Episode - heart palpitations, flushing, chemical feeling

[mehem]

I have been taking a very low dose 25 mcg levothyroxine for a few years but a recent blood test showed me hyperthyroid so I was taken off the med.  Within six weeks my TSH  jumped to 13.44 and I was put on 25 mcg.  Within another six weeks my TSH jumped to 38.04 and I started on 50 mcg.  About two weeks into taking 50 mcg I experienced a very strange episode of heart palpitations, feelings of chemicals and heat coursing through my body and a sinking feeling.  I got on the floor I felt so weak.  I ended up in the hospital where they found nodules on my throat and my TSH was still at 38.  My dosage was raised to 75 TSH and I haven't had another attack.  My question is - what caused the initial attack - the increased medication or the high TSH.  I also must add that about 3 days before the attack I stopped taking calcium and taking tums near when I took the pills.  Since the attack I stopped drinking coffe.

[goolarra]

Has anyone been testing your FT3 and FT4 as well as TSH?  TSH is a pituitary hormone and influenced by many factors other than thyroid hormone levels.  Meds adjustments should never be made based on TSH alone.  Symptoms and FT3 and FT4 are much more important.  

Often, high levels of FT3 will cause heart issues, like palps. However, many people experience palps when hypo also.  I'd ask my doctor to test FT3 and FT4 right away.  Until those are tested, you really have no clue what your thyroid status is.

[Lori575]

Have you been tested for autoimmune thyroid disorders, such as Hashimotos or Graves as well?  Hashimotos especially can cause fluctuations in levels.