130 lbs weight gain. Horrible cramps /periods. Feeling super anxious. Dry skin and rash that comes snd goes on my face. Feeling like I can’t ever get enough sleep. I had all the symptoms for the last couple yrs. I finally found out this week I have hypothyroidism. I could cry. I finally will be able to get on meds and start feeling better
I was born with it not diagnosed with it until my 40s, a heart murmur and jaundice was the first indicators, all the childhood stuff, learning issues, , last in races, no energy and breathless, asthma(thyroid) symptoms, itching in cold weather, bad period’s(thyroid/pituitary, childhood sleep issues(pineal), anxiety(adrenals,thyroid,pituitary), my mums pregnancy stress caused by my dad, all these things affect us, the list goes on.I believe we’re all born with, it’s part any parcel of the stress of survival and the cortisol affecting each generation, the lack of nutrients, needed for the development of our brains and bodies, but the levels dependent of how we deal with stress.
I really appreciate that you mentioned the psychological effects of hypothyroidism. I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety disorder after years of feeling there was something wrong with me. It took a heavy toll on my academic and personal life. I've been taking levothyroxine for three years and it has changed my life for the better. I wish more people got their hormones checked when they feel extremely sad or tired for long periods of time. Thank you for making this information accesible, Dr. Dray.
I understand. I remember being in my Pcp’s office trying to get a prescription for anti depressants and he (& others) telling me I should talk to a therapist, when all a really needed was some levothyroxine!
I'm waiting to hear back from my Dr to get approved for lithium for my bipolar 1 but my blood test showed my TSH was higher than normal. I'm REALLY struggling because I was hoping the lithium would be the miracle cure for me too. My skin has gotten so freaking dry in retrospect and I have no idea when it happened, my cheeks, forehead, arms, legs hands and feet are particularly awful. I've wondered if I've had a thyroid issue for years due to other issues but the Drs and nurses don't seem to take me seriously. 🤷♀️
Thank you so much for "talking up" to your viewers instead of "talking down". I am so thankful for the way you unabashedly dispense medical vocabulary to get your points across. Thank you for believing in the intelligence of your viewers and giving us am opportunity to be more educated on anatomy and physiology. I wish that basic comprehension of human bodily functions were more common knowledge, maybe the ER and Healthcare systems would be less congested if people's understanding were raised to a greater level. They might be less stressed and feel more empowered in their own bodies. Thank you for getting the public a little bit closer to that idealistic reality by not being afraid to talk to us like we are smart (Google is here to help you understand the words she says. Learn Latin roots, prefixes, suffixes, to help understand more medical terminology).
Well put, couldn't agree more! This is so, so important and yet hardly ever addressed. Education can't stop when you leave school anymore. Dr. Dray is doing an outstanding job, sharing important knowledge with us and it always feels, like a good friend is talking to you!
This has been on my horizon since 2001, when my then Doctor told me I had Hashimotos, but that it would not be treated then , just 'watched'. Here we are in 2023, and I still have all the symptoms you have discussed, but still have not been given help or treatment for the condition. I am overweight, tired, dry skinned and losing my previously thick hair ....spoke to current doc a couple of weeks ago, had more blood tests, but have not had any information, so presumably I just go on waiting....depression is a very real consequence.
Please find a doctor who will listen to you and help you!! Your doctor is getting paid to do nothing for you-- Don't pay for not getting any answer or treatment ❤
Valuable PSA Dr. Dray! One of your RNs here. I can spot a lady with hypothyroidism from across the supermarket. Pale, overweight, baldness/alopecia, dry flaky skin...an affect of depression. I want to run up and suggest that they have a full thyroid panel. Of course I don't, but I send a silent prayer they get tested soon.
What's really horrible is that the total lack of energy/drive makes it so very hard, to even look for help. Never mind persuing a diagnosis, when first possibly not being taken serious by your doctor. It's just so tragic, when people just suffer completely avoidably 😕
I have no problem telling anyone they appear to have thyroid issues. I was checking out at the chiropractor and the receptionist's neck was extremely swollen. I asked her if any of her doctor's have ever mentioned she has a goiter, or tested her thyroid levels. Nope. She has never heard of thyroid issues. She got tested and was diagnosed with severe hashimoto's. She then had her daughter tested with the same results. I temporarily embarrassed her, but my refusal to stay silent to avoid discomfort rescued her from years of suffering. She spoke at my church this week. Her neck was slim, her skin glowed and she spoke on the miracle she experienced from going from unable to get out of bed each day to the joy of having the energy to keep up with her toddler granddaughter.
