Neck pain with Hypothyroidism

[thyroidmom375]

My 16 year old has been diagnosed with hypothyroidism and started taking Synthroid (75 mcg and then 100 mcg) 6 weeks ago.  Her symptoms (extreme fatigue, body aches, headaches, hair loss) have not abated and have worsened since starting the Synthroid.  She has also had neck sensitivity in the area of the thyroid and overall neck stiffness and tightness.  The ultra sound of her thyroid was normal and both endocrinologists that we have seen have not seen this side effect with the Synthroid.  We are due blood tests to see what her TSH and free T4 levels are and if there are antibodies present that might indicate thyroiditis.  Has anyone heard of neck pain/discomfort as a result of taking Synthroid?  She does not have difficulty swallowing/breathing, but feels discomfort when swallowing and her throat feels full at times.  We would appreciate any help with this as she has been not feeling well for 6 months and is about at the end of her rope and patience.  Thank you.

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

Neck pain is not likely a side effect of the synthroid but may be due to Hashimoto's - did the ultrasound show normal size and normal echotexture -- the echotexture in Hashimoto's thyroiditis is "heterogeneous".  There are painful variants of Hashi and this may be what she is experiencing -- it usually settles down but may take a year or so.

If she is truly hypothyroid, then she will need long-term treatment.  Assuming the levels are in target range, it may be worth changing to a different brand to see if this helps.  Also consider other causes besides thyroid for her symptoms.