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Hair Loss Caused By Synthroid
Hi everyone.
Prior to the story before, I always had tons and tons of thick, healthy hair with NO hair loss.
In October 2009, I began having prolonged, non-stop menstruation and severe pelvic pain. Numerous tests later, docs had no idea what was wrong with me.
In January of 2010, my GP put me birth control pills for 3 months, but it didn't help me at all. In fact, it caused heavy hair loss which stopped when I stopped taking the pill, and also made my moods unstable (I'm usually calm/laid back otherwise).
After a month of no meds, in April of 2010 she put me on .25 levothyroxine as she thought I may be hypothyroid, because I was sluggish, depressed, and gaining weight (and still continued menstrual bleeding non-stop). . My TSH levels prior to any meds was 3.68.
A month later (May 2010), since my menstrual cycle was still abnormal, and my TSH had only come down to 2.99, my GP decided to increase my dosage to .50. At this point, my energy level was up, but so was my anxiety, and I was constantly flushed in the face and overheated/sweating all the time. But she said my body would adjust.
By the 3rd month on levothyroxine (June 2010) 3, my GP deided to increase my dosage to .75 to bring my TSH fown to the 1's. However, my menstrual cycles were still wacky. She also switched me to Synthroid.
Within 2 weeks, my hair began falling out in CLUMPS. I was clogging the shower drain 2-3 times per shower, and hair was literally falling off my head as I walked around. My head was raining hair. I freaked out, went to see her and he admitted I had already list a lot of hair. She said thyroid meds increase metabolism so maybe that's why I had hair loss, but to "stick it out" and my body would adjust.
Within 3 months, I had and continued to lose SO much hair, I was crying and hysterical every time I showered. I saw her again, and she said it was up to me to stay on the neds or not. They weren't helping my menstruation anyway, and I was sweating and losing hair. My TSH was at 1.04.
I weaned myself off the Synthroid by October 2010. I was no longer on ANY meds.
Fast forward to today, March 31, 2012...1.5 years post Ynthrod, and I still continue to lose hair daily. It has never stopped since back when I had no air loss but was put on thyroid meds.
I have seen many specialists, all at a loss as to what is going on.
I have regularly had my TSH (and occassionally my T3/T4 checked and all came back normal (TSH fluctuating between 2-3.5, depending on the time of nonth or day). I've been tested for autoimmune disorders and all came back negative.
But my hair has never stopped falling out since tht awful day I took thyroid meds. I have even lost nearly all the hair on my arms and half my legs. My bathroom floor is constantly covered with hair, and I barely have to shave my legs. What hair does grow back is fine and sparse. I now have very thin hair and I have to use Toppik yo cover the very sparse parts.
Three weeks ago, I went to yet another specialist and he ran a bunch of tests (my last thyroid tests were only a month before). His reults were vastly different than all the other times, and here are the results (and the lab ranges):
TSH - 5.93 (0.4-4.5 mIU/L)
TSH with Hama - 6.17 (no range given)
T4, Free - 1.0 (0.8-1.8 ng/dL)
T3, Free - 3.0 (2.3-4.2 pg/mL)
T3, Reverse - 30 (11-32 ng/dL)
Thyroglobulin Antibodies - <20 ( Follicular: > or = 2.7 ng/mL; Luteal: 3.0-31.4 pg/mL)
Testosterone, Free - 1.7 (0.2-5.0 pg/mL)
Testosterone, Bioavailable - 3.7 (0.5-8.5 ng/dL)
Sex Hormone Binding Globulin - 36 (17-124 nmol/L)
FSH - 4.0 mIU/mL (Follicular: 2.5-10.2; Mid-cycle Peak 3.1-17.7; Luteal: 1.5-9.1)
LH - 6.1 mIU/mL (Follicular: 1.9-12.5; Mid-cycle Peak 8.7-76.3; Luteal: 16.9)
Iron, Total - 54 (40-175 mcg/dL)
Iron Binding Capacity - 404 (250-450 mcg/dL)
Ferritin - 26 (10-154 ng/mL)
Transferrin - 250 (188-341 mg/dL)
DHEA Sulfate - 127 (40-325 mcg/dL)
Cortisol, 8 a.m. - 22.1 (4.0-22.0)
Magnesium - 5.8 (4.0-6.4 mg/dL)
Parathyroid Hormone, Intact - 50 (10-65 pg/mL)
As you see, the testing was extensive (and pergormed a week pre-menstrual cycle). But based on the TSH and the Free T3/T4 levels, he said he would diagnose me with Hashimoto's, even though (he said) my DHEA Sulfate is low for my age (mid-30s), so I may also have some Adrenal Fatigue.
I was shocked that he sees Hasimoto's in this, and wants me to take Adrenal Supplements (herbal), DHEA supplements (herbal), and eventually, Armour thyroid.
I told him I'll think about it, but wanted serious input from those who understand the levels I posted above. Why hadn't my hair loss stopped? And are my labs pointing to thyroid disease/imbalance/Hashimoto's or not?
P.S. my menstrual cycle is still somewhat wacky, and turns out I had ovarian adhesions that a laparosvopy surgery discoered and forrected.
Please share your thoughts and expertise...I really am confused as to what is happening to my body! I just want my normal hair back!
Prior to the story before, I always had tons and tons of thick, healthy hair with NO hair loss.
