-5 grams of fish oil a day can help with mild depression. So far, I've found that to be true since the stress of my family situation has made me feel depressed in general. Participants in the study were taking 9 grams of fish oils per day but I've found I get a good effect from 4 grams. Yes, that's nine capsules a day of the brand I use! But, I make sure to take them right after a meal on a full stomach so I don't have fish burps! :0
Of course this has made my skin smoother but mostly, what I'm appreciating about this is that my mood seems so much lighter in a very short period of time! Supposedly, the oil cushions the brain cells and makes them less susceptible to the affects of stress. I'll update everyone next week to let you know if the effect is sustainable.
To our good health!
Linda in LA

"The fact that an opinion has been widely held is no evidence whatever that it is not utterly absurd."
Bertrand Russell (1872 - 1970)

many have had success taking a good multivitamin with extra magnesium and
calcium
Karen

Does anyone have any advice for PMS? I'm so tired and
crabby know one wants to be around me and I'm ready to
kill anyone that gets in my way! Not literally.
Thanks,
Melanie

Rennie, Thank you SO much for taking time to fill us in! I, too, am dealing
with those very things but am not so far along in
getting help.
Are you detoxing from the mercury?
If so, what is your method and response? Myself, I feel generally pretty
"crappy" and haven't yet been tested for adrenal function.
However, in 1995-96, I was treated for adrenal exhaustion. Was a long slow
process.
I had the amalgams removed in 1995. A 1997 hair analysis showed very little
mercury. But a 6 hour urine collection preceded by
DMPS(?) IV now shows mercury off the chart. Am awaiting another hair
analysis....
In Nov I started on Glucophage for diabetes after trying "diet and exercise" for
2 years.
Have been taking a combination of Armour and cytomel.
Congratulations on finding a clinic that starts out "pretty good!"
Thank you for any info you can share!
Ann

While I haven't posted any details to the group since last summer, I
wanted to share this latest "quest for health" experience with the
group. Feedback and comments are welcome. Thanks in advance.
I finally made the agonizing decision to see an endocrinologist, and a
few weeks ago I had my first appt. with one of their nurse
practitioners. While I was waiting to be seen, I picked up a
reprinted newsletter on thyroid and was impressed to see mention of
the basal temp and how to properly take it for use as a diagnostic
tool. The Broda Barnes Foundation was mentioned in it by name. I was
pleased that this place might actually be open minded about treatment
and options.
After the history taking and physical exam, the NP ordered lab work:
a.m. cortisol, DHEA-S, HGB A1C, homocysteine, microalbumin, T3 total,
T3 uptake, T4 total (I was disappointed that free T3 and 4 were not
even on their pre-printed lab form), TSH, testosterone total and free,
and thyroid peroxidase antibodies.
I won't get the actual lab result figures until I meet the doctor in
another month, but I did get a note from the nurse practitioner with
information on low-dose hydrocortisone therapy and a note to call her
after I'd read it. She told me I was only low on the cortisol and
thyroid, the other results were OK. On my last lab tests for
internist's physical two weeks prior my T3 total was 95 (60-181
ng/dL), T4 free was 0.9 (0.8-1.8 ng/dL) and TSH was 2.68 (0.35 5.5)
after I had been totally off thyroid meds for a month. Probably
didn't change much in two weeks. (I had 3/4 left thyroid lobe
removed in 1996. Goiter w/nodule were crushing my larynx each time I
swallowed.)
The NP says they want me to start hydrocortisone for a while before
they supplement with thyroid because I won't feel better on the
thyroid until my adrenal insufficiency is boosted first. She seemed
to be aware that mercury toxic folks (like me) take a long time to
respond to low dose hydrocortisone therapy and was willing to take
more time with it before suspending its use (I've been this route
before), if I were willing to adhere to the protocols for ramping the
dosage (I am).
I asked what thyroid meds they prefer to use and they run the gamut...
including Armour.... whatever the patient feels most comfortable with.
She said many of their patients use strictly Armour. What a relief!!
My question for you folks: Also in the lab work, my A1C was too high
(I'm diabetic), which has been the case since I switched Armour
thyroid meds to sustained-release T3 almost 2 years ago. Has anyone
had a similar experience with blood glucose rising while on compounded
SR-T3? It is not supposed to impact blood glucose, but I believe it
did and checked myself several times with same result: dropped quite
a bit while off T3, all other things being equal.
I will report back to the group about all this when I have my first
meet with the doctor on 4/23. In the meantime, thanks for listening
and for feedback, particularly questions I should

I'm new to the group and was wondering if anyone has been diagnosed
with Hashimoto's disease and if so, what auto-immune disorders (if
any) they're experiencing.
I'm a 32 year old woman...was diagnosed about 1 year ago and since
that time, have developed Vitiligo, Eczema, Alopecia Areata (that one
was fun!), Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and currently diagnosed with
Pigmented Villinodular Synovitis (PVS)...am having surgery in 2 weeks
for that... I feel like every time one problem is cured, another pops
up. I'm just curious as to whether or not anyone else in this group
has had similar problems and didn't see a group specific for
Hashimoto's.
Thanks
Sheryal

Hi Jenny,

I'm quickly trying to
learn all I can about disease/disorder (which is it?). Does anyone
know of any good sites I can visit for more information?

Here are the three I recommend:
www.thyroid.about.com
www.wilsonsthyroidsyndrome.com
http://home.usaa.net/~wurmstein/#QUEST
I also have

another question: I've been obese my whole life. Now that I've begun
taking 100mcg of synthroid, will this help me drop a few pounds?

