Wow it is sooo wonderful to hear this from a Dr. Thank you so much for being on board with the ITT Campaign.I am one of those desperately ill on T4 meds with absolutely no joy from my GPAfter years of suffering and feeling like I was dying I was given a book from a friend... There started my quest for knowledge.I was horrified with what I discovered my Dr wasn't telling me.I now buy NDT from abroad (not without its own worries as unregulated) but worth the risk as I have a life back.Thank you so much.You have made a lot of people very happy and optimistic!
I am so pleased to hear someone from the medical profession telling it like it is. My T3 was stopped at the end of 2015 by my CCG, I had been taking T4/T3 combo for 7 years and feeling well. Prior to that I was on T4 only for many years and felt awful. It was really distresssing when my T3 was stopped abruptly by my GP. I wrote to my GP, the CCG and also went to my MP with a file full of information about the benefits of T3 (for some patients), but I got nowhere. They wouldn't accept the DIO2 test that proved I don't convert T4 to T3. I felt completely let down, depressed and frightened. I have since been buying my own T3/NDT and have been managing my own condition for over two years. An NHS Endocrinologist was happy to monitor my health as long as I bought it myself, but having completely lost faith in the NHS I shall continue to go it alone.
This is fascinating! I've been hypo since the age of 14 (now 39) and I think because I was so young I believed what I was told; we replace the missing hormone any everything is hunkydory. So when I fall asleep at 8.30pm I've been telling myself "everyone gets tired, it's not your thyroid". My TSH has been up and down through the years and now I'm on what I believe is a fairly high dose of 225mcg but I'm still symptomatic. I was diagnosed with depression in my early 20's, brain fog is a big problem as is lethargy and weight gain. I'm so desperate to feel normal! My GP believes it's depression, you've inspired me to dig deeper!
Kat Lines Oh my goodness Kat that is a big dose. You may certainly feel better on a lower dose of T4 with some T3. Please push for an endocrinologist and have this conversation. If this VLOG helps one person feel better I will be happy. R
That is the trouble Kat, we all tend to believe what we are told! I reckon I had symptoms growing up was 19 when I saw a specialist with goitre. Two years of blood tests. He couldn't make his mind up so dismissed me. Took ten years to get diagnosed and then spent 20 years trying o make t4 work increasing up to 225, decreasing to 175...up and down, whilst getting increasingly ill, Endo was limited help, for short time. I had to give up my job. Was told depression and made to feel somatic. Non-diagnosis and T4 destroyed decades of my life. T3 changed my life, Gave me life. Fight for it. Join ITT
A campaign to Improve Thyroid Treatment for us all. Check out the ITT Facebook page and group and Twitter - itt_campaign. The campaign is hoping to harness the power of social media, bringing people together to stand and fight for the right to better health. ITT is fighting to have all treatment options available to suit the individual. There is a petition with over 5000 signatures in just two weeks.
This is fabulous. My GP has pretty much refused to test anything other than TSH and T4 because they are "within range". So I've paid to have a complete thyroid panel (plus a few extras like B12, folate etc) and am waiting for the results. Not that my GP will do anything with them but at least i can use them as leverage to see an endocrinologist (hopefully the one who is T3 friendly will be on duty). Having no thyroid sucks.
That is what I'm going to do, private bloods, and compare notes, they keep saying to me it takes time with some people to get in range, I'm so fed up,I feel like ive lost my life, had radiation iodine, but wasn't even told what I would feel like.. and she said they want send me back to endro Im just one of those that cant get it in range, its like a yo yo. .feel like coming of levo all together..
This is a brilliant video! I've just completed 2x lengthy online health and nutrition courses, and considering its vital importance relating to overall metabolism, the thyroid wasn't even worthy of discussion! I've learnt more from watching these kinds of videos. Thank you for sharing your story and enlightening us.
What an amazing video! Thank you so much for sharing your story Dr Renee as it validates so many people with this problem. My beautiful daughter is suffering so much atm, she's just turned 25 and has not been able to work for 2 years now and feels utterly hopeless and has little hope of ever getting better. She's on 50mg Levothyroxine and has never felt any better despite 'normal' blood tests. Her gp has now diagnosed her with ME/cfs as well but has offered nothing further to help. I have searched the internet (what else am I to do) and have found Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) which she is now taking through a private prescription...thank goodness it's quite inexpensive as we have quite a low income. But so far still no improvement. The only change is she appears to be achieving deep sleep (she's a long time insomniac) as she says she 'disappears' for a while, but still has no refreshment from sleep. So, after watching your video I have a new line of enquiry but I'm scared...what if it is T3 that she needs and we can't get it for her. Here we go again, wish us luck!
Denise Geake Hello Denise. Thank you for your lovely comments. I'm sorry to hear about your daughter. I am sure my mum worries like this about me. I am not sure how Naltrexone would work and wouldn't recommend it. Try Anne get some bloods that include free T4. Good luck. Renée
Dr Renee thank you, yes she needs another chat with her gp about the T3 and her bloods done again. Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) is different from 'just' Naltrexone and has been used for 30 odd years for many conditions yet it seems to be kept a secret. It's crazy!! It's a similar story to the T3. Please have a look at these videos, I've put the first one on, not because it's particularly good, but to validate the drug from a well known UK dr Chris Steel (used to be on This Morning) and I'll put some better ones below (or above...however this works haha). Sorry to fling all these things at you but as you're a dr and a blogger I couldn't miss this opportunity for you to see this brilliant drug...even though it's not helping my daughter, some people have had life changing results from it, just like you did from the T3.
Yes, Im thinking of getting LDN as I was diagnosed with ME and also fibromyalgia eleven years ago. It's supposed to help with these and also Ive now just received my blood tests back showing high TSH and low free T4. Im getting further bloods tested (privately as I need full tests doing) Ive suspected thyroid problems for a while to add to my list. I think you can get LDN on prescription if your doctor allows it but I think its up to individual gps I beleive. I need to find out again
Thank you for this vid, great to hear a Brit regarding this topic, it's a real shame we can't get what we need from our NHS, frustrating when you watch all the US info on here, where they can just ask their docs for tests and treatments, and all the info on dietary issues, our docs don't even mention diet at all. Although the expense is an issue in either country. I've been ill on and off for years with hypo since having my first child who is now 24. I'm on Thyroxine and it has been a nightmare, every time a new dr comes to the surgery, they do a new blood test and put my Thyroxine med down because the blood tests 'say so'. It always puts me into a medical spiral, cold hands and feet, tingling, mouth ulcers, cold sores, acne, psoriasis, dry skin, low mood, palpatations, irritability, etc why can't they look beyond the bloods, they don't even ask how you are, they just adjust you meds. When you go back to complain the dose isn't working, they just say well your bloods are 'fine' you're on the right dose. No information at all they treat us like children who can't understand anything least of all medical terminology. No, I'm not fine I having all the symptoms again. They can't understand you may need the dose you've had for 20yrs. That your body was working fine with it. I've had this up down yoyo every time. I'm not even asking for T3 just not to be messed about constantly with every different GP. Although the option would be great. I asked about that when I came back from the states 20 years ago and was very quickly put down, "we don't do that here, have you been reading medical books" as though it was unforgivable I should want to inform myself on the condition I had. Crazy. I'm glad to say things have changed a little since then. The Scottish parliament has a petition, great, do I need to move to Scotland? If this were a male dominated complaint do you think it would receive more attention? Also going through the menopause at the mo and that is playing havoc with bells on. Hormone hell. Trying diet tips but there's a lot of conflicting advice on here. Thanks and good luck to everyone out there struggling with this.
