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What Has To Be Done For Extreme Weight Gain In Hypothyroidism?
I have been dealing with Graves Disease for the past 18 months. First 12 of these I was undiagnosed/misdiagnosed. During this time I have gained 50 pounds, and felt more horrible than I have ever felt in my life. I have done everything I can think of to lose the weight, but nothing helps. I ve worked with a nutritionist, joined weight watchers, walk daily and eat a very healthy diet. My current Dr. is pushing for RAI ablation. I have many fears regarding this route. End result is hypothyroidism - which causes WEIGHT GAIN!!! Currently on 60 mg Cymbalta, 15 mg methimazole. I am 57 years old and feel closer to 90 years old. What can possibly be done about the extreme weight gain? I am still gaining. I feel horrible about my appearance and it s not helping with the depression.
posted on
Mon, 24 Mar 2014
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Thu, 31 Mar 2016
Answered on
Fri, 1 Apr 2016
Last reviewed on
Hello,
I carefully read your concern and I can understand your situation.
In general the overproduction of the thyroid hormones increases the metabolism rate and causes weight loss, your case is a bit particular.
After 12-18 months treatment with oral medications for hyperthyroidism, a definite treatment is recommended i.e: surgery or radioactive iodine.
You do not have to be concerned of hypothyroidism that may cause radioactive iodine because it can be easily corrected with levothyroxine.
Women during the period of menopause have a tendency to put on weight.
So if you were a patient in my clinic I would also suggest you a definite treatment for Graves' disease and do some more physical activity.
Wishing you good health.
Kind regards,
Dr.M.Guni
I carefully read your concern and I can understand your situation.
In general the overproduction of the thyroid hormones increases the metabolism rate and causes weight loss, your case is a bit particular.
After 12-18 months treatment with oral medications for hyperthyroidism, a definite treatment is recommended i.e: surgery or radioactive iodine.
You do not have to be concerned of hypothyroidism that may cause radioactive iodine because it can be easily corrected with levothyroxine.
Women during the period of menopause have a tendency to put on weight.
So if you were a patient in my clinic I would also suggest you a definite treatment for Graves' disease and do some more physical activity.
Wishing you good health.
Kind regards,
Dr.M.Guni
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