IMO, it is very important for each person w/ hypothyroidism to find the right medicine for them in the right amounts and take it in the right way at the right time. Synthroid might be the medicine for you and it may help you lose weight. Each person is different. I didn't find synthroid helped me. I needed a different medicine but once I found it, started Weight Watchers, and increased my daily exercise, I have been able to lose about ten pounds. Other people here have been able to lose weight while taking synthroid. Celeste, in particular has been able to get good results with it and some other interesting things she's doing; I'll let her tell you about them.
If you don't get immediate results, hang in there. Try to experiment with yourself, your eating, your exercise, and don't be afraid to ask your doc to tweak your dosage or change your meds until you find what works for you.
Good luck and good health!
Linda in LA

"The fact that an opinion has been widely held is no evidence whatever that it is not utterly absurd."
Bertrand Russell (1872 - 1970)

In a message dated 04/07/2002 4:00:30 AM Pacific Daylight Time, sal@... writes:

I have many hypo symptoms including fatigue, weight gain, eye problems,
muscle & joint pain, sore throat, frequent colds & infections, depression
etc etc etc! LOL! My thyroid tests have in the past come back in the
"normal" range and the only diagnosis I have been able to obtain from my GP
is that of depression. (Typical!)

Sally,
Whenever I hear of someone with low thyroid symptoms yet consistently normal TSH tests, I tell them to seriously consider Wilson's Thyroid Syndrome and finding a doctor who will prescribe timed-release T3. I went 30 years without medicine for hypothyroidism because of the tyranny of the TSH test! Mine tests always came back normal yet I continued to get worse and worse. Then, a new doc I consulted recently told me about Wilson's treatment, developed about ten years ago. The treatment, incredibly simple, has given me my life back and I am now getting well and feeling better for the first time since I was a young adult. The website has information kits you can buy to share with your doctor about the syndrome, lists of treating docs, and instructions how to take your temperature, etc. Here's the link: www.wilsonsthyroidsyndrome.com
To your good health,
Linda in LA

"The fact that an opinion has been widely held is no evidence whatever that it is not utterly absurd."
Bertrand Russell (1872 - 1970)

Hi
I have many hypo symptoms including fatigue, weight gain, eye problems,
muscle & joint pain, sore throat, frequent colds & infections, depression
etc etc etc! LOL! My thyroid tests have in the past come back in the
"normal" range and the only diagnosis I have been able to obtain from my GP
is that of depression. (Typical!)
I have had some private tests done for Thyroid and Adrenals and the results
are as follows. (If someone has any idea what they mean I would be very
grateful)
Thyroid panel

Greetings to you in Dubai. Your wife can get well but sometimes it is not
easy to find a doctor who is helpful. It helps to become well informed.
Check out www.thyroid.about.com and www.brodabarnes.org. Let us know what
treatment is like in Dubai!
Gracia

Hey everyone. I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism last Friday. The
result of my TSH test was a score(?) of 13. I'm quickly trying to
learn all I can about disease/disorder (which is it?). Does anyone
know of any good sites I can visit for more information? I also have
another question: I've been obese my whole life. Now that I've begun
taking 100mcg of synthroid, will this help me drop a few pounds? I've
been reading all your posts and there's just so much to learn... it's
sort of overwhelming. I'd appreciate any help anyone has to offer.
Jenny

Hi all,
I found this group and thought to share with u all what has been
diagnosed for my wife, she has been blood tested and found 6.8 of
TSH level, she has been feeling so weak and fatigued also headaches
I wonder if any1 can help here and comment on this, we are going to
see an endocrinologist tomorrow and that's hopefully for a good cure.
Thanks and regards to all.
zahid mahmood

Linda,
I am glad you brought that article up because it is so true...I went to
not one, not two, not even three docs, I was evaluated by over 6 docs and
had given up really if it had not been for my Mom I would not have found a
top doc and slowly regaining my life again! I had mysterious infections
that would just show up in my blood streams, wierd yet horrible aches and
pains in my neck and my feet, not the usual lower back pain that an
overweight person experiences, it never was the bottom of my foot it was
the top. None of these issues never got addressed. They just worked
around them and got me out the door as quickly as possible. If we don't
fight for ourselves no one else will and the HORRIBLE IRONY is, is that if
you are suffering from subtle or severe hypothyroidism you won't even have
the energy to fight them so if you do have the energy then by all means do
what you have to do to get the proper treatment. I didn't get angry at
our health care system until I was on the other side (meaning receiving
proper medication.) Ok I said my peace.
Thanks,
Karen T.
=====

Hi Wendy,
I just got my weekly newsletter from Mary Shomon on
Thyroid.About.com. Her lead article is about knowing when to get a
second opinion. The article is an interview w/ the Dr.s Shames and
how they feel hypothyroidism is overlooked as an underlying cause of
or contributor to depression. Because of the wide variety of
symptoms, the Shames think a lot of docs assume anyone complaining of
SO many symptoms must just be depressed or hypochondriac, hence they
don't take their patient seriously. The Shames offer suggestions and
encouragement for people who feel their docs don't really hear them,
rely too much on blood tests, or ignore their other symptoms.
Here's the link to the full test of the article:
http://thyroid.about.com/library/weekly/aa040402a.htm
I hope you're doing well and are getting the proper help and the
proper medicine you need.
Linda in LA

Hi Kathy, welcome to the group. It generally takes about six to
twelve weeks to get your thyroid back to normal if you have the right
dosage of thyroid replacement.
When I was diagonised with Hypothyroidism, my TSH was 246, but I did
not have any symptoms at that point in time in the sense I had no
problem in carrying out my day to activities. But now when I think
about it in retrospect, I realise how fat and swollen my face looked!
I guess I was an exception, because the doctor said that she was
surprised that I was even able to get out of bed.
Normal syptoms are: tiredness, sleepiness, dry brittle
skin/hair/nails, swelling in legs, irregular periods, puffy face,
weight gain, feeling cold etc...
--- In hypothyroidism@y..., "klenhart2000" <LenhartFamily3@m...

