What Are The Symptoms Of Low Thyroid Levels?

Posted on Sun, 5 Apr 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 5 Apr 2015 Answered on

Mon, 27 Apr 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : What symptons would I have with low thyroid function & protein deficiency? My friend keeps telling me I don't get enough protein & thinks I have thyroid function problems like she has. I'm post menopause & don't always have much energy or ease in losing weight.
I still get a lot of hot & cold sweats too. I have the onset of osteoarthritis too & would like to avoid it getting worse. I don't take HRT

Answered by Dr. Chetna Jain (19 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Weight gain sleepiness

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Weight gain, sleepiness, depression are associated with low thyroid levels.
Low proteins can lead to swelling in body water retention, weight gain.
Energy levels drop with age. A few tests can help . Full blood count, TSH, vit B 12, liver functions, kidney functions, lipids, urine routine microscopy, blood sugars etc.

HRT can make one feel better but has it's own problems. Mental stress is also a cause of low energy
hot and cold sweats take 2-5 yrs to settle down.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Chetna Jain (6 hours later)

Thankyou for your help, I have been post menopause almost four years My FSH level is 79 & it stays at that number (I've had more than one fsh test)
It's good to know what tests to ask for if I do go to the doctor & useful to know about the downside of hrt too.

Answered by Dr. Chetna Jain (35 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
ITests already discussed

Detailed Answer:
you may add a cervical smear and Mamogram to the list. ECG annually at least.
HRT causes marginal increase in chances of breast cancer high BP altered lipids and regular or irregular periods depending upon the regimen chosen. Minor problems like headache nausea may be there.
Useful if there is personal or family history of osteoporosis or if you are at increased risk of the same.
you may take it for a short period of 3-6 months

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar