What is my first step???

iVillage Member
Registered: 08-08-2006
What is my first step???
3
Mon, 07-16-2007 - 10:11am

My mother had her tyroid removed at age 25 and has advised me to have mine checked as well since I am at that age. My regular doctor checked mine 4 years ago and said everything was fine. I have read many articles that doctors overlook thyroid problems and am wondering if I should try a specialist rather then a normal physician? I have recently noticed more hair falling out and read it may be a symptom that something is abnormal with my thyroid, also I am on an anti-depressent (for the last 3 years and before that even) and am on adderral. I have read also about misdiagnosing such symptoms when the tyroid can be to blame. I am not sure what type of doctor to go to and what to ask. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated!
Thanks, Katie

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-01-2006
Mon, 07-16-2007 - 3:44pm
I would think that you could go to your reg. doctor and tell them your family history of thyroid problems and the symptoms you are having now. Ask them to do a blood test again which I believe you would want them to test your TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) T3 and T4. From the results of that they should be able to tell you how your thyroid is functioning. If you do have a thyroid problem some reg. doctors can treat it but in my experience I have always gone to an endocrynologist because they specialize in thyroid problems, however I have the freedom with my insurance (PPO) to go to one w/o needing a referral.
Good Luck! Keep us posted on how you are doing!
Avatar for cl_calley7
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-20-2003
Mon, 07-16-2007 - 4:18pm

Hi Katie,


Welcome to our board.


Since there is a history of thyroid problems in your family, I would suggest that you start by going to your regular doctor again and have your levels checked.

 

Calley7

iVillage Member
Registered: 08-08-2006
Tue, 07-17-2007 - 3:17pm

Thank you so much for all the usefull information. I am making an apointment with my regular physician and will see where it goes from there. Thanks again! Katie