Found this on www.about.com
People frequently have different TSH levels from blood test to blood
test. What factors might account for a TSH that is changing? Are there
things you may be doing that are affecting your TSH? Let's take a look
at some of the factors that can cause your TSH to fluctuate.
1. Change in Dosage changing your thyroid medication may change your
TSH.
2. Potency Fluctuations in your medication
3. Lab changes or mix-ups
4. The timing of when you take your pill
5. Starting or stopping a high-fiber diet
6. Starting/stopping calcium or iron supplements
7. Eating too many soy products
8. Eating too many goitrogenic foods, which include Brussels sprouts,
rutabaga, turnips, kohlrabi, radishes, cauliflower, African cassava,
millet, babassu (a palm-tree coconut fruit popular in Brazil and Africa)
cabbage, and kale
9. Change of seasons TSH can rise in the colder months
10. Hormonal fluctuations
11. Pregnancy
12. Certain herbs/Supplements
13. Certain prescription drugs 14. Stress or illness
15. Progression of your thyroid disease
Love,
Reneé and Jerry
rja86@...

Hello list, I received a long advertizement from Brent R. Stucki at the
Nutri-Meds Health Center detailing their development of Porcine thyroid. It
is an ad, but interesting.
Rather than junk up the list with it, if anyone wants to read it, let me
know and I'll forward it to them.
SaraLou
slpedigo@...

Dear Kathy,
I have subtle hypothyroidism so while I may suffer some of the same
symptoms I am sure not all. However I would like to welcome you to our
group, I am relatively new too and have really enjoyed learning from
people who have dealt with hypothyroidism for a lot longer that me and
been through a lot more docs than me.
Sincerely,
Karen T.
=====

Hi my name is Kathy and I have just been diagnosed with Extreme
Hypothyroidism. My level is 68 and I am stuck in a wheelchair. I
don't work and need help and someone to talk to you is going threw
the same thing. Anyone know how long it takes to get your level
back up and see the reverce effects? I was also wondering about
Disability. What systoms does everyone else have and what are your
levels?? Hope to talk to you all soon!! Do you have a scedualed
chat times in here?? Thank you, Kathy

No - I'm talking about "Magonate". It's a Magnesium supplement. The liquid seems to work better than caplets, for me.

Wendy

Chuck Blatchley <cblatchl@...

Wendy,
Could you mean "manganate?" It is form of the trace nutrient manganese
but is toxic in large doses.
Chuck Blatchley
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I found this info. today, and thought I'd pass it on. Some of these
herbs may not mix with Hashimotos, so do cross reference before taking.
Nutrition
Avoid foods that suppress thyroid function, including broccoli,
cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, kale, spinach, turnips,
soybeans, peanuts, linseed, pinenuts, millet, cassava, and mustard
greens.
Avoid refined foods, dairy products, wheat, caffeine, and alcohol.
Essential fatty acids (1,000 to 1,500 mg three times per day) are
necessary for hormone production.
Vitamin C (1,000 mg three to four times per day), vitamin A (10,000 to
25,000 IU per day), B complex [50 to 100 mg/day, augmented with vitamins
B2 (riboflavin, 15 mg), B3 (niacin, 25 to 50 mg), and B6 (pyridoxine, 25
to 50 mg)], selenium (200 mcg per day), iodine (300 mcg per day),
vitamin E (400 IU per day), and zinc (30 mg per day) are necessary for
thyroid hormone production.
L-tyrosine (500 mg two or three times a day) also supports normal
thyroid function. May make high blood pressure worse.
Calcium (1,000 mg per day) and magnesium (200 to 600 mg per day) help
many metabolic processes function normally.
Herbs
Herbs may be used as dried extracts (capsules, powders, teas),
glycerites (glycerine extracts), or tinctures (alcohol extracts). Unless
otherwise indicated, teas should be made with 1 tsp. herb per cup of hot
water. Steep covered 5 to 10 minutes for leaf or flowers, and 10 to 20
minutes for roots. Drink 2 to 4 cups per day.
This combination supports thyroid function: Combine equal parts of the
following herbs for a tea (3 to 4 cups per day) or tincture (20 to 30
drops three times per day). Horsetail (Equisetum arvense), oatstraw
(Avena sativa), alfalfa (Medicago sativa), and gotu kola (Centella
asiatica).
Kelp (Alaria esculenta), bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosis), and Irish
moss (Chondrus crispus) may be taken as foods or in capsule form.
Coleus foreskohlii (1 to 2 ml three times a day) stimulates thyroid
function with an increase in thyroid hormone production. Also, herbs
such as guggul (Commiphora guggul) (25 mg of guggulsterones three times
a day) and hawthorne (Crataegus oxyacantha) (500 mg twice a day) are
taken to counteract high cholesterol, which often accompanies
hypothyroidism
Love,
Reneé and Jerry
rja86@...