Thank you so much for this Dr! It takes guts to speak the truth when all around you are burying their heads. I have a petition in the Scottish Parliament, been going almost five years now. If any disgruntled thyroid patients wish to make their feelings known, they can email the petitions committee there in support at petitions@parliament.scot www.parliament.scot/GettingInvolved/Petitions/PE01463
You're the Doctor on Radio London !...Im taking T4 and still ill nearly , for 3 years now.....Im just Sick Of being Sick for about 50% of my life ...Thankyou..Its so good to hear you explain it so I can actually understand it!...I'm having more blood tests next week because of migraines and my thyroid...which they say is 'now normal !...I'll be asking about my T3...
I cried when I watched this. A doctor actually validating what we have said for so long. And also that thyroxine can stop working, and you need T3 medication, which is what happened to me. So I'm not going mad then!?! Yay!!
Hi Tara. I find that so humbling. You are definitely not going mad I am not mad. I cannot function on T4 alone. If I could post a picture in here of me on T4 alone I would and you would be shocked. Not pretty... I was fine for 5 years on T4 and then during a period of intense stress I stopped converting. Fortunately I had an endocrinologist who realised what was going on and stepped outside of the guidelines and added T3. x
Oh goodness I was so startled to have a reply! I've never written on TH-cam before. Thank you so much! A large minority of people are really starting to fight back, but it sure is a fight. I'm on the case, with the NHS consultation, ITT campaign, Patients Association, National Voices, Morningside Healthcare (the newly licensed T3 manufacturer), CCG. And Thyroid UK have probably got me involved with a film on this!! I just cannot go back to the shell of a person I was for 2 years. I'd been pretty good on T4 for 25 years, then wham I was housebound. So very ill. My T3 is now from Greece, but it will run out after a few months. and I'm scared. Like lots of other people. It's so wrong. Thank you again!
Tara Riddle Ah it's my pleasure. And trust me, I am with you on this fight. It's a travesty. The NHS spends almost a billion pounds a year on paracetamol; a cheap, easy to buy drug that does not require a prescription. And yet T3 which is not available over the counter, can only be prescribed and is recognised by NHSE as "clinically effective" is denied so many people and yet costs the NHS far less than paracetamol. And let's not forget that as a Gp I am also prescribing gluten free bread, sun cream, E45 for nothing more than dry skin, ibuprofen, dry eye drops... the list is endless. But many GP's can't prescribe a drug that works, stops people from being unable to function in society and is only available on script. This is a fight that needs fighting. And fight I will. R
Dr Renee, the T3 fight continues!! The ITT girls are doing an amazing job. My MP (was Govt under secretary of state for life sciences) is very concerned and anxious to help. He really wants 'confirmation' from some clinicians to say that T3 is safe, effective and necessary for some patients. Dare I ask if you would be willing for your name to go to him? Or would you know any other clinicians who would do this? I can contact you privately perhaps via your clinic. I hesitate to put my details publicly on here. Wasn't sure whether to post this or not...!
Hi Tara. I saw my MP Mike Freer about it yesterday. He has written to Jeremy Hunt for me twice! He has asked for this which is from the BTA and states that the NHS are clearly looking at withdrawing T3 purely on cost. They also say that they accept for some patients it is necessary. So hopefully this will help: www.british-thyroid-association.org/sandbox/bta2016/information_for_endocrinologists.pdf Yes of course you can use my name but I am GP not an endocrinologist. However, Dr Rina Davidson, the Consultant Endocrinologist who started me on T3 has said she would give quotes if asked. So by all means. R x
I am crying as I hear you T4 started to not work for me for the past 5 years I had symptoms and I never got anywhere with my doctors. It is all stress,depression, over eating ,keep away from the sweets and carbs which surprisingly as I read before a way my body telling me I need energy I am not getting any! I discussed T3 with my doctor but she put me on a slightly lower T4 on alternative days still I do not feel good. I wish you were my doctor
r.elnazer ah I'm sorry. Didn't mean to make you cry. Go back to your GP, ask for an endocrinologist referral. Don't give up. Petition your MP and do the NHSE consultation survey. Every person engaging makes success in getting T3 added to the guidelines more likely. Good luck.
I've been on Levothyroxine for 7 years and lost my thyroid by getting radiation idiot and still get heart racing and headaches and I have change the way I eat and I am hypo thank you for this advice.
T3 has pretty much saved my life. My gp won't supply me any. It's good to talk out about it as we all need to raise awareness! So many people especially women are desperate to get it, or keep it!
Ebony N J Gordon ask for an endo referral. Also do complete the NHS consultation at the bottom of this video In description as the more the better impact. Good luck.
A reassuring Vlog. Thank you so much Dr Renee. You are so brave. To know that there are Dr's out there who are understanding and can relate to us, with this condition. So where are the other GP's, Endo;s etc who agree with this. Can they not stand with us to help us effect the changes in the protocols we need. I get so cross when I hear of GP's and Endo's getting angry with patients for daring to suggest T3. Why do they feel the need to react like this? I'm guessing it is 'guilt'. They know they are failing us and know it is wrong. It is very unprofessional of them. Very arrogant!
Thanks Ursula. I think my colleagues who haven't been through it and who rely on the guidelines would use the 'no evidence' argument. Sadly for those of us who have been through, evidence is irrelevant because we have our own real evidence. I can't answer for the reports of doctors getting angry. ? reaction to be challenged. I don't know but there is no excuse and the guidelines need to change. Thanks for your lovely comments and support.
Ive been told by an endocrinologist (while under her care) that T3 is only prescribed to a cancer patients.... I wanted to get a prescription to start taking it but that's what I was left with....
