Hypothyroidism

[mrsbarnes15]

I had a thyroidectomy in Feb 2012 because I had thyroid cancer. I feel horrible and need some advice, help or just some encourgement. Ive been on .125 mcg of levothyroxine for about 7 weeks now and I still feel horrible. The doc says my thyroid levels are normal but I feel like death. I keep having heart palps, like my heart is skipping beats. My chest hurts, im tired, sore and my anxiety is through the roof! I get dizzy, sweaty and depressed. I  cant stand feeling like this anymore, I dont even know what to think or how to feel. Should I keep taking this dose and wait to see if my levels regulate or should I be taking a higher dose?

[Barb135]

They need also to be testing Free T3 and Free T4..... those are the actual thyroid hormones.

Don't they give you copies of your labs?  If not, you should be asking for them.

[mrsbarnes15]

Ive been through hell since this surgery, I was seeing a Endo because my calcium levels dropped so low after the surgery. She wont see me for the thryoid problem unless my doctor sends another refferal.

[mrsbarnes15]

Thanks!
Yes I believe so. What else should they be testing? I know they checked for Iron, cholesteral etc.

[Barb135]

Is TSH the only thing they are testing?  If so, then YES, you need a different doctor, because that one will keep you ill.  

You should always get a copy of you lab report from your doctor. Doctors in the U.S. are required to provide a copy upon request.  I never leave my doctor's office without a copy.  My lab reports have become a running record of my thyroid issues.... I note on each one, the medication I was on when the lab was done, along with whatever symptoms I was having at the time.... My labs (and notations on them) tell me, at which levels I felt best, so that tells me what levels I need to target......

[mrsbarnes15]

Thanks barb for responding!
It has been about a week since they tested. My tsh was 2.5 two weeks ago and then last week it was 1.5. I have no idea what these numbers mean, I need to switch doctors because they dont seem to explain anything to me, I try and ask questions but they just kind of beat around the bush. He has told me that he thinks I have anxiety but I truley believe it is not.

[Barb135]

How long has it been since you had thyroid testing done?  At this point, you should be having blood work done every 6-8 weeks.  How about posting those "normal" levels, with reference ranges, which vary lab to lab, so must come from your own report.

125 mcg levo is a very high starting dose, so that may be cause of your symptoms.  Additionally, some of us need a beta blocker to get past the heart palps, etc.  

Also, be aware that anxiety can cause most of your symptoms, as well.