constipation as a side effect of hypothyroidism

[josydloma]

I am currently taking levothyroxine and cytomel for my hypothyroidism. All my levels are WNL.I still have a big issue with constipation. Does anyone know what is the trigger for regular bowel function T3 or T4? I would like to adjust either one slightly to help regulate myself.

[hope4thegoodstuff]

Am I the only person that is hypo and not constipated.  I get asked that constantly and I never have been.   I'm not trying to make light of it because I know that constipation can be really awful, but most days I'd give money to be even slightly constipated as I am constantly way far in the other direction.  I go...I go often and it's not fun.  

[Totie]

Have you been to a GI doctor?

[josydloma]

Yeah my doctor thinks I might have IBS. With the colace and Miralax things are still moving and I haven't been tested for IBS because I'm already on the treatment for it. I find it hard to believe they both came on at the same time. Oh well.

[Totie]

Sounds like you are doing everything correctly.

Maybe it is a GI problem and not necessairly related to the medication. My doctor sent me to the GI doctor just to be sure because I kept getting constipated, even ended up in ER because of it. I did have a colonoscopy and endooscopy, and everything was okay, but you know YOU NEED TO BE SURE. ..

[mtkst13]

could your t3 be increased at all?  because it sounds like you're doing everything else right.  

have you tried adding coffee and a cigarette to your morning routine...just kidding.;)

i know it's terrible.  i used to be very regular and predictable, but since the hypo, i'm not the same.  

[josydloma]

I am taking 50mcg of levothyroxine in the AM. and 10 of cytomel in the AM and afternoon. I eat a high fiber diet take two Colace tablets at night and have added Miralax daily . I exercise regularly and drink mainly water. I am doing all I can and still I have constant issues. I have never had a problem with constipation until my thyroid went bad. I was THE most regular person.

[Totie]

I had the same problem. My doctor put me on Miralax (sp). It has kept me regular.

[josydloma]

My labs are free T4  1.2
                  free T3   261
                  TSH 0.65

[mtkst13]

by the way.  what are your labs?  and what dose of meds are you taking?

[mtkst13]

i'm not really sure, but based on my experience, i think t3 is more responsible for relieving constipation.

have you tried eating high fiber foods?  or taking over the counter lax?