ElooniaEloonia Hi. That's not true I'm afraid. There are no guidelines around T3 prescribing so no protocols stating cancer patients only. And frankly, if your thyroid doesn't work properly/at all, the reason is irrelevant. Ask again, I would. R
Hi thanks for the video.I am male with Hashmotos. Witch I had private blootest to find out.Was felling bad for 2 years all like dizzy, headaches, hart paptation, cold , seen 3 Doctor no help so I study a bit about Hashmotos went gluten free lot of Simtons went with in a week and 80% better and that's all it took.I even ask a doctor if I went gluten free would it help he said no.So when I went back to doctor told them I feel 80% better because of been gluten free he said you must have a leaky gut.And when I try to show him my private blood test did not look and I said I have Hashmotos he said well you still take the same medication. And when some people in UK Thyroid web site seen my blood test of doctor and private ones said I need to have my thyroid scanned because of how bad my blood tests was .
Hi Gary. Im sorry that you have had a rough time. It does sound like you may have had more than one issue going on but also like you have at least sorted the Gluten intolerance. I would suggest that if you are still having problems or would like a thyroid scan, you should see your GP again and ask. Good luck.
Thanks so much for info Dr Renee. I had a TT 6 yrs ago and never felt right with high tsh. Finally I sourced/self medicated with t3 in Feb and told my gp in June who got nervous even tho I felt better and my tsh look much better so she referred me to an endo...he's happy to prescribe t3 although I don't think mp brand is as good as Greek! Can you please add the petition link ?
hln1969 Hi. That's great news. If you go to the info under the video the petition is there along with NHS England consultation on withdrawing T3, that's worth competing to and doesn't take too long. Let me know if you don't find it. R
So interesting ... I've tried to see what Canadian standards are in relation to T3 ... I think it IS available but possibly not easily ... prescription drugs are not covered by our universal healthcare here but it looks to be available OTC .....some ppl opt to try 'desiccated thyroid' meds - an animal byproduct I think?
Very helpful video. I have had hashimotos for about 4 years and I'm on levothyroxine. I had a large goitre in my neck. I have also been struggling to get pregnant. I did get pregnant but miscarried at 12 weeks. My thyroid was poorly managed while I was pregnant and didn't get to see endocrinologist until my first scan a 12 weeks but at this point it was too late as I'd miscarried 2 days before my scan. I feel I should have seen endocrinologist before 12 weeks as that is the important time.
Claire Baker Thank you Claire. I'm so Sorry for the Mc. You need a TSH. Under 2 for pregnancy so important to get it there before conceiving and then restest regularly as will change quickly. Good luck. R
Hi Renee' 👋 I'd love you to make a video covering the different studies about T3. You mentioned some said it showed a benifit, others said it made no difference at all. Id like to see a discussion on how these studies ended up with different conclusions! That would be super interesting! 👌 thanks x
Hey. I would love to but have not time for new VLOGS at the moment, but I may soon start a IG cannel where i can do sort explanations. Essentially the trouble with thyroid studies stems form the fact that its about how people feel and tat is very difficult to calibrate and measure consistently and accuracy. I will let you know if I get my bum in order re IG.
I was diagnosed 8 years ago.Like you I initially felt much better on levothyroxine.I'd say for about the last 5 years I've struggled massively.Terrible all over joint pain and burning swollen hands.I've recently managed to get my endocrinologist trial me on t3 meds but he suggested stopping levo altogether :'(At first I felt absolutely brilliant ( I think because I still had levothyroxine I my system)I was on 175 levothyroxine and I'm now one 20mg tablets of t3 ( one tablet twice a day)I feel like death.It's only a 6 mth trial that he agreed to and I'm feeling like I've been set up yo fail.I know that sounds stupid but it's how I feel.
Marie O'shaughnessy Goodness. Good for the T3 but most people would need some T4 alongside both have a role and you can't make T4 from T3. I think you need so see/speak to the endo asap.
In the states they do a full thyroid panel . I was told they don't do it here. I've been on thyroxine for 30 years . In the USA they use natural thyroxine not synthetic ? I know gps say if they are in range everything's fine. Why don't gps do a full panel here?
Thanks for your amazingly clear explanation. I've trawled around various forums and discussion boards and although I can see what is being written it didn't seem to come together in a comprehensive way but now I've listened to you I understand completely(ish) haha. I certainly am not feeling well after a few years of being reasonably ok with T4 things started to go downhill and I gradually became weaker, heavier, etc. etc. I had a blood test early this year then another which showed high tsh and within range T4, I just tried to do a private finger prick test (golly, it's an effort getting that much blood from a finger) which was flawed so I have to try to do another. Seriously though from the ongoing reactions of my GP I don't think the results will make a difference to my treatment but at least I'll know why I feel like death. Thanks again.
Thank you so much for standing up to the mainstream and taking the time to educate and share. My own experience is a catalogue of misdiagnoses. My doctor thought I was mad and I began to question my own sanity. Eventually, like so many others, my thryoid levels fell out of range, and antibodies were sky high but not before I was too ill to function. Research and treatment is woefully inadequate. God bless you.
Crying watching this! I've had to beg and beg for testing beyond t4 but to no avail. I'm 21 and my symptoms are ruining my work my university and my life. I've been begging for a referral to endo to try these extra tests and meds. All I want for Christmas is to feel better but I'm hitting a brick wall! 😭
Stitchnbitch when I get comments like yours it makes me immensely sad and also sure that I am doing the right thing. You need to demand an endocrinologist referral from your GP and if this is not forthcoming write to the local LMC/CCG/NHS England. Good luck. Renée
Dr Renee If you do, my advice as a patient: Please don't work with the corporates (Spire, BMI etc), as you will be put under pressure to fleece patients and "work within guidelines". Just have your own private practice, and *keep a relatively low profile* (if you're helping patients, word will go round!)..Learn from the Peatfield and Skinner cases ; or you'll have the GMC on your back.
I've been on thyroid medication for 20 years now , t4 only wasn't working , many awful symptoms that shaped my life totally :( Finally last year I found a doctor ( abroad) who prescribed a compound medication, 70mcg T4 + 20mcg T3. I feel better, not greatbut better than before, unfortunately now I have a suppressed TSH a low T4 and a high T3 I don't know what to do, it is not easy to find the right dosage , feeling a bit lost :( Thank you so much for the video!
