Thyroid Questions

[ithomp0821]

Hi, I'm a 21 year old male and I had half my thyroid removed about 6 months ago and recently started Levothyroxine medication for hypothyroidism about 4 months ago. My endocrinologist said he got my levels normal and sent me back to my family doctor and now she prescribes me my medication of 50 MCG Levothyroxine. At first I was feeling great but recently I've been having some symptoms. I'm cold, exhausted by 8pm. I also gained about 20 pound from my surgery til now. Is there a diet I need to follow? Has anyone had any success with just T4 medication?

[Barb135]

Forgot to mention that just because levels are in the "normal" range, doesn't mean they're right for you...

[Barb135]

Many people find success with just T4 medication, but it has to be dosed properly.  

What was the reason for having half your thyroid removed?  

Is your doctor testing your thyroid hormone levels regularly?  She should be testing Free T3 and Free T4, along with TSH, at regular intervals - preferably, every 6-8 weeks until symptoms have been alleviated.  

Since you still have symptoms, I'd say your dosage is not adequate.

If you'll post your most current lab results, we can better tell what testing is being done and help determine what you might need for treatment.  Be sure to post reference ranges with all labs, as ranges vary lab to lab and have to come from your own report.