hi can you post the lab ranges with your numbers- sorry you feel so bad you are so not alone it will get better
First thing you need to realize is that TSH is a pituitary hormone that is affected by so many variables that it is a poor diagnostic for thyroid problems. At best it should be considered as an indicator, to be considered along with more important imdicators, which are symptoms, along with the levels of the actual thyroid hormones, free T3and free T4. Free T3 is the most important because it is four times as active as FT4, plus FT3 correlates best with hypo symptoms such as yours.
Having FT3 and FT4 symptoms even within the low end of their range does not mean everything is okay. The ranges are far too broad for that. Frequently we hear from members that relief of their symptoms required that FT3 was in the upper part of its range and FT4 at least at the midpoint of its range.
It's good that you have at least been tested for FT3 and FT4. You'd be amazed at how many times this does not occur. Now you have to convince your doctor that you want to be treated for your symptoms by adjusting FT3 and FT4 levels with whatever type of meedication is required to alleviate those symptoms, without being constrained by resultant TSH levels. Sincde your doctor is probably one of those with the "Immaculate TSH Belief", I expect that you will run into opposition to this. So be prepared to fight through it or find a good thyroid doctor that will treat you in this manner.
For info, here is a good link for you.
http://www.hormonerestoration.com/Thyroid.html
HI kate29, It is possible that you don't have a thyroid problem. It is possible that if you do have a thyroid problem it is secondary to another condition. You might have adrenal issues etc. I have had all of the symptoms you listed, including "Brain Fog" the rash and itching was really bizarre and I could not function unless I took antihistamines every day. I am Hyperthyroid with Toxic Multinodular Goiter. Endo gave me Methimazle that nearly killed me. after much research and going to a naturopath I found that I was deficient in MANY minerals. I could go on for an hour about what I went through to get on the right track but I won't. I am no expert but I have had to take control of my treatment and I have done a lot of research.
Have you had your antibodies tested? TGAb , TSI for Graves? Not knowing any of your history I will jut throw a few things out there.
I agree with gimel Your TSH can easily be all over the place from day to day or even the time of day. There are several reasons that your T4 could be low. What medication were you on? I am assuming that since you said they were treating you for Hyperthyroidism that you were on PTU or Methimazole, or a similar dug?
What other medications are you on that might possibly cause some of these side effects?
You might be deficient in Iron, copper or other minerals. Common problems with thyroid related disease is low Calcium and low Vitamin D. My doctor told me to take Calcium supplements up to 2000 mg a day. That was a NOT a good idea because that threw off my other minerals and I became deficient in Magnesium Zinc and Copper and got rashes and some pretty bad headaches and muscle cramps.
First can you rule out any environmental or diet issues?
One simple thing your can do that fairly inexpensive, is to get your hair tested for Deficiencies or toxins
Here is a site that does hair testing for $95 There are many labs out there that do it this is just one of many.
http://www.doctorajadams.com/elementalhairanalysislabbuy.html
Here is a little excerpt of what the test will provide:
"What is a hair mineral analysis?
A hair mineral analysis is an inexpensive and accurate tool used to assess the body for numerous conditions and to monitor progress on any healing modality. It reveals abnormalities not detected through other routine tests. Hair analysis provides information directly about metabolism on a cellular level. It assesses glucose tolerance, organ and glandular function, energy level, metabolism [the rate at which food is burned] and disease susceptibility based on the state of the immune system. Hair mineral analysis is also a powerful tool to identify and correct biochemical causes of mental, emotional and behavioral conditions. Minerals control neurotransmitters and other neuroactive chemicals. All the toxic metals are neurotoxic and have a profound effect on the brain. Conditions that often respond include depression, anxiety, epilepsy, phobias, insomnia, fatigue, mood swings, attention-deficit disorder and learning disorders. Additionally, the hair mineral analysis provides a guide for nutritional therapy, as well as a guide for monitoring progress. Comparing the results of repeated tissue mineral tests over a period of months is an excellent way to monitor subtle changes in body chemistry, regardless of which type of therapy is used. OnIy about one heaping teaspoon of hair is required, preferably from the nape of the neck, but pubic hair may also be used."
Since it sounds like you are sort of at your wits end you might want to look into some possibilities other than just thyroid.
Keep us posted.
McMIllan
I am thinking based off a guess on the free references you are low FT3 and Not normal...
How's the vit B or D tests?
Hair analysis for mineral testing cannot diagnose an individual. It is not possible and has never been achieved. However there are numerous companies offering all sorts of claims on hair mineral tests. While there are some correlations of hair minerals with body minerals, they can not be assessed in a quantifiable way, and as such are not able to interpret the results for an individual person.
You can have the hair test done, but do place confidence in it(you will most likely be told you will need to buy all sorts of mineral supplements from them) - it can be used as a bit of a novelty, but most likely will not give any accurate advice. The problem is you do not know which parts are accurate and which parts are wrong, so there is a real danger of aggravating problems you already have.
You will be better off getting a series of blood tests done.