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Going off Synthroid for Basic Training
Hi, I have a dream of becoming a Pararescueman for the US Air Force. I have been taking (generic) Synthroid for about 4 years now but obviously basic training wont allow for me to take my daily meds. So, i know stopping is dangerous, but i really want this and was wondering what kind of effects i might have if I stopped for the 6 weeks of basic then potentially 8 more weeks after that. i am trying to get a hold of my doctor but I am going crazy sitting here waiting for the phone to ring. Any wisdom/advice on the matter would be greatly appreciated.
p.s. the training will be extremely mentally as well as physically demanding
p.s. the training will be extremely mentally as well as physically demanding
COMMUNITY LEADER
"Current hypothyroidism uncontrolled by medication (244) is disqualifying."
The key word in that sentence is "uncontrolled", so what it means is that hypothyroidism IS NOT, automatically, a disqualification for the Army, as long as it's under control, with medication.
A goiter (swollen thyroid) and thyroiditis (inflammation) are disqualifying because those mean the person is most likely, actively, ill.
The key word in that sentence is "uncontrolled", so what it means is that hypothyroidism IS NOT, automatically, a disqualification for the Army, as long as it's under control, with medication.
A goiter (swollen thyroid) and thyroiditis (inflammation) are disqualifying because those mean the person is most likely, actively, ill.
3 Comments
I’m just a little confused as long as you’re on your meds and it’s controlled you got a good chance to get in?
I’m just a little confused as long as you’re on your meds and it’s controlled you got a good chance to get in?
Markcruz1... this is a very old thread and the military may have changed policies over the years since this thread, and those guidelines, were posted. If you want to get into the military, and have any type of condition that may be disqualifying, you should check with the recruiters and be up front about all your conditions and the medications you take. If caught lying the consequences would be worse than not being rejected in the first place - at least, to me, they would be...
That said, just to explain a bit about the thyroid... the thyroid controls several body processes - heart rate, metabolism, body temperature, etc. In order to perform well, these body processes must be in optimal condition.
Thyroid conditions are some of those that can be under control this week and out of control next week, due to changes within and/or demands placed on the body from day to day. Physical or emotional demands during military training and/or exercises, deployment, etc can be excruciating. When our thyroid is working normally, it produces hormones "on demand", meaning, when we need them, according to what's going on in our life; however, when our thyroid doesn't work, we are dependent on that daily dose of medication. If something happens to interrupt the flow of medication or if, for some reason, the demands on our body are greater than our dosage of medication allows, symptoms of hypothyroidism will begin to appear, such as weight gain, constipation, low heart rate, cold intolerance, etc.
In addition, military medical care is not as flexible as civilian medical care and from what we've heard from other members, the only medication prescribed in the military is T4 (Synthroid/Levothyroxine). If one needs a T3 medication in order to obtain optimal levels of Free T4 and Free T3, they are unlikely to get it, which often leaves patients in a state of long standing illness, with symptoms that never seem to be relieved.
I don't tell you these things to try to discourage anyone from pursuing a dream. I tell you because I think it's important that everyone might better understand "why" hypothyroidism could be a disqualifying condition and is realistic about their choices. The people you talk to (recruiters), most likely, don't even know all these things... they can simply tell you whether or not your condition will disqualify you. The possibility may also exists that one area of the military may be acceptable while another is not... it never hurts to check out the options.
This isn't to say that people with hypothyroidism can't live a normal life, because we, most certainly can; it's just that certain professions may not be, totally, realistic for us, just like they aren't totally realistic for those with diabetes or other conditions.
For anyone who already has a thyroid condition and gets into the military, I wish you all the very best.
That said, just to explain a bit about the thyroid... the thyroid controls several body processes - heart rate, metabolism, body temperature, etc. In order to perform well, these body processes must be in optimal condition.
Thyroid conditions are some of those that can be under control this week and out of control next week, due to changes within and/or demands placed on the body from day to day. Physical or emotional demands during military training and/or exercises, deployment, etc can be excruciating. When our thyroid is working normally, it produces hormones "on demand", meaning, when we need them, according to what's going on in our life; however, when our thyroid doesn't work, we are dependent on that daily dose of medication. If something happens to interrupt the flow of medication or if, for some reason, the demands on our body are greater than our dosage of medication allows, symptoms of hypothyroidism will begin to appear, such as weight gain, constipation, low heart rate, cold intolerance, etc.
In addition, military medical care is not as flexible as civilian medical care and from what we've heard from other members, the only medication prescribed in the military is T4 (Synthroid/Levothyroxine). If one needs a T3 medication in order to obtain optimal levels of Free T4 and Free T3, they are unlikely to get it, which often leaves patients in a state of long standing illness, with symptoms that never seem to be relieved.