www.holisticonline.com
Name: GuggulBiological Name: Commiphora mukulOther Names: Gugulipid,
Mukul myrrh tree, Gugul Lipid, guggal, guggulParts Used: gum resinActive
Compounds:
Ketone fraction that is extracted from the resin contains the most
potent cholesterol lowering components. This is composed of C21 or C27
steroids, with the major components being Z- and E-guggulsterone.
Guggul contains resin, volatile oils, and gum. The extract isolates
ketonic steroid compounds known as guggulsterones. These compounds have
been shown to provide the lipid-lowering actions noted for guggul.
Guggul significantly lowers serum triglycerides and cholesterol as well
as LDL and VLDL cholesterols (the "bad" cholesterols). At the same time,
it raises levels of HDL cholesterol (the "good" cholesterol). Guggul has
also been shown to reduce the stickiness of platelets-another effect
that lowers the risk of coronary artery disease.
History:
Guggul is a highly valued botanical medicine used in Ayurveda, Indian
system of medicine. It is used for rheumatoid arthritis, and lipid
disorders. The classic Ayurveda medical text, the Sushruta samhita,
described in detail the usefulness of this herb for treatment of obesity
and other disorders of fat, including "coating and obstruction of
channels".
Encouraged by the Ayurvedic description of this herb for lowering
cholesterol, scientists have conducted clinical trials to test the
effectiveness of this herb in disorders of lipid metabolism and for
lowering weight. The research resulted in the development of a natural
cholesterol lowering substance that is safer and more effective than
many cholesterol-lowering drugs. Gugulipid was granted approval in India
for marketing as a lipid lowering drug in 1986.
Remedies For:
Key uses:
High cholesterol levels
High triglyceride levels
Guglipid offers considerable benefit in preventing and treating
atherosclerotic vascular disease (Heart disease). It is most effective
in lowering LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.It also raises the level
of good cholesterol (HDL).
Guggul exhibits a cholesterol lowering ability unlike any other natural
substance. In human trials, using gugulipid, the cholesterol levels
dropped 14 to 27 percent in a 4 to 12 week period while the triglyceride
levels dropped from 22 to 30 percent. This guggul has great effect in
preventing heart atherosclerosis, or narrowing of the arteries.
Description:
Guglipid is derived from the mukul myrrh tree, a small thorny tree 4 to
6 feet tall, that is native to Arabia and India. The tree remains
without any foliage for most of the year. It has ash colored bark, and
comes off in rough flakes, exposing the underbark, which also peels off.
The tree exudes a yellowish resin called gum guggul or guggulu, that has
a balsamic odor. This resin is used for medicinal purposes.
Dosage:
Daily recommendations for guggul are typically based on the amount of
guggulsterones in the extract. A common intake of guggulsterones is 25
mg three times per day. Most extracts contain 5-10% guggulsterones. For
a 5 percent guggulsterone extract, this translates to an effective dose
of 500 milligrams three times per day. Many people take the extracts
daily for twelve to twenty-four weeks.
Safety:
Part of the resin from which the medicinal extract is made is toxic and,
hence, the raw resin should not be used for any treatment.
Early studies with the crude oleoresin reported numerous side effects,
including diarrhea, anorexia, abdominal pain, and skin rash. Modern
extracts are more purified, and far fewer side effects (e.g., mild
abdominal discomfort) have been reported with long-term use. Gugglipid,
the standardized extract has better chemical efficacy and is better
tolerated by patients. Animal studies indicate that this material is not
toxic. It is also believed safe to use during pregnancy. (With your
physician's supervision). The extract has not shown any adverse side
effects, nor it has affected the liver function, blood sugar control,
kidney function, or hematological parameters.
Guggul should be used with caution by persons with liver disease and in
cases of inflammatory bowel disease and diarrhea. A physician should be
consulted for any case of elevated cholesterol and/or triglycerides
Love,
Reneé and Jerry
rja86@...

Reneé,
That's only one of hundreds of sites with data on Commiphora Mukul. If
you do a search on it at www.google.com you'll have plenty of reading
for the rest of the day. ;-)
Celeste

Kathy,
Things are pretty stable now. I still have more energy in the
evenings than I used to and am sleeping only 7 hours a night. Last
night I did an experiment. Instead of going to bed at 11 PM and
getting up to my alarm at 6 AM, I went to bed at 10 PM, had no trouble
falling asleep, and woke up a little after 5 AM without any alarm. So
I'm convinced now that my need for sleep has definitely been reduced.
This was an effect I was not expecting and am pretty happy about.
Celeste

Magonate is a magnesium supplement. It comes in liquid, powder, or
pill form.

what is liquid magonate?
have you tried doing a search on google.com?
Kathy

Hi all,
the other day a girl wrote saying that she changed meds and didn't feel
right. I got this from Mary Shomon's newsletter and thought it was
applicable and important esp. to her post.
Levoxyl's Reformulation: What You Need to Know
Fast-Dissolving Reformulation Causing Problems For Some Patients
"I just called and complained to them about it cause I don't care for it
myself. I did MUCH better on the old formulation than the new....I also
informed them that there were others who were not doing well on the new
formulation and that it was a shame because they might potentially lose
people to other drugs."
Kris
by Mary J. Shomon
February, 2002 -- Many patients have written to me, asking about the
differences they've noticed in their Levoxyl, the brand of levothyroxine
made by King Pharmaceuticals. People have reported that it dissolves
quickly, and some patients have found that they have become more hypothyroid
and required dosage adjustments.
I had an opportunity to find out some more details from King
Pharmaceutical's Senior Director of Corporate Affairs, James Green,
regarding the changes in Levoxyl.
The key issue is that Levoxyl, like the other levothyroxine products, was
required to go through Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval as a new
drug. To date, Unithroid and Levoxyl have received FDA approval -- Synthroid
and Levothroid have submitted applications but are awaiting approval.
Levoxyl's approval came in May of 2001.
The formulation for Levoxyl submitted to the FDA for approval was different
than the previous formulation, in order to ensure greater stability of the
active ingredients. This addressed one of the chief complaints of the FDA,
one that the new drug application process was meant to address. The
reformulated Levoxyl is now lactose-free, and is also a quick dissolving
formulation, unlike the previous formulation.
The quick dissolving formulation appears to be the change that has caused
the greatest confusion and concern. According to Green, the company issued
extensive information to pharmacists and doctors, indicating that patients
should be counseled to take the drug with plenty of water, and to swallow it
immediately. Green also said that the pharmacies had been asked that the
drugs carry a label indicating that they should be taken with plenty of
water.
Apparently, without enough water, there is a risk that the product will
dissolve rapidly in the mouth, which could potentially interfere with a
patient getting the proper dosage.
The new formula was being dispensed and distributed since August, but it
wasn't until October, however, that communications were issued to pharmacies
regarding the new formulation. Some patients who had larger supplies have
only recently been getting refills, and getting the newly formulated product
for the first time.
Some patients have reported that when picking up Levoxyl prescriptions
filled since August, they have not received any counseling from pharmacists
regarding these new instructions, nor are their bottles carrying labels
saying to take the product with plenty of water.
Some patients, who refilled prescriptions in the past several months and got
the new formulation -- but were not counselled regarding swallowing the
product immediately with sufficient water -- are also now reporting that
their TSH levels have risen and they have become hypothyroid.
Action Points
The key action points for thyroid patients who are taking reformulated
Levoxyl:
Be sure to swallow the medicine immediately, with plenty of water, so that
the Levoxyl does not dissolve on the tongue
If you have not been feeling well on the newly formulated Levoxyl, you
should have your thyroid blood levels tested to make sure that you don't
require a dosage adjustment, based on the new formulation
If you are taking your newly formulated Levoxyl properly, and still not
feeling well, it might be time to investigate a competing brand of
levothyroxine, or another thyroid drug. Read What is the Best Thyroid Drug