In October 2009, I began having prolonged, non-stop menstruation and severe pelvic pain. Numerous tests later, docs had no idea what was wrong with me.
In January of 2010, my GP put me birth control pills for 3 months, but it didn't help me at all. In fact, it caused heavy hair loss which stopped when I stopped taking the pill, and also made my moods unstable (I'm usually calm/laid back otherwise).
After a month of no meds, in April of 2010 she put me on .25 levothyroxine as she thought I may be hypothyroid, because I was sluggish, depressed, and gaining weight (and still continued menstrual bleeding non-stop). . My TSH levels prior to any meds was 3.68.
A month later (May 2010), since my menstrual cycle was still abnormal, and my TSH had only come down to 2.99, my GP decided to increase my dosage to .50. At this point, my energy level was up, but so was my anxiety, and I was constantly flushed in the face and overheated/sweating all the time. But she said my body would adjust.
By the 3rd month on levothyroxine (June 2010) 3, my GP deided to increase my dosage to .75 to bring my TSH fown to the 1's. However, my menstrual cycles were still wacky. She also switched me to Synthroid.
Within 2 weeks, my hair began falling out in CLUMPS. I was clogging the shower drain 2-3 times per shower, and hair was literally falling off my head as I walked around. My head was raining hair. I freaked out, went to see her and he admitted I had already list a lot of hair. She said thyroid meds increase metabolism so maybe that's why I had hair loss, but to "stick it out" and my body would adjust.
Within 3 months, I had and continued to lose SO much hair, I was crying and hysterical every time I showered. I saw her again, and she said it was up to me to stay on the neds or not. They weren't helping my menstruation anyway, and I was sweating and losing hair. My TSH was at 1.04.
I weaned myself off the Synthroid by October 2010. I was no longer on ANY meds.
Fast forward to today, March 31, 2012...1.5 years post Ynthrod, and I still continue to lose hair daily. It has never stopped since back when I had no air loss but was put on thyroid meds.
I have seen many specialists, all at a loss as to what is going on.
I have regularly had my TSH (and occassionally my T3/T4 checked and all came back normal (TSH fluctuating between 2-3.5, depending on the time of nonth or day). I've been tested for autoimmune disorders and all came back negative.
But my hair has never stopped falling out since tht awful day I took thyroid meds. I have even lost nearly all the hair on my arms and half my legs. My bathroom floor is constantly covered with hair, and I barely have to shave my legs. What hair does grow back is fine and sparse. I now have very thin hair and I have to use Toppik yo cover the very sparse parts.
Three weeks ago, I went to yet another specialist and he ran a bunch of tests (my last thyroid tests were only a month before). His reults were vastly different than all the other times, and here are the results (and the lab ranges):
TSH - 5.93 (0.4-4.5 mIU/L)
TSH with Hama - 6.17 (no range given)
T4, Free - 1.0 (0.8-1.8 ng/dL)
T3, Free - 3.0 (2.3-4.2 pg/mL)
T3, Reverse - 30 (11-32 ng/dL)
Thyroglobulin Antibodies - <20 ( Follicular: > or = 2.7 ng/mL; Luteal: 3.0-31.4 pg/mL)
Testosterone, Free - 1.7 (0.2-5.0 pg/mL)
Testosterone, Bioavailable - 3.7 (0.5-8.5 ng/dL)
Sex Hormone Binding Globulin - 36 (17-124 nmol/L)
FSH - 4.0 mIU/mL (Follicular: 2.5-10.2; Mid-cycle Peak 3.1-17.7; Luteal: 1.5-9.1)
LH - 6.1 mIU/mL (Follicular: 1.9-12.5; Mid-cycle Peak 8.7-76.3; Luteal: 16.9)
Iron, Total - 54 (40-175 mcg/dL)
Iron Binding Capacity - 404 (250-450 mcg/dL)
Ferritin - 26 (10-154 ng/mL)
Transferrin - 250 (188-341 mg/dL)
DHEA Sulfate - 127 (40-325 mcg/dL)
Cortisol, 8 a.m. - 22.1 (4.0-22.0)
Magnesium - 5.8 (4.0-6.4 mg/dL)
Parathyroid Hormone, Intact - 50 (10-65 pg/mL)
As you see, the testing was extensive (and pergormed a week pre-menstrual cycle). But based on the TSH and the Free T3/T4 levels, he said he would diagnose me with Hashimoto's, even though (he said) my DHEA Sulfate is low for my age (mid-30s), so I may also have some Adrenal Fatigue.
I was shocked that he sees Hasimoto's in this, and wants me to take Adrenal Supplements (herbal), DHEA supplements (herbal), and eventually, Armour thyroid.
I told him I'll think about it, but wanted serious input from those who understand the levels I posted above. Why hadn't my hair loss stopped? And are my labs pointing to thyroid disease/imbalance/Hashimoto's or not?
P.S. my menstrual cycle is still somewhat wacky, and turns out I had ovarian adhesions that a laparosvopy surgery discoered and forrected.
Please share your thoughts and expertise...I really am confused as to what is happening to my body! I just want my normal hair back!
COMMUNITY LEADER
jacrjacr... you are asking for updates from people who have not been active on the forum since 2012-2014, so it's very unlikely they will respond, at this time...