Elian777 it's my pleasure. My personal experience is that T3 does suppress TSH more than T4 alone. The most important thing however is how you examine. Are you Euthyroid (no symptoms of being hyperthyroid). If you are having your medication compounded, could you not increase the T4 slightly and decrease the T3. Remember, T3 is 4-5 times more powerful than T4. It's also important that you are getting at least yearly checks by a doctor, more often if changing doses. Thanks for watching. Renée
Dr Renee', Thank you very much for your reply. Actually the medication is not really compounded. It is an Italian brand that you can buy without prescription in Italy, it is called Tiroide Ibsa and has the ratio I mentioned before. Yes , I agree that I should increase the T4 slightly and decrease the T3 but the problem is how? For the T4 I can add some Levotiroxina that my GP prescribes , even if it is another brand I think it should be possible, to decrease the T3 is a problem ..I will try to find a solution . It's like a puzzle. The thyroid puzzle. I like my GP, he is a good doctor but I wish I had someone like you that really understands the problems of people with hypothyroidism. :)
Elian777 Hiya. Could your doctor speak to a compounding pharmacy in the U.K. I can't vouch for any but I have heard of this one www.customised4upharmacy.co.uk/ Good luck.
Thank you so much for your replies. I will try to speak with my doctor, not sure about the result. It would be great if it were possible to have a consultation with you. I know you work with the NHS but wondering if you have a private practice too. I live in London. Have a lovely day!
Hello Dr. I've been taking levothyroxine for 5 weeks now, started with 50mg but was having sweating and very fast pounding heart rate. Had the meds halved and have been taking 25mg for the last 3 weeks. My question is, I am noticing, much to my alarm that my hair is thinning quite rapidly. It feels like it's the meds and not the hypothyroidism to me as I didn't notice this problem before - what do you think? :)
Thinning hair can be found in hypothyroidism most commonly but also sometimes in hyper. It may just be that your body is resetting if you have been low for a long time and you just need time to let it settle an make you well again. Good luck.
Hi ,I have high cholesterol since been on thyroxine over twenty years but not on medication I thought I'd be put on statins as my cholesterol went up to 9 .. Also had private blood test showing high level of iron in blood and slightly higher zinc levels why would that be ?
Hi Dr Renee what do you think about natural dissected thyroid (Dr Peat). I'm registering as normal with GP. But I eat little and my mood is often low. Thanks for such great info...
Hi. As you know I am a big supporter of doctors treating thyroid disease properly. But sadly, if your thyroid is well within range (TSH below 2.5) then it doesn't need treating and doing so can actually be dangerous - thyroxine is an irritant to the heart and over-treating can push you into AF which can lead to stroke. Thyroxine is a very powerful and important hormone. I don't recommend NDT as a treatment even if you need treatment. Low mood is often accompanied by loss of appetite independent of hypothyroidism.
Thank you for the video, I've spent years researching this topic and I'm still confused. I've been hypo for 3 years after not feeling great for 5 years before that then finally getting diagnosed. I'm on 75mg of Levo but just this year my levels went all over the place. Had scans on thyroid, no lumps but signs of immune system attacking it. Spoke to my GP (who is very nice and been good) but her advice is that T3 doesn't work according to recent studies, but I think it's more she's looking at my results and simply saying I'm in range so she's happy. But I still don't feel right and have felt for a long time now that a simple small dose of T3 to my T4 would help me a lot. I've always put weight on very, very easily despite serious exercise and eating healthy. My question is, where can I buy T3 online? And if I'm on T4 how much do you take of T3? This information always seems to be hard to find anywhere.
Hi PK. I am so sorry that I seem to have missed your comment which is not like me! I think it could be useful for you to have a look at the Thyroid UK website (Health Unlocked) where people with thyroid disease share these kinds of experiences and answers to these very questions. I am prescribed T3 by my GP so have not had to buy it. I personally take 125mcg T4 and 20mcg of T3 in two doses. However these things are completely personal and depend very much on your individual situation, if you have any thyroid functioning, your weight etc. All thyroid hormone can also be dangerous in excess so doing this and working out the dose for you should be done with medical oversight. I hope that helps.
Dr Renee hey:) well i read on the last update online that old patients having t3 could still get it from their docs, however its very difficult for new patients to get it. My doc wont even listen to be about t3. Im just wondering if theres been anything new on this? Or is there another way for me to get it. Currently im on ndt from a private doc which is costing alot but from my tests ive realised that my t4 becomes a bit on the high side yet my t3 is okish. Which means i really need to reduce my ndt and add some t3 slowly instead. My tsh is just below the lowest recommended amount.
Ange1ca11ing Ah I see. It’s very difficult fir both new and old. Old should have prescription continued whilst being referred to endocrinologist for opinion but in some areas this is not happening, or the endocrinologist they refer to has a blanket policy of not agreeing to continuation. And GP’s are not meant to initiate T3 in primary care but refer to an endocrinologist but this often doesn’t happen or dyes only after long time delays and lots of pressure from the patient. It’s not a good scenario either way.
Dr Renee this is appalling. The only way to change this is to take this to court with heavy proof it works and plenty of witness, docs and patients. A law has to be passed because this is a very serious illness to have. It only ends up
Only ends up costing the nhs hence govt more because of all the offshoot illness with not having enough t3 causes to the patient. I myself have been in and out of hospital for all sorts of ailments and al they say is oh its uour thyroid. So no result. Whats the point!??
Was just wondering I've been hypothyroid for over twenty years which came on after having my son , I heard it can be common after childbirth and I lost a lot of blood and only the last nine months it has been fluctuating a lot , I was on 175 mcg for years but recently have gone down to 125 now back to 200 , why would it be fluctuating so much could it be because I'm menopausal aswell ?
If you are taking thyroxine and start HRT, the oestrogen can raise SHGB which also binds thyroxine and you can find you need to increase your thyroxine dose at this point.
In the states they do a full thyroid panel . I was told they don't do it here. I've been on thyroxine for 30 years . In the USA they use natural thyroxine not synthetic ? I know gps say if they are in range everything's fine. Why don't gps do a full panel here?
Wow it is sooo wonderful to hear this from a Dr. Thank you so much for being on board with the ITT Campaign.I am one of those desperately ill on T4 meds with absolutely no joy from my GPAfter years of suffering and feeling like I was dying I was given a book from a friend... There started my quest for knowledge.I was horrified with what I discovered my Dr wasn't telling me.I now buy NDT from abroad (not without its own worries as unregulated) but worth the risk as I have a life back.Thank you so much.You have made a lot of people very happy and optimistic!
Katepots ah that's so nice. Thank you. Sorry to hear you have suffered but am glad you have a solution that works for you. R
I am so pleased to hear someone from the medical profession telling it like it is. My T3 was stopped at the end of 2015 by my CCG, I had been taking T4/T3 combo for 7 years and feeling well. Prior to that I was on T4 only for many years and felt awful. It was really distresssing when my T3 was stopped abruptly by my GP. I wrote to my GP, the CCG and also went to my MP with a file full of information about the benefits of T3 (for some patients), but I got nowhere. They wouldn't accept the DIO2 test that proved I don't convert T4 to T3. I felt completely let down, depressed and frightened. I have since been buying my own T3/NDT and have been managing my own condition for over two years. An NHS Endocrinologist was happy to monitor my health as long as I bought it myself, but having completely lost faith in the NHS I shall continue to go it alone.