Karen,
Thank you for sharing this interesting info. I often wondered why my
endo switched me from Synthroid to Levothroid rather than to Levoxyl.
I wonder if he knew about the problem with Levoxyl?
Celeste

Wendy,
Could you mean "manganate?" It is form of the trace nutrient manganese
but is toxic in large doses.
Chuck Blatchley

Wendy,
If you can't find Magonate you might consider trying CalMax. In
addition to a very absorbable form of magnesium it contains calcium
and Vitamin C. I don't know what kind of magnesium Magonate is, but in
CalMax it is magnesium carbonate. CalMax is available at many web
stores. Just go to www.google.com and do a search.
Celeste

Thanks KAren

http://messenger.msn.com

Karen,
I was relieved when you mentioned skipping your period about every 4 mos. or so.
I skipped my period for the first time last July. I saw an ob/gyn (supposedly a
top-rated one) to see if there was anything I should be concerned about. He
said everything was fine and that this sort of thing just starts happening
around my age (35--gee, thanks a lot!). He never mentioned hormones and didn't
bother doing a blood or saliva test. It wasn't until October that another
doctor suggested a blood test--that's when I found out I was hypothyroid.
Doctors! Can't live with 'em...
Gail
Thanks KAren

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that's great!
keep us updated
Kathy

I find that if Vitaminshoppe.com carries it, the price is usually better
than elsewhere. They ship everywhere and the more you order the cheaper
shipping is since it's 4.99 no matter what you buy. Frontier carries bulk
herbal products that are priced well unless you have access to a co-op.
Puritan Pride has a web site...right now thru' their catalog (and maybe web
page) they have a by 2 get 3 free on many of their supplements. Makes B
complex and C's and E's very inexpensive. Read carefully so you don't end
up with synthetics.
SaraLou

Celeste, the only e mails that come from her are studies like this. I never
see her name on regular postings. One was on chemicals in water, so they

Hi EM,
Well a few things...... first, I skipped periods about once every four
months or so. I think that's somewhat usual for people with this disorder.
Second, I'm pregnant and the first symptom that I felt was sore breasts
(esp. on the sides). As of yet (I am 12 weeks), my TSH has not fluctuated.
My dr. told me that it will probably go up toward the end of the 2nd
trimester. However, in my first few weeks of pregnancy, I did have on and
off cramping that felt like period cramps and have been short of breath more
than usual. I don't know...... Everyone is so different. my EPT came back
positive after 6 days of missing my period. I hope you are! Good luck,
Karen

Agnes,
Could you please explain how this information is relevant to
hypothyroidism? It's not obvious to me.
Celeste

MEDLINEplus: Serotonin Blocker May Blunt Cancer Cell "Suicide"-
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_6798.html -
Serotonin Blocker May Blunt Cancer Cell "Suicide"
Reuters
Wednesday, March 27, 2002
LONDON, Mar 26 (Reuters Health) - Serotonin, a brain chemical that regulates
mood, has the capacity to cause certain cancer cells to self-destruct, a
British researcher showed on Tuesday. The findings could pave the way for new
treatments for a specific type of cancer called lymphoma.
The research also shows that antidepressant drugs like Prozac block the ability
of serotonin to trigger tumour cell death, raising the theoretical possibility
that the drugs could increase cancer risk. But Professor John Gordon of the
University of Birmingham, UK, who conducted the study, said patients should
keep taking their drugs since there is no evidence of any link in practice.
In test-tube experiments on a type of cancer called Burkitt's lymphoma, Gordon
and others found that serotonin caused cancerous cells to die off. Burkitt's
lymphoma normally forms in the neck or the stomach. It affects 2% of people
with AIDS and is most common in central Africa.
Through a series of experiments, the British researchers clarified the
mechanism by which serotonin enters lymphoma cells and triggers a mechanism
called apoptosis, or programmed cell death. The research is published in the
online edition of the medical journal Blood.
"Because we know the mechanism, we are now in a position to develop drug
analogues of serotonin that will do the same job but have better
pharmacological properties," Gordon told Reuters.
The work also provides an intriguing insight into the way that "positive
thinking" associated with high serotonin levels may play a key part in
effective cancer care. The mechanism by which serotonin can get inside cancer
cells and tell them to commit suicide suggests there is a clear "dialogue"
between the brain and the immune system, he said.
Eli Lilly and Co.'s Prozac, Glaxo SmithKline Plc's Paxil and Lundbeck's Celexa
all "substantially blocked" the cancer-killing effects of serotonin. The
finding reopens controversy about the widespread use of the class of
antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) that
first went on sale in the 1980s. Millions of people with depression and anxiety
have been prescribed the drugs, which have emerged as one of the biggest
sellers for the international pharmaceutical industry. They work by stopping
the "reuptake," or reabsorption, of serotonin by brain cells.
"We've shown that, in the test-tube, the SSRIs stop the action of the serotonin
on the cancer cells. But it's nigh on impossible to extrapolate to what's
happening in the body," Gordon told Reuters.
"We must stress the effects shown for SSRIs on cancer cells is indirect and
should cause no concern whatsoever to the many millions of people throughout
the world who are prescribed this class of antidepressants," he added.
A spokesman for Britain's Department of Health said the research was at a very
early stage and no increased risk of cancer had been detected.
Drug company officials said they did not believe their pills caused any
increase in cancer and questioned whether the high doses used in Gordon's
experiments may have affected the results.
"These data are from an in vitro (test-tube) study and as such they cannot be
extrapolated to a clinical setting with any degree of certainty," said Martin
Sutton, a spokesman for GlaxoSmithKline.
(C) 2002 Reuters Limited. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution
of Reuters content, including by framing, linking or similar means, is
expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Reuters. Reuters
shall not be liable for any errors or delays in the content, or for any actions
taken in reliance thereon.
Related News:
a.. More news on About Your Medicines
b.. More news on Cancer (General)
c.. More news on Drug and Medical Device Safety

I am hypothyroid with my TSH in control since past 4 months.
I am trying to concieve and today is my 52nd day without a period.
Could I be pregnant? The EPT gave negative results. My cycle has
ranged from 33-50 days in the last one year.
I am noticing some swelling in my ankle area. I used to have it when
my TSH was out of range. If I were pregnant now, would my TSH level
increase so soon?
Also, I am very tired, short of breath and have lower backache. But I
have had these earlier even when I was not pregnant. I also have PMS
like abdominal cramps on and off since about a week.
Please help,
EM.