I don't tell you these things to try to discourage anyone from pursuing a dream. I tell you because I think it's important that everyone might better understand "why" hypothyroidism could be a disqualifying condition and is realistic about their choices. The people you talk to (recruiters), most likely, don't even know all these things... they can simply tell you whether or not your condition will disqualify you. The possibility may also exists that one area of the military may be acceptable while another is not... it never hurts to check out the options.
This isn't to say that people with hypothyroidism can't live a normal life, because we, most certainly can; it's just that certain professions may not be, totally, realistic for us, just like they aren't totally realistic for those with diabetes or other conditions.
For anyone who already has a thyroid condition and gets into the military, I wish you all the very best.
I know this thread is a little late but, I've had hypothyroidism for 10 years and didn't take any meds for 5 years, simply because I had no symptoms and didn't think I needed the meds. I still feel like I don't need any meds today. I work and exercise every day with no problem. It puzzles me why hypothyrodism is a disqualification in the army.
COMMUNITY LEADER
pjwannabe hasn't posted since this thread, in 2010, so it's unlikely that you'll get a response.
What is your update now?? Did you end up getting in?
Thanks a ton guys I will post any updates =]
COMMUNITY LEADER
I believe and I'll be praying for you.............
Here's the deal pj...be up front about it on entry paperwork. You don't means you lied and cause for discharge or worse. If they DO accept you with thyroid issues, then most likely you wouldn't have the med withheld during your initial active duty training...basic training and the technical school training.
At basic they DO go through to see if folks are on any meds they can NOT do without. Recruiters won't tell you every detail, so take heed. Doesn't mean they lied, just didn't tell extra.
Good luck and let us know how things work for you!
At basic they DO go through to see if folks are on any meds they can NOT do without. Recruiters won't tell you every detail, so take heed. Doesn't mean they lied, just didn't tell extra.
Good luck and let us know how things work for you!
You do not sound harsh I really appreciate your honesty. I guess I didn't fully understand the part about it being controlled. I think it will be near impossible to get everything in working order but i have had no definite "no's" from anyone who has the power to tell me no. I am willing to start the process of getting in no matter what it takes. I figure worse case scenario they say no but I need to at least say I tried. I hope I do not sound heard-headed on the matter i am taking in everyones advice and you all probably saved me from lying to the Air Force to get in then staying off my meds for 14 weeks so thank you very much for that. I talk with the recruiter Monday =]
Barb I am sorry to hear about your son I am beginning to understand a little of how bummed he must have been, and thank you for the luck. Any one who believes it i would appreciate prayer as well
Barb I am sorry to hear about your son I am beginning to understand a little of how bummed he must have been, and thank you for the luck. Any one who believes it i would appreciate prayer as well
COMMUNITY LEADER
I understand that this is a dream that you have apparently had for some time, but there are times when we have to let practicality rule and I'm happy to hear that you have decided to check for an alternative.
My son's dream was to become a pilot in the Air Force; however, he has type I diabetes, so can be neither a pilot, nor in the Air Force. I wish you better of luck.
Please let us know what you find out from the recruiter.
My son's dream was to become a pilot in the Air Force; however, he has type I diabetes, so can be neither a pilot, nor in the Air Force. I wish you better of luck.
Please let us know what you find out from the recruiter.
My apologies if I sound harsh. I do realize you're excited about the prospect of pursuing a dream.
Did you read the quoted material? "Current hypothyroidism uncontrolled by medication (244) is disqualifying. " The key word is "uncontrolled". Meaning, IF yours IS controlled then it's not automatically disqualifying. However, most likely still they'll want to see that it is documented at being controlled.
Either way...do you want it enough to go through what is ahead of you and that's merely to even get in? I've been working on mine for over six months now and it's not even a thyroid matter!
Either way...do you want it enough to go through what is ahead of you and that's merely to even get in? I've been working on mine for over six months now and it's not even a thyroid matter!
Well I am convinced that going off of it is not good. I am going in to talk to the recruiter today to see if such an alternative exists
COMMUNITY LEADER
I don't understand your question. Stopping and starting thyroid med ("waivering") is never a good idea; that's one of the main things that keep people sick. You have to be consistent in taking the med or you won't feel optimal.
I understand that you want this training badly, but there must be an alternative to stopping the med that is basically keeping you alive.
I understand that you want this training badly, but there must be an alternative to stopping the med that is basically keeping you alive.
So once you are stabilized then it is waiverable?
Thanks again for everyones time in responding
Thanks again for everyones time in responding
COMMUNITY LEADER
I agree with everyone who said "don't do it" -- you need those hormones and if you don't get them, it won't be long and you will be feeling poorly - fatigued, constipated, gaining weight, sore muscles/joints, etc; all symptoms which may very well cause you to not be able to make it through the training anyway. I know I'd sure never make it 14 weeks without my med(s).
You would be "playing" with your health, which is never a good idea; not to mention that it may be much harder to get restabilized after you get through the training.
You would be "playing" with your health, which is never a good idea; not to mention that it may be much harder to get restabilized after you get through the training.
