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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Suggest Treatment For Depression And Fatigue While Suffering From Hypothyroidism

Hi Doctor, I have recently been experiencing a few major symptoms of hypothyroidism. Severe depression and fatigue, even if I sleep 9 or 10 hours, very heavy and long periods (my last one was 8 days the one before that was 14 days). I also am very sensitive to the cold- my fingers go completely white and my lips go blue and I get very very cold. My grandmother has very severe hypothyroidism and had to take the 400mg medication when she first went on it. I want to get my thyroid checked as these symptoms are causing real problems for me. The only thing is that I am on the Birth control pill and the symptoms seem much better on the week I have my period (and am taking inactive pills), I am much more clearheaded and feel much less depressed and exhausted. Does this mean it is not a problem with my thyroid? Should I still get it checked? I am struggling because I am overseas in France and so it is difficult to see a doctor because I do not speak French yet. Hope you can help me.
Thu, 27 Jul 2017
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Endocrinologist,  's  Response
Hello
I have gone through your question and understood your concern.

It is true,you have some major symptoms of hypothyroidism and for this reason i suggest to do the thyroid function tests (TSH,T3 and T4)

At the other side you should know that the birth control pills can result in mood changes and depression.So apart the thyroid gland even this hormones can contribute to your actual severe depression.

I can say that Estrogens in birth control pills directly affects the thyroid by thwarting its ability to produce thyroid hormones and this is the cause why during the time when you take the inactive pills you have less hypothyroid related symtoms.

This do not mean that you don't have a problem with your thyroid.As i said, you should check your thyroid function.This is very important to understand your actual thyroid situation and than to start the thyroid hormone replacement (THRT)therapy if this will be necessary.

My advice for you is to find a way to consult a knowledgeable physician who understands the complex relationship between estrogen and thyroid hormones because you may need THRT and it is very important for you to monitor your thyroid levels and and adjust your dosage accordingly.(according to the American Thyroid Association.)

THRT is the best treatement for depression and fatigue while suffering from hypothyroidism.

Hope i have answered to all your questions.
If you have other doubts,feel free and ask.I will be happy to help.
Regards.


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Suggest Treatment For Depression And Fatigue While Suffering From Hypothyroidism

Hello I have gone through your question and understood your concern. It is true,you have some major symptoms of hypothyroidism and for this reason i suggest to do the thyroid function tests (TSH,T3 and T4) At the other side you should know that the birth control pills can result in mood changes and depression.So apart the thyroid gland even this hormones can contribute to your actual severe depression. I can say that Estrogens in birth control pills directly affects the thyroid by thwarting its ability to produce thyroid hormones and this is the cause why during the time when you take the inactive pills you have less hypothyroid related symtoms. This do not mean that you don t have a problem with your thyroid.As i said, you should check your thyroid function.This is very important to understand your actual thyroid situation and than to start the thyroid hormone replacement (THRT)therapy if this will be necessary. My advice for you is to find a way to consult a knowledgeable physician who understands the complex relationship between estrogen and thyroid hormones because you may need THRT and it is very important for you to monitor your thyroid levels and and adjust your dosage accordingly.(according to the American Thyroid Association.) THRT is the best treatement for depression and fatigue while suffering from hypothyroidism. Hope i have answered to all your questions. If you have other doubts,feel free and ask.I will be happy to help. Regards.