If you have a good doc and the right medicine you won't need SSI etc. cuz
you will be well! Check out www.thyroid.about.com and look for a topdoc.
You might need to add B vitamins to the right thyroid medicine (not just
T4). All the condiitons you list are thyroid related so beware of a doc who
gives you medicine for every symptom.
Gracia

Hello! I'm new here. I have hypothyroidism, also dealing w/carpul
tunnel syndrome, anxiety/depression, obesity, and the doc is
plannign to run test to see if I have PCOS.
I've been looking into SSI, as I need some help paying for my doc
bills and meds, am only worried I may not be eligable. Is
hypothyroidism recognised as a "disability"? Are you, or do you know
someone, who is able to recieve help/benefits for thyroid diseases?
You help is appreciated!

This just keeps getting better. The effects from the guggul have
really evened out now. The effect started out last week as something
feeling like a hot flash has been transformed to a warmth that
emanates from my core . . . no more cold hands or cold feet! I'm quite
pleased to say the least.
Have a great weekend everyone!
Celeste

In a message dated 03/29/2002 7:42:05 AM Pacific Standard Time, ekjns@... writes:

One more question....does it taste okay do you mix it with anything else,
my blood sugar has always been kind of up and down so maybe I could
benefit.

Hi Karen,
Taste of aloe juice varies from brand to brand. George's has NO taste; it's like drinking water. Which is probably why there is debate over its effectiveness and maybe a lot of people think they are paying a high price FOR water, maybe. When I've recommended aloe vera juice to a client who might be resistant, I often suggest George's first since I feel I got the same benefit from it as I did from the more natural, nasty tasting stuff. But it is the most expensive brand.
I've gotten used to the taste. I figure I can gulp anything quickly enough or chase it with water if it's helping me feel better. But my kids and most people I know prefer to mix it with a little fruit juice. Trader Joes has a couple of brands, one combined with sugar and orange juice and the other is 100% pure aloe juice. I buy 100% pure because I don't want the sugar and whatever else they might add.
Definitely avoid buying the gel. Lily of the Desert brand makes a gel and a juice. Get the juice to drink; use the gel on sunburn. At one point I thought I would try to save money by using aloe vera herb capsules instead of juice. Big mistake. They have a strong laxative effect.
I'm curious to hear if your blood sugar lows smooth out with it as mine did! Enjoy!
Linda
"We are each responsible for our own life--no other person is or even *can* be." Oprah Winfrey

Thanks very much for the link on Levothyroxine. I
found it very interesting as I am currently on 100mcg
of unbranded generic Levothyroxine. I will keep the
areticle and read it again at some point when I am
less tired, but thanks for bringing it to the group.
Ali

HREF="http://thyroid.about.com/library/news/blgenerics.htm"

Renee,
How much vitamin C do you take per day? Try upping your vitamin C to
at least 1000 mg per day and use a sustained time-release formula. If
you're trying to fight a specific threat (such as your husband's
illness) you could try taking echinacea for 2 or 3 days.
Unfortunately, echinacea loses its effect if you take it much longer
than that. It only works if taken intermittently.
Best wishes,
Celeste

Hi guys/gals,
I'm wondering if there is anything I can do to boost my immune
system. My husband has come home with two awful diseases, the first
being the flu and the second one a weird flu-like bug that lasted 1
day.
Being hypo, I know my immune system is not working as well as it
should. I've been sick for the last 3 weeks. Now I think I have
bronchitus which I've NEVER had before.
Anything I can do to boost my immune system? I'm already taking my
Calc/Mag/Zinc supplement along with my multi. I'm also drinking one
cup of green tea a day.
Please help. I don't want to spend hours in the doctor's office.
PS - me and Lysol have become good friends :-)
Renee P.

A TSH of 6.44 is definitely hypothyroid - the usual range is something like
0.4-4.5. I have a TSH of 2.91 (last time I was tested) and have lots
(&lots!) of hypo symptoms. There is increasing evidence that a TSH of
greater than 2 is indicative of hypothyroidism.
HTH
Sally

In a message dated 03/28/2002 7:25:34 PM Pacific Standard Time, wendy_mcvay@... writes:

Am I just fighting the doctors because I don't want to be labeled as a mental patient??? Do I just need antidepressants & nothing else???? But, it's kind of odd that the Psychiatrist doesn't think I need them........and the other doctors think I do....Well.....I'm just glad for all of you out there. At least I have someone to talk to.

Wendy,
IMO, I think you should listen to your PDoc! Actually, a similar thing happened to me last year. After decades with no treatment for hypothyroidism, one of our kids became mentally ill. While working through that (pardon my French) shitty situation, I began to wonder if some of those mind bending drugs could help my feeling of low motivation, depression, mental confusion, etc. I consulted a PDoc and first thing out of the box, he told me I was hypothyroid and no competent psychiatrist should try to use drugs for mind therapy before the body chemistry of hypothyroidism gets worked out!
The rest, as they say, is history! Because of the PDoc's insistence, I found a doctor, then another doctor and then I found the Wilson's Thyroid Treatment which is helping me get well and it looks like I don't really need mind drugs at all! Most of my mental symptoms seem to be turning out to be related to having insufficient thyroid hormone!
So, from my standpoint, I think you should keep trying to find a doctor you relate well to, someone you trust and really educate yourself so you know when you're getting good care!
Good luck!
Linda
"We are each responsible for our own life--no other person is or even *can* be." Oprah Winfrey

In a message dated 03/28/2002 5:54:53 PM Pacific Standard Time, nabie67@... writes:

I'm just SO stoked. I was absolutely shocked when she told me the
number. My TSH was 3.54 2 months ago. I'm really wondering if JUST
getting 10-12 lbs off of my body is what did it.

