I'm male and 34. In 1999, when I was extremely robust, I participated in a smallpox vaccine study which made me VERY acutely ill (likely response to vaccinia virus transporter). My health starting going downhill in every way afterwards, but in a very slow progression. I found that I needed to take sick days like never before, for things running the gamut of fatigue, severe constipation, internal pain in joints, headaches, and general malaise. Over a few years I exhibited depressive behavior, which became a bigger part of my life and included some hypomanic cycles. I gained 50 lbs and noticed my enlarged neckline, became frustrated with forgetfulness and lack of mental focus. Like a Dumb Male, I ignored this symptom set until I finally sought help for depression and libido loss 1 yr ago, after (ironically) meeting (and now married to) a psychologist who could put together these issues. One thing led to another, and I've just received a solid diagnosis of Hashi, but my pituitary is suspect and I get an MRI for that tomorrow. Now that I am learning of its probable autoimmune origin, you can probably guess that I am curious about my unscientific tie-in of this smallpox vacc to my hypothyroid condition. There have not been studies on this I am sure (sample size still small) but I am wondering if there is any data regarding earlier disease affliction or response to later HT problems. Thanks very much. Here are my numbers: Testo, Total 201; Testo, Free 47; TSH 5.85; Anti-TPO 43; T4 1.0; LH 2.0; FSH 3.3; also slightly elevated lvls for glucose, bun/creat, total choles, HDL (low).