Amanda Ashley - hi can you tell me where you buy your T3 from ? Thanks
This is fascinating! I've been hypo since the age of 14 (now 39) and I think because I was so young I believed what I was told; we replace the missing hormone any everything is hunkydory. So when I fall asleep at 8.30pm I've been telling myself "everyone gets tired, it's not your thyroid". My TSH has been up and down through the years and now I'm on what I believe is a fairly high dose of 225mcg but I'm still symptomatic. I was diagnosed with depression in my early 20's, brain fog is a big problem as is lethargy and weight gain. I'm so desperate to feel normal! My GP believes it's depression, you've inspired me to dig deeper!
Kat Lines Oh my goodness Kat that is a big dose. You may certainly feel better on a lower dose of T4 with some T3. Please push for an endocrinologist and have this conversation. If this VLOG helps one person feel better I will be happy. R
That is the trouble Kat, we all tend to believe what we are told! I reckon I had symptoms growing up was 19 when I saw a specialist with goitre. Two years of blood tests. He couldn't make his mind up so dismissed me. Took ten years to get diagnosed and then spent 20 years trying o make t4 work increasing up to 225, decreasing to 175...up and down, whilst getting increasingly ill, Endo was limited help, for short time. I had to give up my job. Was told depression and made to feel somatic. Non-diagnosis and T4 destroyed decades of my life. T3 changed my life, Gave me life. Fight for it. Join ITT
Ursula Power ITT?
A campaign to Improve Thyroid Treatment for us all. Check out the ITT Facebook page and group and Twitter - itt_campaign. The campaign is hoping to harness the power of social media, bringing people together to stand and fight for the right to better health. ITT is fighting to have all treatment options available to suit the individual. There is a petition with over 5000 signatures in just two weeks.
This is fabulous. My GP has pretty much refused to test anything other than TSH and T4 because they are "within range". So I've paid to have a complete thyroid panel (plus a few extras like B12, folate etc) and am waiting for the results. Not that my GP will do anything with them but at least i can use them as leverage to see an endocrinologist (hopefully the one who is T3 friendly will be on duty). Having no thyroid sucks.
SugarplumValkyrie Having no thyroid can suck. And I think for those who have never experienced it they are too quick to assume it's simple. Good luck.
SugarplumValkyrie and thank you!
That is what I'm going to do, private bloods, and compare notes, they keep saying to me it takes time with some people to get in range, I'm so fed up,I feel like ive lost my life, had radiation iodine, but wasn't even told what I would feel like.. and she said they want send me back to endro Im just one of those that cant get it in range, its like a yo yo. .feel like coming of levo all together..
This is a brilliant video! I've just completed 2x lengthy online health and nutrition courses, and considering its vital importance relating to overall metabolism, the thyroid wasn't even worthy of discussion! I've learnt more from watching these kinds of videos. Thank you for sharing your story and enlightening us.
What an amazing video! Thank you so much for sharing your story Dr Renee as it validates so many people with this problem. My beautiful daughter is suffering so much atm, she's just turned 25 and has not been able to work for 2 years now and feels utterly hopeless and has little hope of ever getting better. She's on 50mg Levothyroxine and has never felt any better despite 'normal' blood tests. Her gp has now diagnosed her with ME/cfs as well but has offered nothing further to help. I have searched the internet (what else am I to do) and have found Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) which she is now taking through a private prescription...thank goodness it's quite inexpensive as we have quite a low income. But so far still no improvement. The only change is she appears to be achieving deep sleep (she's a long time insomniac) as she says she 'disappears' for a while, but still has no refreshment from sleep. So, after watching your video I have a new line of enquiry but I'm scared...what if it is T3 that she needs and we can't get it for her. Here we go again, wish us luck!
Denise Geake Hello Denise. Thank you for your lovely comments. I'm sorry to hear about your daughter. I am sure my mum worries like this about me. I am not sure how Naltrexone would work and wouldn't recommend it. Try Anne get some bloods that include free T4. Good luck. Renée
Dr Renee thank you, yes she needs another chat with her gp about the T3 and her bloods done again. Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) is different from 'just' Naltrexone and has been used for 30 odd years for many conditions yet it seems to be kept a secret. It's crazy!! It's a similar story to the T3. Please have a look at these videos, I've put the first one on, not because it's particularly good, but to validate the drug from a well known UK dr Chris Steel (used to be on This Morning) and I'll put some better ones below (or above...however this works haha). Sorry to fling all these things at you but as you're a dr and a blogger I couldn't miss this opportunity for you to see this brilliant drug...even though it's not helping my daughter, some people have had life changing results from it, just like you did from the T3.
Yes, Im thinking of getting LDN as I was diagnosed with ME and also fibromyalgia eleven years ago. It's supposed to help with these and also Ive now just received my blood tests back showing high TSH and low free T4. Im getting further bloods tested (privately as I need full tests doing) Ive suspected thyroid problems for a while to add to my list. I think you can get LDN on prescription if your doctor allows it but I think its up to individual gps I beleive. I need to find out again
Thank you for this vid, great to hear a Brit regarding this topic, it's a real shame we can't get what we need from our NHS, frustrating when you watch all the US info on here, where they can just ask their docs for tests and treatments, and all the info on dietary issues, our docs don't even mention diet at all. Although the expense is an issue in either country. I've been ill on and off for years with hypo since having my first child who is now 24. I'm on Thyroxine and it has been a nightmare, every time a new dr comes to the surgery, they do a new blood test and put my Thyroxine med down because the blood tests 'say so'. It always puts me into a medical spiral, cold hands and feet, tingling, mouth ulcers, cold sores, acne, psoriasis, dry skin, low mood, palpatations, irritability, etc why can't they look beyond the bloods, they don't even ask how you are, they just adjust you meds. When you go back to complain the dose isn't working, they just say well your bloods are 'fine' you're on the right dose. No information at all they treat us like children who can't understand anything least of all medical terminology. No, I'm not fine I having all the symptoms again. They can't understand you may need the dose you've had for 20yrs. That your body was working fine with it. I've had this up down yoyo every time. I'm not even asking for T3 just not to be messed about constantly with every different GP. Although the option would be great. I asked about that when I came back from the states 20 years ago and was very quickly put down, "we don't do that here, have you been reading medical books" as though it was unforgivable I should want to inform myself on the condition I had. Crazy. I'm glad to say things have changed a little since then.