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2013/07/14/adrenal-testing.aspx More than 90 percent of the time, the adrenal program is enough to restore thyroid function. The biggest reason [for doing] the adrenals first is that when you start taking thyroid hormones your internal production of thyroid hormones drop. With the adrenal glands, it’s the opposite. When you start to take these adrenal-support products, your internal production of adrenal hormones comes back. If you can restore adrenal function, you can save the person from having to be on thyroid medications potentially for the rest of their life.” Thus the Ashwagandha suggestion.
You do have some adrenal fatigue and hasimotos based on your symptoms and numbers. Please try that doctors advice for at least six weeks. The heat intolerence is a BIG adrenal/hasimotos red flag. It's due to the inflammation caused by that duo. Treat the adrenal fatigue with the Ashwagandha and you'll notice you can handle heat more and more. High RT3 means your body is canceling out T3
Are you keeping up with labs regularly and increasing meds to compensate for the thyroid function you are losing all the time? Sometimes people react badly to the fillers in the tablets. So, perhaps Synthroid's fillers are not good with you. However, you have to make sure your levels remain consistent. Have you had labs since the switch to Symthroid?
I was diagnosed with Hashimoto about 1.5 years ago, at first I took levothyroxine but when my fatigue returned i was switched over to Synthroid a few months after starting Synthroid is when my hair shedding began. This causes me so much stress on a daily basis. Did you hair loss ever improve? I just emailed my doctor want to take the generic brand again and hoping to see some improvement. Everyone keeps telling me that its the Hashimoto causing the hair loss and not the meds but I don't beleive this.
1 Comments
WAS IT THE SYNTHROID? CAN YOU UPDATE ON HAIR...I AM WONDERING ALSO
One other area that can contribute to hair loss is low ferritin/iron. Have you been tested for ferritin level?
My question is once the adrenal and thyroid issues are addressed, does the hair grow back? I am also raining hair and my hair loss started when they raised my t3 and added 125mcg of levothyroxine.
Looking at your labs , what jumped out at me was your Ferritin is extremely low. I went through horrible hormonal hair loss due to quitting birth control pills at 51 and being in menopause . Low estrogen and low ferritin were problems and will be for any female. No matter what the cause of your hair loss you cant regrow hair until you get your Ferritin level above 70 and preferably above 100. The only good information I received from a dermatologist was the Ferritin clue. Once my Ferritin was over 70 my hair started sprouting .
Also, started Synthroid later when thyroid went out of range. Was losing hair like crazy before and once started, hair loss stopped! Texture is still a bit weird. Don't give up .........I had incredible hair (still do but not the same) and you must stay at it because many Dr's don't care! Do your research. Look at your hormone levels too even though you are young!
Also, started Synthroid later when thyroid went out of range. Was losing hair like crazy before and once started, hair loss stopped! Texture is still a bit weird. Don't give up .........I had incredible hair (still do but not the same) and you must stay at it because many Dr's don't care! Do your research. Look at your hormone levels too even though you are young!
You mentioned heavy periods and this is the main reason why women lose iron. One episode of heavy bleeding could drop your iron to abnormal levels, and then it happens every month. Women can lose 10 to 15 mg Iron with each period or even more if its heavy bleeding.
Ferritin of 30 is very low and could very well be a reason for losing your hair. Hopefully that it is as its very easy to restore and maintain normal iron levels.
From an Iron- Hair loss website:
There are two iron blood tests: hemoglobin and ferritin. For hemoglobin, the test range suggested as normal by your doctor is 117–160 g/L for women. Yet we know that a hemoglobin below 140 g/L will cause significant hair loss. Ferritin, which is your iron storage, has a suggested test range of 15–160 ug/L; but to prevent hair loss and ensure thick hair, your reading should be above 70 ug/L. (I'm at 105)
Hair follicles contain ferritin. When ferritin stores decline in the hair follicle, it affects the ability of the hair to grow causing non-pigmented fine hairs to develop. These hairs are often mistaken for androgenic alopecia. Low ferritin also causes the hair to change structure become dry, not hold the curl or color well and break easily. Hair loss can be gradual, a general thinning out over the years, or it can be sudden and startling.
=====
To replace Iron, other than eating iron rich foods such as eggs, red meat, greens, is to use an iron cast skillet. Iron leaks in to the food and you could maintain iron stores this way. Iron gets magnified in levels 3 to 5x or even higher when cooked in iron skillet. (google) You could email your MD and ask if its OK to take iron supplements as you want it up higher than 30 as you feel you need it according to your searches. Then have your Ferritin levels re checked as part of your regular check up. For myself, (i'm an RN ), I took Iron replacement for four weeks as I had signs of dropped iron from one episode of heavy bleed. (Yes, I still do as I am on hormonal replacement) My nails used to be hard and strong and they became very weak, and the edges were split, like pages of a book.It kept breaking up. I stopped at one month as heavy periods was not regular. Then I make sure to use the iron skillet for most cooking.
If you're a heavy bleeder, you might want to take your iron pills during your period,
For growing hair back, I noticed this as a side effect -
I started using the "High Frequency" machine months ago - D Arsonval skin care device for the face. Available on Amazon or Ebay,.> I noticed that its causing hair growth . I think it has the same effect as those expensive Laser Hair Combs they advertise to grow hair, except this machine is $35.00 on Ebay, or a little higher on Amazon.. You can read more about it on Amazon reviews. My hair has thinned out with age and child birth thru the years - and I noticed new hair growing to my absolute delight.. !!
