Can someone tell me what living with hypothyroid is like?

Question

I am going to start taking thyroid medication because I just found out I had a hypothyroid. How does having a thyroid problem affect your life?

Answer 1

Hypothyroidism means your thyroid gland isn't producing enough hormones. People with under active thyroids feel tired all the time, have trouble tolerating cold and often will have high cholesterol and triglycerides levels. People with hypothyroidism often are overweight because their bodies have a hard time metabolizing fats.

Once the proper dosage of the prescribed medication is figured out you'll feel much more energetic and have an easier time maintaining a healthy weight.

Answer 2

Once you start taking Synthroid (or other replacement), it will take a few weeks to start to feel much better. It may take a few tries to get the dose just right for you, but once it's correct you will be living a normal life. You shouldn't have fatigue, temperature intolerance, dry skin, etc...any of the symptoms that you may have been having as a result of being hypo. If the dose is right, you should be feeling fine. I always know my dose needs adjusting when I keep forgetting things and am very tired.

All you need to do is remember to take your pill every morning, the same way every day and you'll be fine! Also, get labs drawn at least once a year to make sure the dose is still correct for you.

Best of luck to you.

Check out these sites for more information:

www.endocrineweb.com

www.thyroid.org

www.thyroidfoundation.com