The Scottish parliament has a petition, great, do I need to move to Scotland?
If this were a male dominated complaint do you think it would receive more attention?
Also going through the menopause at the mo and that is playing havoc with bells on. Hormone hell. Trying diet tips but there's a lot of conflicting advice on here. Thanks and good luck to everyone out there struggling with this.
Thank you so much for this Dr! It takes guts to speak the truth when all around you are burying their heads. I have a petition in the Scottish Parliament, been going almost five years now. If any disgruntled thyroid patients wish to make their feelings known, they can email the petitions committee there in support at petitions@parliament.scot www.parliament.scot/GettingInvolved/Petitions/PE01463
Hello, just wanted to know if you had any joy?
You're the Doctor on Radio London !...Im taking T4 and still ill nearly , for 3 years now.....Im just Sick Of being Sick for about 50% of my life ...Thankyou..Its so good to hear you explain it so I can actually understand it!...I'm having more blood tests next week because of migraines and my thyroid...which they say is 'now normal !...I'll be asking about my T3...
I cried when I watched this. A doctor actually validating what we have said for so long. And also that thyroxine can stop working, and you need T3 medication, which is what happened to me. So I'm not going mad then!?! Yay!!
Hi Tara. I find that so humbling. You are definitely not going mad I am not mad. I cannot function on T4 alone. If I could post a picture in here of me on T4 alone I would and you would be shocked. Not pretty... I was fine for 5 years on T4 and then during a period of intense stress I stopped converting. Fortunately I had an endocrinologist who realised what was going on and stepped outside of the guidelines and added T3. x
Oh goodness I was so startled to have a reply! I've never written on TH-cam before. Thank you so much! A large minority of people are really starting to fight back, but it sure is a fight. I'm on the case, with the NHS consultation, ITT campaign, Patients Association, National Voices, Morningside Healthcare (the newly licensed T3 manufacturer), CCG. And Thyroid UK have probably got me involved with a film on this!! I just cannot go back to the shell of a person I was for 2 years. I'd been pretty good on T4 for 25 years, then wham I was housebound. So very ill. My T3 is now from Greece, but it will run out after a few months. and I'm scared. Like lots of other people. It's so wrong. Thank you again!
Tara Riddle Ah it's my pleasure. And trust me, I am with you on this fight. It's a travesty. The NHS spends almost a billion pounds a year on paracetamol; a cheap, easy to buy drug that does not require a prescription. And yet T3 which is not available over the counter, can only be prescribed and is recognised by NHSE as "clinically effective" is denied so many people and yet costs the NHS far less than paracetamol. And let's not forget that as a Gp I am also prescribing gluten free bread, sun cream, E45 for nothing more than dry skin, ibuprofen, dry eye drops... the list is endless. But many GP's can't prescribe a drug that works, stops people from being unable to function in society and is only available on script. This is a fight that needs fighting. And fight I will. R
Dr Renee, the T3 fight continues!! The ITT girls are doing an amazing job. My MP (was Govt under secretary of state for life sciences) is very concerned and anxious to help. He really wants 'confirmation' from some clinicians to say that T3 is safe, effective and necessary for some patients. Dare I ask if you would be willing for your name to go to him? Or would you know any other clinicians who would do this? I can contact you privately perhaps via your clinic. I hesitate to put my details publicly on here. Wasn't sure whether to post this or not...!
Hi Tara. I saw my MP Mike Freer about it yesterday. He has written to Jeremy Hunt for me twice! He has asked for this which is from the BTA and states that the NHS are clearly looking at withdrawing T3 purely on cost. They also say that they accept for some patients it is necessary. So hopefully this will help:
www.british-thyroid-association.org/sandbox/bta2016/information_for_endocrinologists.pdf
Yes of course you can use my name but I am GP not an endocrinologist. However, Dr Rina Davidson, the Consultant Endocrinologist who started me on T3 has said she would give quotes if asked. So by all means.
R x
I am crying as I hear you T4 started to not work for me for the past 5 years I had symptoms and I never got anywhere with my doctors. It is all stress,depression, over eating ,keep away from the sweets and carbs which surprisingly as I read before a way my body telling me I need energy I am not getting any! I discussed T3 with my doctor but she put me on a slightly lower T4 on alternative days still I do not feel good. I wish you were my doctor
r.elnazer ah I'm sorry. Didn't mean to make you cry. Go back to your GP, ask for an endocrinologist referral. Don't give up. Petition your MP and do the NHSE consultation survey. Every person engaging makes success in getting T3 added to the guidelines more likely. Good luck.
Lovely lady giving excellent information. Thank you.😊
I've been on Levothyroxine for 7 years and lost my thyroid by getting radiation idiot and still get heart racing and headaches and I have change the way I eat and I am hypo thank you for this advice.
T3 has pretty much saved my life. My gp won't supply me any. It's good to talk out about it as we all need to raise awareness! So many people especially women are desperate to get it, or keep it!
Ebony N J Gordon ask for an endo referral. Also do complete the NHS consultation at the bottom of this video In description as the more the better impact. Good luck.
Thank you! This Vlog has been so good and help me understand Hypothryoidism more :)
A reassuring Vlog. Thank you so much Dr Renee. You are so brave. To know that there are Dr's out there who are understanding and can relate to us, with this condition. So where are the other GP's, Endo;s etc who agree with this. Can they not stand with us to help us effect the changes in the protocols we need. I get so cross when I hear of GP's and Endo's getting angry with patients for daring to suggest T3. Why do they feel the need to react like this? I'm guessing it is 'guilt'. They know they are failing us and know it is wrong. It is very unprofessional of them. Very arrogant!
Thanks Ursula. I think my colleagues who haven't been through it and who rely on the guidelines would use the 'no evidence' argument. Sadly for those of us who have been through, evidence is irrelevant because we have our own real evidence. I can't answer for the reports of doctors getting angry. ? reaction to be challenged. I don't know but there is no excuse and the guidelines need to change. Thanks for your lovely comments and support.
Your support tis invaluable to us all Dr Renee. Thank you so much.
Ive been told by an endocrinologist (while under her care) that T3 is only prescribed to a cancer patients.... I wanted to get a prescription to start taking it but that's what I was left with....
ElooniaEloonia Hi. That's not true I'm afraid. There are no guidelines around T3 prescribing so no protocols stating cancer patients only. And frankly, if your thyroid doesn't work properly/at all, the reason is irrelevant. Ask again, I would. R
Hi thanks for the video.I am male with Hashmotos. Witch I had private blootest to find out.Was felling bad for 2 years all like dizzy, headaches, hart paptation, cold , seen 3 Doctor no help so I study a bit about Hashmotos went gluten free lot of Simtons went with in a week and 80% better and that's all it took.I even ask a doctor if I went gluten free would it help he said no.So when I went back to doctor told them I feel 80% better because of been gluten free he said you must have a leaky gut.And when I try to show him my private blood test did not look and I said I have Hashmotos he said well you still take the same medication. And when some people in UK Thyroid web site seen my blood test of doctor and private ones said I need to have my thyroid scanned because of how bad my blood tests was .