On the other hand, I think too that none of this machines would work until nutritional deficiencies are restored.
That would be Iron, Vit D, Magnesium and the Thyroid, the Master of all glands.
Hope this helps. Its a long process as everyone knows, but there is hope.
Hair can grow back no matter how long it has been gone. :) :)
Ferritin of 30 is very low and could very well be a reason for losing your hair. Hopefully that it is as its very easy to restore and maintain normal iron levels.
From an Iron- Hair loss website:
There are two iron blood tests: hemoglobin and ferritin. For hemoglobin, the test range suggested as normal by your doctor is 117–160 g/L for women. Yet we know that a hemoglobin below 140 g/L will cause significant hair loss. Ferritin, which is your iron storage, has a suggested test range of 15–160 ug/L; but to prevent hair loss and ensure thick hair, your reading should be above 70 ug/L. (I'm at 105)
Hair follicles contain ferritin. When ferritin stores decline in the hair follicle, it affects the ability of the hair to grow causing non-pigmented fine hairs to develop. These hairs are often mistaken for androgenic alopecia. Low ferritin also causes the hair to change structure become dry, not hold the curl or color well and break easily. Hair loss can be gradual, a general thinning out over the years, or it can be sudden and startling.
=====
To replace Iron, other than eating iron rich foods such as eggs, red meat, greens, is to use an iron cast skillet. Iron leaks in to the food and you could maintain iron stores this way. Iron gets magnified in levels 3 to 5x or even higher when cooked in iron skillet. (google) You could email your MD and ask if its OK to take iron supplements as you want it up higher than 30 as you feel you need it according to your searches. Then have your Ferritin levels re checked as part of your regular check up. For myself, (i'm an RN ), I took Iron replacement for four weeks as I had signs of dropped iron from one episode of heavy bleed. (Yes, I still do as I am on hormonal replacement) My nails used to be hard and strong and they became very weak, and the edges were split, like pages of a book.It kept breaking up. I stopped at one month as heavy periods was not regular. Then I make sure to use the iron skillet for most cooking.
If you're a heavy bleeder, you might want to take your iron pills during your period,
For growing hair back, I noticed this as a side effect -
I started using the "High Frequency" machine months ago - D Arsonval skin care device for the face. Available on Amazon or Ebay,.> I noticed that its causing hair growth . I think it has the same effect as those expensive Laser Hair Combs they advertise to grow hair, except this machine is $35.00 on Ebay, or a little higher on Amazon.. You can read more about it on Amazon reviews. My hair has thinned out with age and child birth thru the years - and I noticed new hair growing to my absolute delight.. !!
On the other hand, I think too that none of this machines would work until nutritional deficiencies are restored.
That would be Iron, Vit D, Magnesium and the Thyroid, the Master of all glands.
Hope this helps. Its a long process as everyone knows, but there is hope.
Hair can grow back no matter how long it has been gone. :) :)
1 Comments
what is a high frequency machine
Hi to my co thyroid sufferers:
I also need thyroid support and in searching, I found this :
taking Zinc Glutonate x 4 months will increase both T3 and T4 .
Here's the study: Zinc and the thyroid gland , but when taking Zinc, you need to take care of your Iron stores.
According to an April 2009 study published in the journal Clinical Nutrition, zinc plays an essential role in thyroid hormone function. In fact, without the presence of zinc, the thyroid gland cannot transform the inactive hormone T4 into the active hormone T3. Furthermore, the hypothalamus also requires zinc to make the hormone it uses to signal the pituitary gland to activate the thyroid. All of this means that people with insufficient zinc levels are likely to have an underactive thyroid gland. Scientists have also found that zinc plays a role in promoting the activity of the thyroid receptors located inside the body's cells.
Zinc is the second most important trace mineral in the body, surpassed only by iron. It plays an important role in immune function, wound healing, blood clotting, reproduction, growth and smell - many of the same functions as the thyroid gland. Zinc deficiency is characterized by poor wound healing, loss of appetite, weight loss and white marks on the fingernails.
Supplementation boosts hormone levels
+++++++
A 2007 study conducted by researchers from the University of Pennsylvania and published in Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism found that physically active female college students with zinc deficiency were able to boost zinc, T3 and T4 levels in their blood simply by taking a 26 milligram zinc supplement (in the form of zinc glutonate) for four months. Over the same time period, their resting metabolic rate (RMR) also increased, a predicted effect of increased thyroid function.
"Zinc supplementation appeared to have a favorable effect on thyroid hormone levels, particularly total T(3), and RMR," the researchers wrote.
+++++++Notably; however, zinc supplementation also appeared to lead to decreases * in serum ferritin concentrations, a measure of iron status. This suggests that zinc supplementation may lead to a drop in the body's iron levels. It is also well known that excessive zinc intake may lead to copper deficiency, which in turn can lead to a wide variety of health problems including over-absorption of T4 into the bloodstream and therefore an overactive thyroid hormone.
For these and other reasons, it is important that zinc supplementation (or any metal supplementation) be overseen by a trained health professional.
====
Hope this could be a help to some of us.
I also need thyroid support and in searching, I found this :
taking Zinc Glutonate x 4 months will increase both T3 and T4 .
Here's the study: Zinc and the thyroid gland , but when taking Zinc, you need to take care of your Iron stores.
