Depression and hypothyroidism/Hashimoto's

[Umm Hafsa]

Hi,

I have been suffering low thyroid since I was a teenager.  I was only diagnosed in my mid-20's.  I am a breastfeeding mother of three.  I have been only steadily on synthroid for 8 months, right now I am taking .75 mcg.  Also my blood tests show Hashimoto's.  I am under average with cortisol also based on blood and ASI saliva tests, and I am anemic.  I have had blood work done and just recently an ASI saliva test.  I have been consulting with a naturopath also.

Right now my current treatment is Isocort (1-2 3x a day) and Synthroid and I probably will be taking licorice as per my naturopath's recommendations.  

My condition right now is extremely low energy, moodiness, some depression that kind of goes up and down, and lack of concentration and memory problems.  Also I suffer from incontinence, mostly urge incontinence.  

I understand depression and moodiness are perhaps normal for me, but I would really like to improve my mood/depression, since I think it really affects me, and my kids, and my life in general.  I would like to know if I switch to Armour if that might help, or if there are any other suggestions for medication or herbs, which I could take now while breastfeeding or in the future after I am finished breastfeeding.

Also if a switch to Armour would be helpful, what equivalent Armour dose would you recommend.  Also do Synthroid Armour or any medications you may suggest (perhaps anti-depressants?) harmful to a baby if breastfeeding?  I'd like to stay away from as much meds as possible, perhaps a more natural route?  Your suggestions  are appreciated.

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

Would have an endocrinologist evaluate the adrenals before considering T3 (ie, armour) treatment. This means a formal ACTH stimulation test and possibly adrenal antibodies.  Licorice can cause hypertension in some people and I would avoid it.  I do not endorse the concept of using low-dose steroids for "adrenal fatigue".  Thyroid meds (properly dosed) are not a problem with breast feeding.  Goal TSH is around 1.0.

[CCGirl41]

Umm Hafsa,
I have found that Naturopath and Osteopath Dr.s, view things totally different than do other MDs and Endos.
Your use of Isocort will likely not be agreed with by a regular MD or the licorice either because without having full blown adrenal insufficiency, your low adrenals state will not be recognized unless you fail an ACTH adrenal stimulation test.
Also most MDs do not recognize depression or anxiety as being thyroid related, if you are already being treated for thyroid.
This is just my opinion, but when it comes to the adrenal problem you have and asking for suggestions about herbs, your Naturopath or Ostepath, will have the suggestions you need in those areas.
The Dr. on this forum gives great advice about treatment TSH and his advice on this will be beneficial to you for the thyroid aspect.

[lazydog]

I found my mood has improved greatly since changing to T4/T3 combo.  Am generally much happier and not so concerned about not having enough time to do everything.

[tinkerbell 2006]

I found no relief for my depression despite the fact I had been on anti-depressants for years  until I switched from synthetic T4 to Armour. I am now off anti-depressants and although I still have a lot of life challenges I am handling them a lot better.