Hello all,
just looking from opinions! I was diagnosed with the following levels:
TSH 3.56 (.45-4.0)
FT4 1.2 (.78-1.5)
FT3 3.0 (2.60-4.20)
I was put on Synthroid and over time was up to 75mg and Cytomel of 10mg. However, I was not tested for
any adrenal problems, etc. So, I just wasn't getting any better at all. I had fatigue, hair loss, horrible edema, etc.
After, 6 months I switched to a PA that specializes in hormone imbalances. He discovered that I had adrenal hormone deficiencies. I was low in pregnenolone, DHEA, testosterone, and progesterone. I had been on birth control for years and went off of it about a year ago. He had me begin taking supplements and these are the levels after
two months:
pregnenolone was 13 up to 103 now (7-188)
DHEA 61 up to 165 now (45-250)
progesterone <.05 during lutuel phase now 11.4 during lutuel phase; doctor said it should be around 15
So, I am improving taking the sex hormones. My micronized progesterone was raised from 50 to 100 mgs on my
last visit. So I am happy with these results.
However, my new thyroid labs are as follows:
TSH .019 (.45-4.0)
FT3 3.48 (2.70-5.7)
FT4 .81 (.78-1.5)
I am currently on two grains of armour. Additionally, I have low iron and ferritin but am taking 200 mg of elemental iron daily to increase my levels. These are my labs:
Ferritin 37 (6-137)
Iron total 66 (55-212)
TIBC 270 (250-425)
% Sat 24.4 (15-50)
I am not anemic based on my red blood cell and hemoglobin counts. But close enough in my opinion! I have
been borderline before and was able to increase it through taking ferrous sulfate.
I have been told that increasing my iron/ferritin levels will help me convert my thyroid drugs better. My FT4 is
a little lower now, but I know that is probably due to being on the T4/T3 combo. I still have fatigue but no
where near as bad. However, I still have the occasional nagging swollen ankles and my metabolism is nothing.
I work out and eat pretty good but no change in weight. In fact, I have gained since taking the progesterone.
My doctor wants to keep me at 2 grains of armour for now; however, I don't think I am being fully medicated. I believe
I should increase it to 2.5 or possibly 3 grains, well since both my FT4 and FT3 are below mid-range. He believed my TSH was surpressed enough at this level and with improving adrenals/iron it would correct.
Just looking for some thoughts and suggestions! I have gained 30 pounds over the past year from this, and I just want to feel better period!