According to an April 2009 study published in the journal Clinical Nutrition, zinc plays an essential role in thyroid hormone function. In fact, without the presence of zinc, the thyroid gland cannot transform the inactive hormone T4 into the active hormone T3. Furthermore, the hypothalamus also requires zinc to make the hormone it uses to signal the pituitary gland to activate the thyroid. All of this means that people with insufficient zinc levels are likely to have an underactive thyroid gland. Scientists have also found that zinc plays a role in promoting the activity of the thyroid receptors located inside the body's cells.
Zinc is the second most important trace mineral in the body, surpassed only by iron. It plays an important role in immune function, wound healing, blood clotting, reproduction, growth and smell - many of the same functions as the thyroid gland. Zinc deficiency is characterized by poor wound healing, loss of appetite, weight loss and white marks on the fingernails.
Supplementation boosts hormone levels
+++++++
A 2007 study conducted by researchers from the University of Pennsylvania and published in Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism found that physically active female college students with zinc deficiency were able to boost zinc, T3 and T4 levels in their blood simply by taking a 26 milligram zinc supplement (in the form of zinc glutonate) for four months. Over the same time period, their resting metabolic rate (RMR) also increased, a predicted effect of increased thyroid function.
"Zinc supplementation appeared to have a favorable effect on thyroid hormone levels, particularly total T(3), and RMR," the researchers wrote.
+++++++Notably; however, zinc supplementation also appeared to lead to decreases * in serum ferritin concentrations, a measure of iron status. This suggests that zinc supplementation may lead to a drop in the body's iron levels. It is also well known that excessive zinc intake may lead to copper deficiency, which in turn can lead to a wide variety of health problems including over-absorption of T4 into the bloodstream and therefore an overactive thyroid hormone.
For these and other reasons, it is important that zinc supplementation (or any metal supplementation) be overseen by a trained health professional.
====
Hope this could be a help to some of us.
Hello, that was a very nice sharing. I wondered about those hair treatments.
I just wanted to ask: have you had your Ferritin levels checked ? I just watched Dr. Oz this pm and they had the episode on Low Iron.
symptoms are essentially the same as low thyroid.. And its one of the top causes of Hair Loss.
I also am hypothyroid x 11 years and I am on Levothyroid. I wanted to try Armour but my MD won't do it. I feel Ok on it though.
I too have found Dr. Browntein's book on Iodine and Thyroid.. Are you taking the accompanying supplements that he recommends ? Also wondering how did you do through the initial weeks of Bromine detox ? It had bad effects on my memory and it took a while to clear up with the sea salt regimen. It's scary to recommend it to others unless there is a medical follow up. I just had my labs done and my thyroid levels are OK even with the Iodine. I was afraid it would mess up my lab levels.
I mixed my own Iodine by getting the crystals on line. They have the formula on the internet. When I started Nursing, I remember giving 8 drops of Iodine in a glass of water seemingly for every disease. Then Iodine disappeared. That was long time ago. That's why I easily started myself on Iodine as lack of it could maybe caused my hypothyroid.
I don't know of anyone else around me who has done it. So nice to hear that you are. Cheers :)
I just wanted to ask: have you had your Ferritin levels checked ? I just watched Dr. Oz this pm and they had the episode on Low Iron.
symptoms are essentially the same as low thyroid.. And its one of the top causes of Hair Loss.
I also am hypothyroid x 11 years and I am on Levothyroid. I wanted to try Armour but my MD won't do it. I feel Ok on it though.
I too have found Dr. Browntein's book on Iodine and Thyroid.. Are you taking the accompanying supplements that he recommends ? Also wondering how did you do through the initial weeks of Bromine detox ? It had bad effects on my memory and it took a while to clear up with the sea salt regimen. It's scary to recommend it to others unless there is a medical follow up. I just had my labs done and my thyroid levels are OK even with the Iodine. I was afraid it would mess up my lab levels.
I mixed my own Iodine by getting the crystals on line. They have the formula on the internet. When I started Nursing, I remember giving 8 drops of Iodine in a glass of water seemingly for every disease. Then Iodine disappeared. That was long time ago. That's why I easily started myself on Iodine as lack of it could maybe caused my hypothyroid.
I don't know of anyone else around me who has done it. So nice to hear that you are. Cheers :)
I have never been diagnosed by a traditional doctor for having hypothyroid disease. My naturopathic MD, however, did and prescribed Armour thyroid 10 years ago. I have lost 80 percent of my hair and I wear what is termed a "cranial prosthetic" which is basically a thin skinned base that has strands of human hair individually injected into the base. The finished product is attached to your scalp via medical adhesive and it is virtually undetectable, even if someone put their hands through your hair. You do have to shave your scalp (for me I still have small bang, sides and back that I do not shave). The hair system blends seamlessly and I can part my hair in the middle all the way through my bang or any area of my head and it is totally unnoticeable the transition from your system to your bio hair. The scalp you see on the base of the hair system is your scalp. So you can actually scratch your own scalp (except don't so you do not loosen the knots of hair which are very strong by the way or should be). My unit is for the front, top and crown basically and is consider a small size. A custom template is made so that it fits the area perfectly. It will give you your confidence back. It will look just like your own bio hair and then you can stop thinking about your hair. I finally gave into this when so many doctors could not tell what really was causing it and I had finally gotten fed up with weaves. I had beautiful, long thick hair just like you. My hair is thinner now.