Hi Gary. Im sorry that you have had a rough time. It does sound like you may have had more than one issue going on but also like you have at least sorted the Gluten intolerance. I would suggest that if you are still having problems or would like a thyroid scan, you should see your GP again and ask. Good luck.
Thanks so much for info Dr Renee. I had a TT 6 yrs ago and never felt right with high tsh. Finally I sourced/self medicated with t3 in Feb and told my gp in June who got nervous even tho I felt better and my tsh look much better so she referred me to an endo...he's happy to prescribe t3 although I don't think mp brand is as good as Greek! Can you please add the petition link ?
hln1969 Hi. That's great news. If you go
to the info under the video the petition is there along with NHS England consultation on withdrawing T3, that's worth competing to and doesn't take too long. Let me know if you don't find it. R
So interesting ... I've tried to see what Canadian standards are in relation to T3 ... I think it IS available but possibly not easily ... prescription drugs are not covered by our universal healthcare here but it looks to be available OTC .....some ppl opt to try 'desiccated thyroid' meds - an animal byproduct I think?
Very helpful video. I have had hashimotos for about 4 years and I'm on levothyroxine. I had a large goitre in my neck. I have also been struggling to get pregnant. I did get pregnant but miscarried at 12 weeks. My thyroid was poorly managed while I was pregnant and didn't get to see endocrinologist until my first scan a 12 weeks but at this point it was too late as I'd miscarried 2 days before my scan. I feel I should have seen endocrinologist before 12 weeks as that is the important time.
Claire Baker Thank you Claire. I'm so
Sorry for the Mc. You need a TSH. Under 2 for pregnancy so important to get it there before conceiving and then restest regularly as will change quickly. Good luck. R
Hi Renee' 👋 I'd love you to make a video covering the different studies about T3. You mentioned some said it showed a benifit, others said it made no difference at all. Id like to see a discussion on how these studies ended up with different conclusions! That would be super interesting! 👌 thanks x
Hey. I would love to but have not time for new VLOGS at the moment, but I may soon start a IG cannel where i can do sort explanations. Essentially the trouble with thyroid studies stems form the fact that its about how people feel and tat is very difficult to calibrate and measure consistently and accuracy. I will let you know if I get my bum in order re IG.
I was diagnosed 8 years ago.Like you I initially felt much better on levothyroxine.I'd say for about the last 5 years I've struggled massively.Terrible all over joint pain and burning swollen hands.I've recently managed to get my endocrinologist trial me on t3 meds but he suggested stopping levo altogether :'(At first I felt absolutely brilliant ( I think because I still had levothyroxine I my system)I was on 175 levothyroxine and I'm now one 20mg tablets of t3 ( one tablet twice a day)I feel like death.It's only a 6 mth trial that he agreed to and I'm feeling like I've been set up yo fail.I know that sounds stupid but it's how I feel.
I forgot to add I also have b12 deficiency and but d deficiency too.
Marie O'shaughnessy Goodness. Good for the T3 but most people would need some T4 alongside both have a role and you can't make T4 from T3. I think you need so see/speak to the endo asap.
In the states they do a full thyroid panel . I was told they don't do it here. I've been on thyroxine for 30 years . In the USA they use natural thyroxine not synthetic ? I know gps say if they are in range everything's fine. Why don't gps do a full panel here?
Thanks for your amazingly clear explanation. I've trawled around various forums and discussion boards and although I can see what is being written it didn't seem to come together in a comprehensive way but now I've listened to you I understand completely(ish) haha. I certainly am not feeling well after a few years of being reasonably ok with T4 things started to go downhill and I gradually became weaker, heavier, etc. etc. I had a blood test early this year then another which showed high tsh and within range T4, I just tried to do a private finger prick test (golly, it's an effort getting that much blood from a finger) which was flawed so I have to try to do another. Seriously though from the ongoing reactions of my GP I don't think the results will make a difference to my treatment but at least I'll know why I feel like death. Thanks again.
Thank you so much for standing up to the mainstream and taking the time to educate and share. My own experience is a catalogue of misdiagnoses. My doctor thought I was mad and I began to question my own sanity. Eventually, like so many others, my thryoid levels fell out of range, and antibodies were sky high but not before I was too ill to function. Research and treatment is woefully inadequate. God bless you.
Helen Nock Thank you so much. I hope you are being treated now and feeling better. R
Ah...had to help myself a bit. But hoping to find that right endo. A wealth of information will come out of this vlog, I'm sure :)
Crying watching this! I've had to beg and beg for testing beyond t4 but to no avail. I'm 21 and my symptoms are ruining my work my university and my life. I've been begging for a referral to endo to try these extra tests and meds. All I want for Christmas is to feel better but I'm hitting a brick wall! 😭
Stitchnbitch when I get comments like yours it makes me immensely sad and also sure that I am doing the right thing. You need to demand an endocrinologist referral from your GP and if this is not forthcoming write to the local LMC/CCG/NHS England. Good luck. Renée
Do you have the details of the Petition please
Kitti Voltaire its in the comments below the video. Hit see more in the description.
Thank you Dr Renee thats great Great Vlog by the way More people need to know about this issue
Kitti Voltaire I agree and I will keep pushing! Thank you.
I so wish I had a GP like you. I have a conversion problem and GP just wants to give me T4. Do you do private consultations?
jo hurst Hi Jo. It's infuriating isn't it. I haven't but I am looking at it. I will post if I sort it. R x
Ahh that would be so appreciated - I think many people would appreciate your support
Dr Renee If you do, my advice as a patient: Please don't work with the corporates (Spire, BMI etc), as you will be put under pressure to fleece patients and "work within guidelines". Just have your own private practice, and *keep a relatively low profile* (if you're helping patients, word will go round!)..Learn from the Peatfield and Skinner cases ; or you'll have the GMC on your back.
I've been on thyroid medication for 20 years now , t4 only wasn't working , many awful symptoms that shaped my life totally :( Finally last year I found a doctor ( abroad) who prescribed a compound medication, 70mcg T4 + 20mcg T3. I feel better, not greatbut better than before, unfortunately now I have a suppressed TSH a low T4 and a high T3 I don't know what to do, it is not easy to find the right dosage , feeling a bit lost :( Thank you so much for the video!