Perhaps you could print a mini-PSA on a business card. "You might have [...] if you have these symptoms: (Bullet point list). Ask your care provider/ care team for these tests: [...] Good Luck."
My thyroid was removed at 13 and it was huge. I'm 58 and I weigh nothing and I am riddled with many other autoimmune diseases. They've never had my thyroid right. Spot on analysis of a horrific disease nobody takes seriously.
I really appreciate that you mentioned that people with hypothyroidism are misdiagnosed with depression. I learned that hypothyroidism is the most common cause of depression on the planet as a medical student, long before I became a psychiatrist. Yet virtually every day I see people with untreated or under-treated hypothyroidism referred for “treatment resistant depression.” Their endocrinologists don’t recognize it, let alone their PCPs. Furthermore, there is a LOT of data, going back to the 1980s and regularly replicated in different settings, that treating TSH is critical in all mood disorders. Yet again, at least in the US, psychiatry is the red haired stepchild and “regular” doctors couldn’t care less. Also - apropos that Hertoghe sign (sorry if I misspelled) - this is, believe it or not, one of the questions on the MMPI (a famous personality test) designed to see if people are LYING. IOW, if you “strongly agree” with that statement (“I am missing the outer third of my eyebrow”) you get put into a category of people that answer questions randomly or untruthfully. What a world we live in.
@spacemilk hypothyroidism causes thinning and loss of the outer third of the eyebrows. This is called Hertoghe's sign. It can be the first sign of hypothyroidism and is considered pathognomonic for hypothyroidism. However, on the famous personality test, the MMPI, "I am missing the outer third of my eyebrows," when endorsed, is counted toward the lie scale. Not sure what was so unclear to you.
Thank you so much for giving us such inform ative & validating information Far too many of us have had deal w/ bias, egoes & inade quate or no treatment. It's been said that patients' BP go up bec we're intimi dated by "our white jackets." No, w/in 2 mins of entering the exam room, or walking past us in the hallway, you're con cerned that you waited, for however long it took, just to get another "moron" etc. Again, thank you, on behalf of the many who've had to deal w/ "You need ..." when we knew "No, I know my body, my lifestyle, you are the arrogant, TMN (Toxic Malignant Narcissist etc. You are a blessing to your patients. I wish I could be so blessed!
It took me 8 years of asking to be tested for hypothyroidism and changing doctors 3 times and finally after refusal after refusal I got an at home test kit and went to my new doctor with the results. Yet again I was being fobbed off. My tsh levels were 9.3 and they were trying to tell me I didn't need to start any treatment. I insisted that something HAD to be done as I'm almost bald (51 year old woman), I eat like a bird and I'm 5 stone overweight, my skin is a mess, tired all the time and I've been admitted to hospital on a beautiful August day with hypothermia!! And STILL had to go through 8 bloody years of begging to be tested. Doctors are useless at this. If you think you have thyroid problems go to your doc and DEMAND to be tested and REFUSE to leave the surgery until the test is done. Or get a home test kit like I did. My heart is permanently damaged from the hypothyroidism being left untreated for so long. I'm so angry at Irish "so-called" doctors who do little to help patients and are only interested in the money they get out of you at the end of the consult.
@@elins9970 Subclinical hypothyroidism. Check out functional medicine doctors on TH-cam about what to do to keep thyroid healthy. Gut, liver, adrenals are usually the beginning point of hypothyroidism, Hashimotos.
As someone who has post surgical hypothyroidism, that is now resolved (thank goodness), I actually broke down crying when you talked about how taxing it can be on a person. I went years feeling horrible, and it changed my relationships and changed my life. I am in a better place now, but it still feels good to be validated and educated.
I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism since I was 12. My parents weren’t aware that I would constantly skip my daily pill of TSH, I would always take naps after school and be constantly tired in highschool. Fast forward to turning 18 and leaving my home, I went 4 straight years with out taking my TSH and let me tell you... i felt very very depressed & I was falling asleep anywhere.. and everywhere. I looked awful. I’m 25 now and have been taking my pill everydat for 3 years and My energy has been phenomenal. No more naps. I go to the gym 4 days out of the week. Better hair. Better skin. Moral of the story. Please please take your tsh pill everyday. It’s so important!
@@missvelvetorchid1047 Yes, It's very unfortunate. I'm doing much of my own research into hypothyroidism & have found much more information than any doctor has ever given me.
As a rare person with congenital hypothyroidism, thank you for covering this! At last someone covered hypothyroidism and did not leave out the neonatal type. It is annoying for me, though, because my PCP still writes off a lot of health concerns of mine even with my known condition.