All my thyroid tests always come back normal. But, I have many symptoms but not all of them. Cold hands and feet, very sensitive to cold weather (can't stand it), swollen hands and feet or bloating in general, HAIR LOSS (severe at this point). My naturopath doctor gave me the basal thermometer test and I tested cold for 3 successive mornings.
Now to present. I have gone on a low carb, high fat/protein diet recently and I started experiencing heart palpitations. I was taking Armour thyroid (10 years) but had to get off of it because my thyroid function has kicked in and I don't seem to need the Armour. As well, I was taking DHEA and it "seems" I don't need the 10mg daily. I don't know how long this is going last. I don't intend on being on low carb for long. It's just to lose some weight. I tend to lose weight easily, but also gain in easily if I'm not watching it. I've gone gluten free and that makes weight loss much easier. I have a Blood Type O.
The thing I want to share though is that now I'm on Lugol's Iodine 5% (prescription required and it is purchased through a compounding pharmacy). I'm not having any withdrawal symptoms from not taking the Armour. I use to if I wasn't taking it for some reason for over 3 days. So far I feel great. This forum has got me thinking that perhaps I need to research more about this thyroid mystery and autoimmune disease. Someone told me my hair loss was because of an autoimmune disorder. I concluded I have female pattern baldness, not alopecia. Women get it just like men. All the doctors say different things and know nothing and have never been helpful. They just pumped my scalp with cortisone with no results (except gaining weight).
So thank you for this conversation, it has been very informative. I'm going to stick with Lugol's solution as a substitute for Armour. Also, I have a caffeine sensitivity but love coffee. I've practically weened myself off of it and just drink decaf (organic process of course). I'm wondering if I made my hair loss worse by drinking caffeine. I use to tell myself years ago, it's the coffee, but I couldn't stop drinking it.
Sooooo, I've never tested for having any thyroid problem, but clearly did. But my diet has changed the game and I just may have to be low carb. Just not this much low carb forever. Dana Carpender has much information about low carbing it.
Helpful links: Firstly, if you have to, go to www.hairdirect.com. They will teach you EVERYTHING about wearing hair. Trust me, no one, not even an airport security scan could detect it and it looks like the hair is growing out of your head. I love it! Hair Direct is a great company, I just found I could get better quality hair on my own. They are capable of making absolutely any texture, wave, curl you want. You can send them a picture or chat with them through Skype. Your confidence will be completely restored.
Maybe you can just use clipons at first while still trying to regrow your hair. I just know that you will be very happy with them. They have a forum and SOOO much help. Do not go to hairclub because they will rip you off. Something like $1000 a month. www.hairdirect.com will save you a lot of money not only on your hair system but also it does have to be detached and reattached every 2-5 weeks and they will teach you how to do it yourself. Hairclub will charge you through the nose and you can learn everything and do it yourself. DIY.
I hope this has been helpful. Read: The Iodine Crisis: What You Don't Know About Iodine Can Wreck Your Life by Dr. David Brownstein. My naturopath has been trying to get me on it for the past 3 years and finally I'm cooperating. I just take 5 drops per day. And I've also read that massaging "white" iodine on your scalp every day can also stimulate hair growth. But I've never had the patience. I'm still trying to save the rest of my hair but I'm very pleased with my hair system as it blends beautifully with my existing bio hair around the perimeter. It is gorgeous.
Don't be afraid, there are alternatives that you can live with. We just have to get to a place of acceptance and once there, there is peace and happiness!
All my thyroid tests always come back normal. But, I have many symptoms but not all of them. Cold hands and feet, very sensitive to cold weather (can't stand it), swollen hands and feet or bloating in general, HAIR LOSS (severe at this point). My naturopath doctor gave me the basal thermometer test and I tested cold for 3 successive mornings.
Now to present. I have gone on a low carb, high fat/protein diet recently and I started experiencing heart palpitations. I was taking Armour thyroid (10 years) but had to get off of it because my thyroid function has kicked in and I don't seem to need the Armour. As well, I was taking DHEA and it "seems" I don't need the 10mg daily. I don't know how long this is going last. I don't intend on being on low carb for long. It's just to lose some weight. I tend to lose weight easily, but also gain in easily if I'm not watching it. I've gone gluten free and that makes weight loss much easier. I have a Blood Type O.
The thing I want to share though is that now I'm on Lugol's Iodine 5% (prescription required and it is purchased through a compounding pharmacy). I'm not having any withdrawal symptoms from not taking the Armour. I use to if I wasn't taking it for some reason for over 3 days. So far I feel great. This forum has got me thinking that perhaps I need to research more about this thyroid mystery and autoimmune disease. Someone told me my hair loss was because of an autoimmune disorder. I concluded I have female pattern baldness, not alopecia. Women get it just like men. All the doctors say different things and know nothing and have never been helpful. They just pumped my scalp with cortisone with no results (except gaining weight).
So thank you for this conversation, it has been very informative. I'm going to stick with Lugol's solution as a substitute for Armour. Also, I have a caffeine sensitivity but love coffee. I've practically weened myself off of it and just drink decaf (organic process of course). I'm wondering if I made my hair loss worse by drinking caffeine. I use to tell myself years ago, it's the coffee, but I couldn't stop drinking it.
