types of thyroid issues

[kcr01]

My TSH was last tested in October 2008 and was 1.17 - from what I understand this is practically an optimal TSH and I should feel great.  
I don't have a thyroid disorder, though it runs in my family (3 members of my immediate family as well as several relatives.)

I have had MANY symptoms for five years, all unexplained by other illnesses: fatigue (extreme tiredness, very easily fatigued upon exertion), hair thinning, memory/concentration issues, low extremely sensitive to cold (my body temperature averages around 96.6), often have very cold hands to the point my fingers get stiff, etc.  Recently I got off birth control pills and discovered I did not get a period for several months, and didn't get one until I got back on the pill.  

In the last few years my voice has deepened, and now it gets hoarse daily and I can't really raise my voice above a certain volume.  My neck feels "full" or fat, even though it looks normal.  And recently literally overnight the area above my upper eyelids on both sides has become so puffy that they hang down and nearly completely cover my upper eyelid, as though they're retaining water or something.

I'm 34, this started when I was 29, but I don't think I'm taken very seriously because I'm on the thinner side and my weight has only gone up about 7 pounds and my TSH has been normal, and doctor's can't "see" my fatigue, etc.  How many different types of thyroid problems are there, does it sound like I could have one, and is TSH always either extremely low or elevated in the presence of a thyroid condition or should I ask for other tests?  Thanks!

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

hashimoto's is possible, but the general symptoms are not likely thyroid even with a nodule.

[kcr01]

Thank you, Dr. Lupo!  My total T4 and T3 were both elevated five years ago but due to estrogen from birth control pills.  
I do have a nodule that was found on an ultrasound in January - doctor said it had no worrisome characteristics - could Hashimoto's be a possibility, or would TSH be out of range if I had that?

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

If the TSH is repeatedly this normal - particularly with norma T4 and T3 levels then this is not likely thyroid problem.  The symptoms are concerning and suggestive of thyroid, but are nonspecific and if the levels are normal like this, it is not likely due to thyroid.