When should you see a Dr?

[becky808]

I've had problems my whole life that make Drs suspect I have hypothyroidism. It also runs in my family. I get a blood test done about once every 2-3 years. 4 years ago I had an ultrasound - there were no nodules. My thyroid was a little crooked (like twisted to the side) but appeared to be functioning fine. 3 years ago I had a baby, had bad insomnia and was tested again. It was on the high side of normal, but OK.

My question is: If I already had an ultrasound, and my blood levels are always normal, do I keep going back when things don't seem right? It's always low, but not low enough.

I have even more problems now that I've never had before (now being in the last 6 months or so). I've always been sluggish and tired, have dry skin, and thinning hair. Now I'm having digestive problems, no period for months, and now my nails are all broken. They all broke off yesterday when I grabbed an empty garbage bag. Plastic broke my nails off. I also have all over aches and stiffness. I'm embarrassed to keep going to my Dr though and always hear "it's within the normal range". Should I just forget about it? Are there any natural ways to increase thyroid function?

Thanks.

[PPhelps]

Go to the health pages upper right corner of the screen. There is all kinds of info there on the different kinds of tests.

[becky808]

Thanks for your reply. Do you know which tests are done for hashimotos/graves? Perhaps I should see a different Dr. I can see all my test results online. In reviewing my lab history, they tested my TSH level which was normal. Nothing else has been tested since 2005.

[PPhelps]

If I wouldn't have went to endocrinologist myself last month I wouldn't have been DX with Hashimoto's until my thyroid was damaged enough to make my TSH number go hypo.
I have the same symptoms as you, but I have terrible constipation. If your insurance don't require you to have a referral go see an endocrinologist. If your insurance does require a referral. Talk to your doctor about blood test for Hashimoto's/Graves. And always ask for your results when you go for labs. They will ask you if any other doctor get a copy. Ask for one for yourself so you can see the results yourself, and then you can post your results, and the more knowledgable ladies here can help you.