Sooooo, I've never tested for having any thyroid problem, but clearly did. But my diet has changed the game and I just may have to be low carb. Just not this much low carb forever. Dana Carpender has much information about low carbing it.
Helpful links: Firstly, if you have to, go to www.hairdirect.com. They will teach you EVERYTHING about wearing hair. Trust me, no one, not even an airport security scan could detect it and it looks like the hair is growing out of your head. I love it! Hair Direct is a great company, I just found I could get better quality hair on my own. They are capable of making absolutely any texture, wave, curl you want. You can send them a picture or chat with them through Skype. Your confidence will be completely restored.
Maybe you can just use clipons at first while still trying to regrow your hair. I just know that you will be very happy with them. They have a forum and SOOO much help. Do not go to hairclub because they will rip you off. Something like $1000 a month. www.hairdirect.com will save you a lot of money not only on your hair system but also it does have to be detached and reattached every 2-5 weeks and they will teach you how to do it yourself. Hairclub will charge you through the nose and you can learn everything and do it yourself. DIY.
I hope this has been helpful. Read: The Iodine Crisis: What You Don't Know About Iodine Can Wreck Your Life by Dr. David Brownstein. My naturopath has been trying to get me on it for the past 3 years and finally I'm cooperating. I just take 5 drops per day. And I've also read that massaging "white" iodine on your scalp every day can also stimulate hair growth. But I've never had the patience. I'm still trying to save the rest of my hair but I'm very pleased with my hair system as it blends beautifully with my existing bio hair around the perimeter. It is gorgeous.
Don't be afraid, there are alternatives that you can live with. We just have to get to a place of acceptance and once there, there is peace and happiness!
I agree with what goolarra said. From the way many ranges are established, the lower half is frequently suspect. For that reason, the recommended levels for Vitamin D are around the middle of the range, for ferritin 70 - 80 for women, and for B12 the upper third of the range. Note that in Japan and Europe the B12 range starts at 500.
While I'm by no means an expert on all these tests, my take away is that most ranges are only valid in the middle, if that. For example, the lower ends of the ranges for both vitamins D and B-12 are distinctly questionable (ludicrous?). I think any result in the lower half of a range ought to be questioned.
Hi, I have what seems to be thyroid problems as well, 15 symptoms of it. Do you know if Vitamin D, B12 and Ferritin levels are like TSH where there is a range, but the range is really not accurate for most people and will still cause problems? Or can we believe the docs when they say our Vitamin D, B12 and Ferritin are within range?
Please post your thyroid related test results and their reference ranges shown on the lab report. Also, have you been tested for Vitamin D, B12 and ferritin? If so, please post those, with ranges.
Nope, still losing hair and no amount of tests show why. As I said in my original post...I never had a hair loss issue before taking Synthroid and 3 months after taking the medication, the massive shedding began and it's still massive...and it's never stopped. I probably have about...40% of my original hair, if that. It's very traumatic.
1 Comments
did they tst your ferritin serum to make sure it is over 80 and test for estrogen dominance, and or vit d3 , b12, and free t3 that all can cause hair loss?
Just to update: still losing hair, now on compounded t3/t4 meds, very low dose as my thyroid panel levels are really very mildly low without meds. But I am desperate to get my hair back, though I lose it in clumps still every single day. So I'm still trying. I am not in menopause, FYI.
Took Naturethroid for 6 weeks and it caused a bald spot in front of my ead. Lovely.
Wish I had never taken Synthroid because I never had hair loss. It has changed my life for the worst. I barely leave the house now.
For anyone who says Synthroid didn't cause the hair loss - STOP. The company was even sued a few years ago for exactly that irreversible side effect for MANY. So just STOP.
Everyone else in the same boat: I am so sorry. I truly feel your pain.
Took Naturethroid for 6 weeks and it caused a bald spot in front of my ead. Lovely.
Wish I had never taken Synthroid because I never had hair loss. It has changed my life for the worst. I barely leave the house now.
For anyone who says Synthroid didn't cause the hair loss - STOP. The company was even sued a few years ago for exactly that irreversible side effect for MANY. So just STOP.
Everyone else in the same boat: I am so sorry. I truly feel your pain.
although you may have Hashi's, have you been tested to see if you are in menopause? I had the same problem as you, and it took over of year of heavy cycles, then it all just stopped. I was in menopause. I also have Hashis for 20 years now, trouble with hair loss still. There are no easy answers unfortunately, and you can stress yourself out trying to find them. We are not just the results of lab work, everyone if different, and stress in itself, will cause your hair to fall out. Good luck, hope you found some help.
I'm 19 years old and was diagnosed with hypothroidism and hoshimotos when I was 13. I was put on a small dose of synthroid and the problem was quickly corrected. In the past year, I wasn't too good about taking my medication, but two months ago, when I had to have my Thyroid levels checked before I headed off to college, my TSH level came back at 7.57, which is extremely high. I was immediately put on 125 mcg per day of Synthroid and 4 days later I noticed that in clumps, my hair was falling out. Within a week, I had lost half my hair.
It is now two months later and I am almost completely bald as a freshman female in college. I have, at best, 10% of the hair I had two months ago. It is painful to look in the mirror. I go through a bottle of Toppik hair powder every two days just to cover up my bald patches. I used to have long, THICK, curly hair and since it started falling out, I had to cut it to my shoulders and it has become thin and coarse.
