Thyroid medications and bloating

[cap2008]

Hello Dr. Lupo,

I had a partial thyroidectomy in September 2007. Since then, I have been on 7 different medications as I could not tolerate them at all (chest pains, flushing, headaches, bloating, heartburn). I am currently on .25 mg of Levoxly cut in half daily.

I still am CONSTANTLY bloated and have so much pressure and pain and my stomach is SO distended, I look like I am 4-5 months pregnant. My clothes don't fit at all. I recently (2 months ago) starting taking a fiber supplement (psyllium) as I tend to get constipated.

I did not have this problem of this pressure and bloating, hearburn and distdended stomach until AFTER my surgery.

Could the medicine and the fact that my levels are not "normal" have anything to do with this bloating/distended stomach? Do you require a bit more info from me in order to provide an answer?

Please, any input to why I am so bloated, distended and uncomfortable would greatly be appreciated.

Thank you.

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

Hypothyroidism can cause bloating - would consider a gastroenterology evaluation to make sure there are not other causes of these symptoms.

If the labs state hypothyroidism, esp if TSH >10, then bloating, etc is more likely hypothyroid-related and this underscores the important of trying to find a medication you can tolerate.  In some cases like this I have had luck using cytomel alone for a while then adding T4 back in....

[shelbe87]

I wanted to let you know that you're not alone.  I have been having terrible bloating since starting thyroid meds.  I have started taking digestive enzymes after each meal and it has helped tremendously.  Maybe that would help you also.  

[cap2008]

Can you recommend a digestive enzyme? Thanks.

[cap2008]

Hello Dr. Lupo.

Are you suggesting that my endo give me a t3 & t4 combo medication instead of just t4 Levoxy?

[stella5349]

HypoT as stated by doctor Lupo causes bloating issues. The more hypo I was - the worse my bloating was too.  I found relief taking Magnesium citrate. I take 200mg every day and bloating is gone. HypoT patients experience binding of magnesium and the body has a tough time getting it through the system. It dispenses out of the urine and your body doesn't get much.

It may help trying  it- along with checking out the GI track too as Dr Lupo stated. I also take a probiotic enzyme - acidophillus - and that also has been a big help.

[shelbe87]

To answer your question:  I take a product called "Super Digestive Enzymes" which I get at GNC.  It is a GNC brand.  Hope this helps.

[GravesLady]

Raw vegetables and fruits!