Sorry...should have said. Am a Veteran of the US Army and the US Army Reserves. Currently trying to enlist back into the Reserves but needing a Medical Waiver due to Osteoarthritis. Of course, if turns out I really DO have a thyroid issue that will change everything since it wouldn't be "stable"...yet.
Look, it's really simple. There are Dept of Defense standards about physical condition for enlistment. Then each service has their own rules as well.
Here's the information - let me tell you that it is NOT all that easy to obtain a Medical Waiver to enlist. Not impossible, just plan on every thing taking longer and getting copies of your medical records, etc.
The causes for rejection for appointment, enlistment, and induction (without an approved waiver) are an authenticated history of:
Current or history of adrenal dysfunction (255) is disqualifying.
Current or history of diabetes mellitus (250) is disqualifying.
Current persistent glycosuria when associated with impaired glucose tolerance (250) or renal tubular defects (271.4) is disqualifying.
Current or history of acromegaly, including, but not limited to gigantism or other disorders of pituitary function (253), is disqualifying.
Current or history of gout (274) is disqualifying.
Current or history of hyperinsulinism (251.1) is disqualifying.
Current or history of hyperparathyroidism (252.0) and hypoparathyroidism (252.1) is disqualifying.
Thyroid disorders.
Current goiter (240) is disqualifying.
Current hypothyroidism uncontrolled by medication (244) is disqualifying.
Current or history of hyperthyroidism (242.9) is disqualifying.
Current thyroiditis (245) is disqualifying.
Misc. Conditions.
Current nutritional deficiency diseases, including, but not limited to beriberi (265), pellagra (265.2), and scurvy (267) are disqualifying.
Other endocrine or metabolic disorders such as cystic fibrosis (277), porphyria (277.1), and amyloidosis (277.3) that obviously prevent satisfactory performance of duty or require frequent or prolonged treatment are disqualifying.
Derived from Department of Defense (DOD) Directive 6130.3, "Physical Standards for Appointment, Enlistment, and Induction," and DOD Instruction 6130.4, "Criteria and Procedure Requirements for Physical Standards for Appointment, Enlistment, or Induction in the Armed Forces."
Here's the information - let me tell you that it is NOT all that easy to obtain a Medical Waiver to enlist. Not impossible, just plan on every thing taking longer and getting copies of your medical records, etc.
The causes for rejection for appointment, enlistment, and induction (without an approved waiver) are an authenticated history of:
Current or history of adrenal dysfunction (255) is disqualifying.
Current or history of diabetes mellitus (250) is disqualifying.
Current persistent glycosuria when associated with impaired glucose tolerance (250) or renal tubular defects (271.4) is disqualifying.
Current or history of acromegaly, including, but not limited to gigantism or other disorders of pituitary function (253), is disqualifying.
Current or history of gout (274) is disqualifying.
Current or history of hyperinsulinism (251.1) is disqualifying.
Current or history of hyperparathyroidism (252.0) and hypoparathyroidism (252.1) is disqualifying.
Thyroid disorders.
Current goiter (240) is disqualifying.
Current hypothyroidism uncontrolled by medication (244) is disqualifying.
Current or history of hyperthyroidism (242.9) is disqualifying.
Current thyroiditis (245) is disqualifying.
Misc. Conditions.
Current nutritional deficiency diseases, including, but not limited to beriberi (265), pellagra (265.2), and scurvy (267) are disqualifying.
Other endocrine or metabolic disorders such as cystic fibrosis (277), porphyria (277.1), and amyloidosis (277.3) that obviously prevent satisfactory performance of duty or require frequent or prolonged treatment are disqualifying.
Derived from Department of Defense (DOD) Directive 6130.3, "Physical Standards for Appointment, Enlistment, and Induction," and DOD Instruction 6130.4, "Criteria and Procedure Requirements for Physical Standards for Appointment, Enlistment, or Induction in the Armed Forces."
What????? How do i get one of those???? The recruiter never said anything about that!
You will be able to participate in your Military training phase with a PROFILE provided by the medical unit. The profile is a temporary waiver that allows you to maintain your medical/health requirements!
Good luck!
Good luck!
Its just not a good idea. The longer you've had it and the higher med dose , the harder it is to live without it. And then to push your self.......ah, no thanks. Nothing to replicate hormone replacement , sorry.
Read about entry and med conditions online. Its touchy about metabolic conditions.
I agree, I am going to go talk to the recruiter again but who knows how honest he will be. thanks
Ohhhhh ok, What a shame when its something you really want. People responding well to treatment should be allowed to live like everyone who has no health probs..That ***** but our Government does suck anyway lol..I wish you luck then..Personally i dont know of another way for it to work for you with out meds but Lazymoose might..
well heres the thing, i have to say i dont have hypothyroidism because they wont let me in so i cant be taking meds for something i dont have. my page didnt refresh thanks everyone else who responded =]
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