Congrats, Renee! Good news!
Linda
"We are each responsible for our own life--no other person is or even *can* be." Oprah Winfrey

Maria,
I applaud your effort and persistence in finding the right combination
for your body. What a great example you have provided!
Celeste

Well, I'm so excited!!! I got the test results back from my doctor.
TSH = .97 ( it started out at 6.1)
T4= 1.6
Now, I thought the t4 was a little high but then I figured, no,
that's what you want. I'm on .075 mcg of Levoxl. I figure if it gets
too much, I'll figure it out real fast ( lack of sleep, jumpiness,
etc...) I don't go back for 3 months.
I'm just SO stoked. I was absolutely shocked when she told me the
number. My TSH was 3.54 2 months ago. I'm really wondering if JUST
getting 10-12 lbs off of my body is what did it.
Anwyay, just wanted to share.
Happily,
Renee P.

Karen,
I placed emphasis on the word MAIN when I said that I don't think
weight gain is a MAIN symptom of hypothyroidism. Hair loss is not a
MAIN symptom either. You don't read what I write and then all you can
do is attack me personally. That behavior definitely does not show
intelligence.
Celeste

this is going to be my last post on the subject. she may be a physical
dedication, but certainly not emotionally. Her statement here is rigid and
really bothered me "If weight gain is one of the main symptoms of
hypothyroidism then why doesn't every hypothyroid person experience it?".
The same reason why I don't have colness or loss of hair. I'm sorry but
that's not an intelligent statement. Not everyone has every symptom.
Hypothyroidism is a disease of the metabolism. It's like telling people
with muscular distrophy that even though their muscles hurt all the time, it
doesn't have to happen b/c not all people experience that. There are cases
in every disease where a small group of people experience mild symptoms.
That doesn't make up for the majority of us though that are fighting every
day to get well. Statements like that make people like us feel even worse
about ourselves and it's just one more person to add to the list who thinks
that nothing is good enough. That's just not what I need and I'm assuming
others would agree with me. Everyone experiences things different and one
size doesn't fit all. Celeste, you offended a lot of people on this list.
That is all I have to say - this subject is closed to me.
Karen

I have finally lost a substantial amount of weight for the first time in 8
years. (over 50lbs). I am working out, watching what I eat higher lean
protein, veggies, fruit - low on the junk food and sugars (but not out
entirely!!), on unithyroid and 3.75 mcg's of t-3. Plus herbs and
supplements. Not perfect yet, but there is hope. This weight things may
well have been the most frustrating time of my life. Unbelievably painful.

< < I uploaded a photo of myself to the group.
You can view it
< <HOW ARROGOANT! You're just. . .
Hey Guys!
C'mon! We asked Celeste what she looked like and she sent us a pict! Clearly she's an example of what dedication and focus can do! And I think she's been able to get for herself what I've been saying all along, which is the right medication in the right amount at the right time for HER! Fortunately, she was able to find that fairly quickly if I'm understanding her experience correctly and she's done very well with it. We could use her situation as a reminder to keep focusing on gettting the same things for ourselves: The right medicine for us, in the right amount, at the right time!
We got to have a good discussion about what support means here on the list. We all learned some important things. Celeste has apologized, what more is there? She clearly does a lot of research and is willing to share that information freely here. So, let's chill and get on with the sharing!
JMO,
Linda in LA

Linda How helpfull but that stuff may be hard to find in stores around here. in arkansas. BUt will try anyting .believe me. Thanks so much. Heather

Oh, it's been a weird morning! Can't seem to spell today!
In my last post regarding aloe vera juice I meant to say, "get the juice,
avoid the GEL." Also, avoid the capsules of powdered aloe vera. They
definitely do not have a positive effect!
Now, I'm going to massage and relax my brain!
Linda
"We are each responsible for our own life--no other person is or even *can*
be." Oprah Winfrey

Hi,
I just got Mary Shomon's newsletter today. Here's a link to an article you should read if you take levothyroxine (i.e., synthroid, levothroid, levoxyl). It talks about a study by Blue Cross showing that generic brands of levothyroxine are as effective as synthroid. But it has interesting, up-to-date information about the bioavailability of the drug, how it becomes unstable if stored near heat or light, and how the dosage needs to be tailored to each individual with careful monitoring. I learned a lot!
Here's the link: http://thyroid.about.com/library/news/blgenerics.htm
Linda
"We are each responsible for our own life--no other person is or even *can* be." Oprah Winfrey

In a message dated 03/28/2002 2:52:03 AM Pacific Standard Time, angelgirlhhr@... writes:

It's strange even coffee with caffine makes me sleepy instead of hyper. wierd i know but it is true. I just want to crash across the bed after a cup of coffee. When i was pg with my kids I was like that every time i ate anyting and i mean anything sweet.

Heather,
Have you tried green drinks? That might be something that could help give you more energy without the blood sugar crash caffeine causes. (Besides working with your doc to get on the best thyroid meds for you!) There are many kinds of green powders at the health food stores. Chlorella, barley green, green magma (which is powdered wheat grass), spirulina, and then mixtures of all kinds put together. They are quite expensive, so I would recommend you buy the smallest size possible to try in case they don't agree with you. If you buy chlorophyll or spirulina tablets, you have to chew them as they are SO dense, I've been told they don't dissolve in the digestive system. Eeeew!
Chlorophyll (the green stuff in plants) is a near identical molecule to hemoglobin (the red stuff in blood). If can give you energy and tons of minerals, vitamins, etc. I crave the stuff but for some reason my body doesn't tolerate it on a daily basis or in large amounts. Be careful if you want to try a combo type that you avoid any with goitrogens in it.
I like spirulina the most, myself.
All these green drink mixes taste pretty nasty so you will likely get the best results mixing them with juice. Start with small doses, not what's recommended on the label. I take 1 tsp to start. Also, try taking them at different times a day at first until you find a time that it helps you feel better. For some reason, early afternoon works better for me. But make sure not to take it too late in the day, it will keep you up at night the way B complex does.
I also suggest pure aloe vera juice and fennel tea to help prevent energy crashes. I'll make another post about them.
Good luck!
Linda in LA
"We are each responsible for our own life--no other person is or even *can* be." Oprah Winfrey

I am taking Armour.....i dont know if it is new....I
have been on it for three weeks now...and i dont feel
any difference ....go to doc next week
Susan

Renee

I heard that ginkoba stuff helped boost immune systems but if your hypo you might want to be care full as it has ginsing in it and can cause rapid heart rates.

