No thyroid gland and getting bigger by the day

[Carmen1968]

Please Help!
I had my thyroid removed 5 years ago and can't stop gaining weight. (hypothyroidism) Over 50 pounds.
It is really starting to take a toll on my self esteem and dieting does not seem to be working.
Are there any success stories for weight loss for total thyroid removal patients?

[gimel]

Your doctor is required by law to give you a copy of your lab report upon your request.  So the first thing I suggest is that you get a copy and post your test results and reference ranges shown on the lab report. so that we can assess the adequacy of your testing and treatment, in light of your symptoms.

Frequently hypo patients taking large doses of T4 meds find that their body does not adequately convert the T4 to T3.  As a result the FT4 level may be adequate, or even on the high end of the range, but the most important thyroid hormone, Free T3 may only be in the lower part of its range, which is inadequate.  Many of our members report that symptom relief for them required that Free T3 was adjusted into the upper part of the range and Free T4 adjusted to around the midpoint of its range.  

By posting your test results and reference ranges we can assess whether the test results are are adequate, and if so, are they consistent with you still having hypo symptoms.

[Carmen1968]

I do not know what my levels are. My endocrinologist just increased my Levothyroxine to 150 MCG last week. Every time I complain about the weight, my doctor just says I need to diet. I know I'm not eating that much more, this is crazy.

[gimel]

Have you been adequately tested and treated for your lack of natural thyroid hormone?  If you will please post your thyroid test results and their reference ranges shown on the lab report members will be glad to assess.

[trish531]

I don't kow if this is going to help you at all but I was born withot the thyroid gland and as far back as I can remember my weight as always been an issue to me. I am now 56 and still about 20 pounds to heavy . What I have been doing is tracking what I eat doing some exersise daily. It also helps that I am a housekeeper in a Hospital . Lots of walking is the only thing that keeps me from weighing any heavier. I hope it gives you some idea of what you can do . Have you seen the doctor about your weight.?

[gimel]

Yes, we have many success stories.  It is all about getting the right testing and medication necessary to relieve symptoms, including the symptom of low metabolism/weight gain.  

What thyroid med are you taking and what dosage daily?  Also, please post your thyroid test results and their reference ranges shown on the lab report so that members can assess the adequacy of your testing and treatment.