I've tried everything: Primose Oil, steroid injection shots in my head, I've gotten a scalp biopsy, and I wake up at 6:30 every morning just to take my medication. (you are supposed to take it an hour before you eat) My life is miserable. I can't go out, everyone notices my hair loss, and I can only wash my hair once a week when my roommate is not around. I have a wig sitting in my closet but I just can't bring myself to wear it.
I honestly have no idea what to do, all my TSH, T3, T4, iron, and DHEA levels are completely normal now and have been for about 6 weeks. Hopefully I start seeing some hair growth soon.
If you have had any improvement or if anyone has any tips at all, PLEASE let me know. I am desperate.
It is now two months later and I am almost completely bald as a freshman female in college. I have, at best, 10% of the hair I had two months ago. It is painful to look in the mirror. I go through a bottle of Toppik hair powder every two days just to cover up my bald patches. I used to have long, THICK, curly hair and since it started falling out, I had to cut it to my shoulders and it has become thin and coarse.
I've tried everything: Primose Oil, steroid injection shots in my head, I've gotten a scalp biopsy, and I wake up at 6:30 every morning just to take my medication. (you are supposed to take it an hour before you eat) My life is miserable. I can't go out, everyone notices my hair loss, and I can only wash my hair once a week when my roommate is not around. I have a wig sitting in my closet but I just can't bring myself to wear it.
I honestly have no idea what to do, all my TSH, T3, T4, iron, and DHEA levels are completely normal now and have been for about 6 weeks. Hopefully I start seeing some hair growth soon.
If you have had any improvement or if anyone has any tips at all, PLEASE let me know. I am desperate.
1 Comments
cant believe he started you out with that dosage that high all at once....probably shocked your system.....are you still on it
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Hair loss is a symptom of hypothyroidism. It may be that you continue to lose hair, because you are still hypo, due to inadequate conversion of FT4 to the usable FT3.
Many people have reactions to the fillers/binders or dyes, in various pills. Tirosint has no fillers/binders or dyes, to it's virtually hypoallergenic. You don't mention the dose of Tirosint you were on, so I'd have to guess that it was probably too high.
In addition, many of us have to be put on a beta blocker to alleviate heart related symptoms, while adjusting to thyroid medication. Some are able to get off them, once the medication is adjusted; others have to stay on them.
You should pay strict attention to eliminating anything you are intolerant or allergic to, from your diet. Allergies are not caused by Hashimoto's, nor does Hashimoto's cause the allergies.
B12 in the low 300's is too low, even though it might be within the reference range your lab uses. I have to keep mine right at the very top of the range, or even slightly over, in order to feel well. Not sure what type of supplement you are taking, but if you don't absorb it well, through the stomach, no amount of supplement will help you. You might try a sublingual or liquid version, as those are absorbed through the capillaries under your tongue and do have have to go through the stomach. Another option is shots. I do them once/week.
It would be most helpful to us if you could post your most recent lab results, so we can better assess the testing/treatment you are receiving. Be sure to include reference ranges, since those vary lab to lab and must come from your own report.
Many people have reactions to the fillers/binders or dyes, in various pills. Tirosint has no fillers/binders or dyes, to it's virtually hypoallergenic. You don't mention the dose of Tirosint you were on, so I'd have to guess that it was probably too high.
In addition, many of us have to be put on a beta blocker to alleviate heart related symptoms, while adjusting to thyroid medication. Some are able to get off them, once the medication is adjusted; others have to stay on them.
You should pay strict attention to eliminating anything you are intolerant or allergic to, from your diet. Allergies are not caused by Hashimoto's, nor does Hashimoto's cause the allergies.
B12 in the low 300's is too low, even though it might be within the reference range your lab uses. I have to keep mine right at the very top of the range, or even slightly over, in order to feel well. Not sure what type of supplement you are taking, but if you don't absorb it well, through the stomach, no amount of supplement will help you. You might try a sublingual or liquid version, as those are absorbed through the capillaries under your tongue and do have have to go through the stomach. Another option is shots. I do them once/week.
It would be most helpful to us if you could post your most recent lab results, so we can better assess the testing/treatment you are receiving. Be sure to include reference ranges, since those vary lab to lab and must come from your own report.
Also, do you have hashi?? Because I have noticed as well.. in the fall I get so sick... I have allergies.. but my thyroid symptoms go crazy every fall as well!!
Wow... what alot of great info here... I have a couple of questions. I came up in bloodwork having intolerance or food allergies to gluten and chocolate... I was strict for over a year... but now I cheat left and right... I wanted to know if the Whey protein has wheat in it?? I don't know about it.. but it sounds like it?.. haha...
also.. my B12 was low 300s and I was told to take a supp.. of course all the Bs except Biotin (which even at 5G and all these years has don't absolutely nothing for me)... they cause palpitations anxiety and heart issues for me...
Even fish oil after a few months caused painful muscles.. I couldn't even bend down anymore...
I have Hashimoto and I am assuming all of this allergy stuff goes with it...
Thanks so much!!
also.. my B12 was low 300s and I was told to take a supp.. of course all the Bs except Biotin (which even at 5G and all these years has don't absolutely nothing for me)... they cause palpitations anxiety and heart issues for me...
Even fish oil after a few months caused painful muscles.. I couldn't even bend down anymore...
I have Hashimoto and I am assuming all of this allergy stuff goes with it...
Thanks so much!!
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