Antibodies to Thyroid

[tiredfedup]

Last year I was diagnosed with antibodies to my thyroid and chronic thyroiditis.  The endocrinologist would not treat me because my TSH was in normal range, but told me to have my levels checked every three months because eventually I would need treatment for hypo or hyperthyroidism.  I had symptoms including fatigue, depression, and a swollen neck, which is enough to be noticed by other people.  Recently I feel much sicker, but still test within the normal range.  The only hope I have found so far is a holistic nutritionist.  It is difficult to find any doctor to listen to let alone treat me.  I would so greatly appreciate any insight from anyone as it has already been so helpful to read your stories and questions...I feel less alone and less hopeless!

Thank you so much!

[tiredfedup]

I am so sorry to hear what a difficult journey you have had.  To feel so horrible for so long is unfair.  How are you doing now, after the thyroidectomy?  Are they able to get your levels right with medication?  It makes me so angry for you.  I believe that in a few years, hopefully, "they" will know more about this disease.

I feel like I have the worst memory lately and feel very foggy all the time on top of being exhausted. Did you feel like you couldn't think sometimes?

I really appreciate you sharing your story with me...it helps so much just to hear it and encourages me to keep trying to find help.  I am going to try another endocrinologist and a holistic nutritionist.  

Thank you!

[redheadaussie]

Hi, TSH at 2.3 could be indicitive of hypothyroidism..usually goes with Hashimoto's disease. Yes, you need to have your Free T4 and Free T3 tests done too.
  I was not diagnosed for over 15 years and hit my head against brick walls too, being told I was within normal range. My antibodies were 1468 before my anyone would listen! By then of course it was too late and I had to have a total thyroidectomy.
I felt totally lousy at 2.75 TSH with normal range Free T4 and Free T3...plus not knowing I had Hashimoto's, was very frustrating to live with. Slept nearly 18 hours a day and put on a ton of weight even though I was not eating all that much.
  So get your  doctor to understand that for you, a lower TSH might make the world of difference. If they won't listen then do go see another doctor.

[goolarra]

You should get your free T3 and free T4 tested and post them along with their reference ranges.

Your antibodies indicate Hashi's.

If you're symptomatic, your doctor ought to be treating you. If s/he won't, you need a new doctor.

[tiredfedup]

My TSH was 2.3 and my throid antibodies were 235

[momto3girls]

What was your TSH?