Heather

nabie67 <nabie67@...

Anyone know of any supplements to take to aid an immune system? I've
been sick for what must be a month ( my husband keeps bringing home
viruses) and I'm really tired of it. I thought that maybe since I'm
hypo it probably doesn't help( of course, not getting the flu shot
probably hurt too). Anything I can do to boost it so I can stay
healthier? I already do a Calc/Mag/Zinc supplement along with a multi
vitamin daily.
Thanks,
Renee P.
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YES My choleroleha s always been great- since the thyroid problems and before treatment it was 265

Jody

Anyone know of any supplements to take to aid an immune system? I've
been sick for what must be a month ( my husband keeps bringing home
viruses) and I'm really tired of it. I thought that maybe since I'm
hypo it probably doesn't help( of course, not getting the flu shot
probably hurt too). Anything I can do to boost it so I can stay
healthier? I already do a Calc/Mag/Zinc supplement along with a multi
vitamin daily.
Thanks,
Renee P.

Is it true that people suffering from hypothroidism suffer from higher cholestrole levels

Heather
May God Bless and Keep You Always Love Heather

Fred

Is this new med Armour or how ever you spell it . Is it really that effective. And is it FDA approved.?? Since Synthorid is not.

Heather
May God Bless and Keep You Always Love Heather

Celeste,
I think everyone's metabolism is different. Some have an easier and
some a have harder time with weight control. I, too, have excersised
all my life. Weights, step aerobics, tennis, treadmill, floor aerobics.
I am overweight at present. Gained 30 pounds in two years. Still trying
to get meds right for me. I am a vegetarian. No meat,
(beef/chicken/fish, any meat at all), no milk. I did it for moral
reasons not health reasons. My cholesterol is 154, etc. If you are a
personal trainer, that's great, but you need to be sensitive to your
clients/friends/list members needs, as none of us are created equal in
metabolism, genetics, etc.
PS I'm 43.
Love,
Reneé and Jerry
rja86@...

I have been a skinny gal most all my life and then i had kids. My thyroid problem went from hyperthyroid to hypothroid and I am on .3mg of synthroid. I am so sleepy all the time instead

of more energy i have a lot less and i'm not loseing weight as fast as i had hoped. booo hoo. I am going to try a work out program when easter is over and make a goal that by the time Joel my eldest son is in First grade i will have gone from 166lbs to 133. my ideal weight. another words

my goal is to lose 33lbs. My tough point is remembering to take the meds. WiTh 3 lil boys i

am active and often forget to take them.

Heather
May God Bless and Keep You Always Love Heather

Celeste,
Your all knowing attitude is really getting on my nerves!
=====

Jody,
It sounds like you were not doing any resistance training so I could
understand the weight gain. Only muscle burns calories.
Celeste

the off days and was walking on the week-end with my sister-GAINED 8
lbs-yuck

Katrina, at first I read 51 pounds - thank God for you : ) That's actually what I have gained over the last year and a half : ( My specialist was going to test my adrenals and then I got pregnant, so she wants to wait until after the baby is born.

Karen

In a message dated 03/27/2002 3:40:44 PM Pacific Standard Time, katnap@... writes:

Last summer I worked out at the gym for 2 hours every night except Sunday
(aerobics, kick boxing, squash, weights, etc.). On Sundays, I would go
hiking in the mountains with my puppies. I reduced my carbs to minimal
amounts, and only ate whole foods (meat, fish, eggs, nuts, veg,
fruit). After 4 months, my body fat had decreased by 1% and my weight had
increased by 5lbs. I am currently on 6 grains of Armour Thyroid per day.

Last year when I was with my former endo, I was doing the Bill Phillips program which is weights three days, aerobic activity the other three days per week. Then, every other Sunday, I was doing fourteen mile bike rides at the beach with friends. I was eating a good diet of protein, carbs and a little fat. I was at my strongest physically, which was at odds with my overall health condition because I was cross all the time, I hurt all the time, I kept falling asleep while driving in our neighborhood or working, plus, I gained ten more pounds!
At that point, my endo told me I was lazy and started insisting I eliminate ALL carbs. I refused to do that since I'd tried that the year before and I couldn't ever get my food cravings to stop on that diet. I told him I needed more medicine, especially T3. He accused me of being a drug (T3) addict! He had me on 50 mcg synthroid and 2.5 mcg of cytomel at the time, hardly enough to even get my blood warmed up let alone get "addicted" to. The ridiculous part about that accusation is anyone who knows even the slightest thing about thyroid hormones knows they are not in any way psychologically or physically addictive or habit forming! And here is a board certified MD spouting such crap! I fired him and found another doctor.
Linda in LA
"We are each responsible for our own life--no other person is or even *can* be." Oprah Winfrey

Last summer I rode my bike 6 miles every other day, ran 2-3 miles the off days and was walking on the week-end with my sister-GAINED 8 lbs-yuck

Jody

Last summer I worked out at the gym for 2 hours every night except Sunday
(aerobics, kick boxing, squash, weights, etc.). On Sundays, I would go
hiking in the mountains with my puppies. I reduced my carbs to minimal
amounts, and only ate whole foods (meat, fish, eggs, nuts