What kind of Dr. should I see to treat my Hypothyroidism?

[mboehmke]

Hello, I am 34 years old. I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism after my first baby was born.  I was taking 50mcg levoxyl.  I got pregnant with my second baby and I never had to increase my medication.  After my baby was born, around 6 weeks my TSH was 0.06.  My gyno only tested for TSH and had me cut back to taking my thyroid meds every other day.  Then I got tested again around 2 months later and my TSH was 0.05.  My dr told me to stop taking my thyroid meds.  Now 5 months after my baby was born, I knew my thyroid was not working right and got tested again.  A different dr tested only TSH.  My TSH was >50, so now I'm back on 50mcg levoxyl.  My question is why did my TSH change so drastically? And how do I find a Dr that knows how to treat hypothryroidism? Or how do I get them to test me for the other tests I'm supposed to get? My hypothryroidism is not going to magically cure itself right?? Should I see an endocrinologist to make sure I'm on the right track? Are there any supplements I should be taking for a healthier thyroid?? Thanks

[gimel]

I just sent you a PM with info.  To access, just click on your name and then from your personal page, click on messages.  

[gimel]

What you need is a good thyroid doctor.  That doesn't necessarily mean an Endo.  A good thyroid doctor will diagnose and treat a hypothyroid patient based on symptoms first, along with levels of the biologically active thyroid hormones, Free T4 and Free T3.   The goal for medication of a hypothyroid patient is to eliminate signs/symptoms of hypothyroidism, without creating signs/symptoms of hyperthyroidism.  That "sweet spot" is called euthyroidism.  

So please tell us about symptoms you were having when off the medication and what symptoms you have now.  

Also, If you will tell us your location, perhaps we can suggest a doctor that has been recommended by other thyroid patients.  

[mboehmke]

Hi, I am also nursing a 5 month old baby so my symptoms are slightly masked by having a new baby.  I am always tired even after sleeping 8 hours a night. My hands are very dry and my hair is falling out.  I thought this was due to having a baby. After giving birth my weight was decreasing like I thought it would, but after getting off Levoxyl, I started gaining weight.  I couldn't understand it because in order for a nursing mom to gain weight I would have to eat more than 2600 calories a day and I do not eat that much.  I am unable to lose the weight.  I also have anxiety.  And my milk supply has decreased slightly.  I am so exhausted after work that I get nothing done.

I live close to Madison, WI.  

Thank You for any help.

I just want to be able to clean my house and take care of my family. I am sometimes too tired to take a shower at night. I know part of it is having a new baby, but we are sleeping pretty good at night.