I had my thyroid removed 20 years ago due to thyroid cancer - and have been on Synthroid ever since. It’s been smooth sailing, so I want to tell people out there in similar situations that if you follow Drs orders you should be fine.
Dr. Dray - be my endo!!!!! This is something I have been battling for about 15 years now, along with diabetes. (I won't write about how many doctors told me my levels were "normal," despite all of my symptoms.) The fatigue and cold intolerance are my biggest issues, but my dry skin is minimal. However, I "fight back" every day by taking my meds, working out regularly, eating healthy and moisturizing!!! I appreciate your videos! I may be doing some things right, but there's always something I can do better or something else I can learn! Thank you!!!
Diagnosed with hashimotos when I was around 13-14. I’m 24 now. I was so depressed and my skin, hair, nails were dry. Best thing I did was go on meds, go gluten free, Whole Foods, and focus my energy on things that bring me joy
I had Hashimoto's as a teen and nobody understood what was happening to me -- especially me -- and it was pure h***. I wasn't taken to an endocriniologist for almost 2 years. My thyroid was removed in my 20s and in 20 years since I have tried to explain the condition, how it affects someone, why I'm sometimes not as together as other times, why my weight fluctuates and why my hair has thinned. Your video is the best summation of living with this that I have encountered so thank you! Your validation helps a great deal because autoimmune diseases aren't visible (their symptoms sorta are but not like a physical disability) and unless one has been through it -- or treats those patients -- they don't understand. One thing about it though is that it's a great litmus test for friends: if they can't understand it or won't take the time to learn, bye bye. Hypothyroidism is exhausting and I definitely don't have the time to explain my illness to someone over and over and over. Thank you again!
I started noticing those symptoms at around 12 years of age. They labeled me lazy, cranky, attention seeker(even though I was a quiet introvert who hated attention) when I complained about feeling unwell. Even though some of my symptoms were observable, like I had to be taken to the hospital a couple times because of an impaction of my bowels because I couldn't use the bathroom! I probably ate healthier than all the other kids in school, yet drs only ever told me to eat more fiber. I already ate prunes like candy, veggie salad was one of my favorite foods! I was finally diagnosed when my mental fog became so terrible I felt like I was hallucinating. Then one of my doctors actually took me seriously and sent me to get the proper labs that finally lead to my Hashimotos diagnosis. It only took 16 years of me complaining of worsening symptoms and worsening quality of life. So many things I had to give up because of my symptoms. I used to be in track till 7th grade and I just couldn't anymore because I felt so sick, I couldn't finish University because of my brain fog and falling asleep constantly anywhere 😔 I used to be an A student and had a grant and I lost it all as I progressively felt more tired and ill. But drs never took me seriously and made me feel like I was exaggerating or something.
Very similar tale for me to. I am a male and at the age of 16/17 I was taking 2 hot water bottles to bed, had 2 quilts and a blanket on top. I was constantly feeling cold in summer too, my grades started to deteriote because of brain fog and inability to concentrate. However, most of my skin colour became pasty and almost colic. People started to call me yellow head. I started to lose my body hair and completely became covered in pimples and itchy rashes. My hair on my head started to drastically drop out that it caused me severe depression and anxiety. It wasn't until I stated to feel vertigo and almost collapsed at work that I was finally given a blood test and identified as having low thyroid and being close to death. 14/15 years had past at this stage to get to this point. I was told it is rare for a male to have under active thyroid, however a male and a teenager as I was, was extremely rare, hence why doctors for many years were very dismissive of my concerns. I started on a dose of 250mg of thyroxine for several years once I had been diagnosed.
@@romeodelta7004 I was jaundiced too! I wonder what's the connection with low thyroid and issues with the liver or red blood cells, because I've heard of people who have a similar problem but I can't find online why it would cause high bilirubin in the blood and urine to the point of jaundice.
Love your earrings! I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s a year and a half ago! I suffered for over a year with head to toe hives! All day, everyday!!! No relief! It was during lockdown so I could only see my dermatologist virtually. I was given prednisone for 2 whole months which really reeked havoc on my body! No one knew how to diagnose the hives until I went to the allergist and they took bloodwork and discovered the autoimmune disease. Thank you for doing this video! Hopefully it will help others discover the signs and they won’t have to go what I went through!