Elian777 it's my pleasure. My personal experience is that T3 does suppress TSH more than T4 alone. The most important thing however is how you examine. Are you Euthyroid (no symptoms of being hyperthyroid). If you are having your medication compounded, could you not increase the T4 slightly and decrease the T3. Remember, T3 is 4-5 times more powerful than T4. It's also important that you are getting at least yearly checks by a doctor, more often if changing doses. Thanks for watching. Renée
Dr Renee', Thank you very much for your reply. Actually the medication is not really compounded. It is an Italian brand that you can buy without prescription in Italy, it is called Tiroide Ibsa and has the ratio I mentioned before. Yes , I agree that I should increase the T4 slightly and decrease the T3 but the problem is how? For the T4 I can add some Levotiroxina that my GP prescribes , even if it is another brand I think it should be possible, to decrease the T3 is a problem ..I will try to find a solution . It's like a puzzle. The thyroid puzzle. I like my GP, he is a good doctor but I wish I had someone like you that really understands the problems of people with hypothyroidism. :)
yes, no symptoms of being hyperthyroid
Elian777 Hiya. Could your doctor speak to a compounding pharmacy in the U.K. I can't vouch for any but I have heard of this one www.customised4upharmacy.co.uk/ Good luck.
Thank you so much for your replies. I will try to speak with my doctor, not sure about the result. It would be great if it were possible to have a consultation with you. I know you work with the NHS but wondering if you have a private practice too. I live in London. Have a lovely day!
Hello Dr.
I've been taking levothyroxine for 5 weeks now, started with 50mg but was having sweating and very fast pounding heart rate. Had the meds halved and have been taking 25mg for the last 3 weeks. My question is, I am noticing, much to my alarm that my hair is thinning quite rapidly. It feels like it's the meds and not the hypothyroidism to me as I didn't notice this problem before - what do you think? :)
Thinning hair can be found in hypothyroidism most commonly but also sometimes in hyper. It may just be that your body is resetting if you have been low for a long time and you just need time to let it settle an make you well again. Good luck.
Levothyroxine is the culprit unfortunately, tried it twice and lost hair from it, soon as I stopped, my hair grew back. Try NDT.
Hi ,I have high cholesterol since been on thyroxine over twenty years but not on medication I thought I'd be put on statins as my cholesterol went up to 9 .. Also had private blood test showing high level of iron in blood and slightly higher zinc levels why would that be ?
Hi Dr Renee what do you think about natural dissected thyroid (Dr Peat). I'm registering as normal with GP. But I eat little and my mood is often low. Thanks for such great info...
Hi. As you know I am a big supporter of doctors treating thyroid disease properly. But sadly, if your thyroid is well within range (TSH below 2.5) then it doesn't need treating and doing so can actually be dangerous - thyroxine is an irritant to the heart and over-treating can push you into AF which can lead to stroke. Thyroxine is a very powerful and important hormone. I don't recommend NDT as a treatment even if you need treatment. Low mood is often accompanied by loss of appetite independent of hypothyroidism.
@@DrRenee thank you for response
Thank you for the video, I've spent years researching this topic and I'm still confused. I've been hypo for 3 years after not feeling great for 5 years before that then finally getting diagnosed. I'm on 75mg of Levo but just this year my levels went all over the place. Had scans on thyroid, no lumps but signs of immune system attacking it. Spoke to my GP (who is very nice and been good) but her advice is that T3 doesn't work according to recent studies, but I think it's more she's looking at my results and simply saying I'm in range so she's happy. But I still don't feel right and have felt for a long time now that a simple small dose of T3 to my T4 would help me a lot. I've always put weight on very, very easily despite serious exercise and eating healthy. My question is, where can I buy T3 online? And if I'm on T4 how much do you take of T3? This information always seems to be hard to find anywhere.
Hi PK. I am so sorry that I seem to have missed your comment which is not like me! I think it could be useful for you to have a look at the Thyroid UK website (Health Unlocked) where people with thyroid disease share these kinds of experiences and answers to these very questions. I am prescribed T3 by my GP so have not had to buy it. I personally take 125mcg T4 and 20mcg of T3 in two doses. However these things are completely personal and depend very much on your individual situation, if you have any thyroid functioning, your weight etc. All thyroid hormone can also be dangerous in excess so doing this and working out the dose for you should be done with medical oversight. I hope that helps.
What is the current situation for new patients? This is april 2020?
Ange1ca11ing I don’t really understand the question?
Dr Renee hey:) well i read on the last update online that old patients having t3 could still get it from their docs, however its very difficult for new patients to get it. My doc wont even listen to be about t3. Im just wondering if theres been anything new on this? Or is there another way for me to get it. Currently im on ndt from a private doc which is costing alot but from my tests ive realised that my t4 becomes a bit on the high side yet my t3 is okish. Which means i really need to reduce my ndt and add some t3 slowly instead. My tsh is just below the lowest recommended amount.
Ange1ca11ing Ah I see. It’s very difficult fir both new and old. Old should have prescription continued whilst being referred to endocrinologist for opinion but in some areas this is not happening, or the endocrinologist they refer to has a blanket policy of not agreeing to continuation. And GP’s are not meant to initiate T3 in primary care but refer to an endocrinologist but this often doesn’t happen or dyes only after long time delays and lots of pressure from the patient. It’s not a good scenario either way.
Dr Renee this is appalling. The only way to change this is to take this to court with heavy proof it works and plenty of witness, docs and patients. A law has to be passed because this is a very serious illness to have. It only ends up
Only ends up costing the nhs hence govt more because of all the offshoot illness with not having enough t3 causes to the patient. I myself have been in and out of hospital for all sorts of ailments and al they say is oh its uour thyroid. So no result. Whats the point!??
Was just wondering I've been hypothyroid for over twenty years which came on after having my son , I heard it can be common after childbirth and I lost a lot of blood and only the last nine months it has been fluctuating a lot , I was on 175 mcg for years but recently have gone down to 125 now back to 200 , why would it be fluctuating so much could it be because I'm menopausal aswell ?
If you are taking thyroxine and start HRT, the oestrogen can raise SHGB which also binds thyroxine and you can find you need to increase your thyroxine dose at this point.
My thyroid starting playing up after 30 years. It was when I jad come OFF hrt for a while then when I went back on it my thyroid returned to normal
My thyroid starting playing up after 30 years. It was when I jad come OFF hrt for a while then when I went back on it my thyroid returned to normal
Thank you so true
In the states they do a full thyroid panel . I was told they don't do it here. I've been on thyroxine for 30 years . In the USA they use natural thyroxine not synthetic ? I know gps say if they are in range everything's fine. Why don't gps do a full panel here?
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