Leslie writes to metabolism.com about the effect hypothyroidism has had on her life, her energy and her weight. Her experience raises the notion that her metabolic problems may not be totally resolved despite what appears to be an adequately low TSH level while on Armour thyroid.
Leslie writes:
I am at a total loss as to how to loose weight! Five years ago, I became chronically fatigued, and had lots of other symptoms that led me to believe that I was hypothyroid. My Dr. tested me, and declared that I was not, and suggested that I should excersise more. My symptoms continued, and I began to gain weight at an alarming rate. I went back several times, presenting with hypothryroid symptoms, and he finally admitted that I was “borderline hypo with a TSH over 5″ but “we don’t treat that.†I lived the next two years with debilitating symptoms and weight gain that I simply could not control with diet and excersise. By the time I found a doctor who was willing to treat me, I had gained over 50 pounds and had developed fibromyalia as well. Even then, it was difficult to get treatment – but finally he relented. Now my TSH is below 1, and my fatigue is not quite so so debilitating, however my weight loss efforts are dismal. I know that my metabolism is very slow – because my temp. in the morning is usually under 96. I’ve been on Adkins for six months now – keeping my carbs under 20 grams a day, and relying on lots of fiber to keep me from being terribly hungry – but I’ve only managed to lose about 13 lbs. I know there has to be help for me, but I just don’t know what to do. Five and a half short years ago I weighed 140 lbs, had energy to burn and felt great, and looked pretty good too!. Now I weigh 180 lbs, live with chronic pain, and fatigue, and I’m unable to work. I’ve done a huge amount of research into hypothyroid and all the problems it causes – and bringing my TSH down has brought my glucose, triglicerides and cholesterol down, but not my weight. I am fearful of developing diabeties and really need help. I take Armour Thyroid, which has been much better for me than Synthroid was, but still – I am startled and upset when I see a picture of myself – looking fat and puffy instead of toned and slim. Please help me!