I’ve had Hashimoto’s thyroiditis for almost a decade. It’s well managed at this time by taking 112mcg of levothyroxine a day and a great endocrinologist. My previous PCP failed to properly diagnose and treat it (he didn’t want to treat it at all 🥴). Needless to say I also have a new PCP who is also great. Don’t settle for mediocre care people! Thanks for your content Dr Dray ♥️
Holy moly! I’m sorry you had to deal with that A-hole! Nobody deserves to feel unheard by their doctors! I bet you feel so much better! I’m glad you’re all straightened out now💕
Don't take CBD oil if you're taking Levothyroxine. It counteracts the medicine. In fact don't take CBD at all if you have hypothyroidism, it just makes it worse.
@@loloholmes2793 oh wow!! That’s incredibly interesting! I GUARANTEE YOU that sooo manyyy people don’t know this and are taking it! Thanks for sharing this very helpful information. This will help loads of people 💕
Just a note, it can be very difficult to get diagnosed if you have a thyroid disorder, most doctors, even if looking specifically for a thyroid disorder, will only order standard labs, but to really see your thyroid levels you need specialized lab work done. So be prepared to advocate for yourself, likely to multiple doctors, don’t give up and research what tests you’ll need done so you can request them specifically.
I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism in college, and my levels were insanely high. Even now, 10+ years later, I'm learning more about how the condition has presented and the side effects that I previously thought were innocuous. I've also had eczema for most of my life, and I've been curious how these impact each other. Thanks for you knowledge!
@@suzanneemerson2625basically your body is pushing very hard to get your thyroid to start working properly while also attacking it, the blood test level will end up with high numbers but your thyroid is underactive. If you have very low levels, your thyroid is overactive and consuming all of what your body is giving it leaving not much left to see in blood work
Thank you so much for this video. When I had my radioactive iodine therapy as treatment for hyperthyroid, my elbow length thick hair over the last 3 years is ruined and so are my nails. I asked my family doctor if my low thyroid would have anything to do with that and he said no not at all. I didn't think it sounded right, but that was when i gained weight, hair started breaking and ended up so short and my nails wont grow without breaking. I'll def start taking my meds. Thank you again for this all this info. I never thought i would say I miss my hyperthyroidism lol, I was so skinny, my hair was beautiful but i had hot flashes constantly and went through energy spurts where people thought i was on drugs. The only reason I had it treated was because of a growth on my thyroid
I am 58. Was diagnosed with low thyroid after birth of my child when I was 36. I have taken medication (frequent testing to maintain proper levels) since diagnosis… BUT… I still have ALL the symptoms listed here. I have recently been diagnosed with MCAS. I have been tested for many autoimmune conditions… all negative. Sometimes my ANA is positive, sometimes not. I have been told that I do not have Hashimoto’s.
Omg you just described my hypothyroidism symptoms that I never connected to my condition. Half my thyroid was removed 7 years ago due to a large goiter& I was put on Synthroid & have labs done every 6 months but my endocrinologist never discussed any symptoms of hypothyroidism with me. From the cold hands & feet, the outer eyebrow hair loss & hair loss in general, brittle nails, sluggish metabolism, omg I had no idea. Thank u so much Dr. Dray.
I cant tell you how appreciative I am of this video. 2 months into the beginning of Covid and the shut in, my thyroid went crazy. All the symptoms but I really saw it I could barely walk when I would first get up, having soreness in both feet. Then it started happening to both hands. To this day, I still cant bend my left 3 fingers due to the swelling that is still there. I cant lift weights, take clothes out of the wash, open lids, etc. All the things we take for granted. I was tested and my levels were off the charts and I was positive for Hashimotos. I do believe I have congenital hash as I have always had a huge intolerance to cold (I used to get teased for it), heart palpitations, and my growth was so slow (17 lbs at 3 yrs old) and I've always been very tiny. Until covid hit and my hash came out, I gained 25 lbs in 2 months and to this day cant get it off. I'm on the medication for the thyroid and they have taken the severity or edge off but I still cant use my hand much and the muscle pain is awful sometimes. I've also always been oily skinned and when it hit hard, my skin went dry, irritated, flaky. Something I had never had before. Now, I have an extensive skin routine because I have to and my skin glows now. My HMO did and still does nothing about my symptoms except a little pill that doesnt do much so I really appreciate you making people aware. It's no joke.
You just described my Hashimoto thyroiditis the last year. I found out after my third baby. Thank you for shedding light on this disease and its challenges. As a mother and graduate student, it has been very challenging. I found a functional MD, and she has helped turn my life around.
Thank you Dr. Dray!!! I had a full thyroidectomy summer of 2021 and three months later developed carpal tunnel on both wrist and forearm which still have. I told my thyroid doctor and my pcp and they keep telling me it's not related. This video is so validating!!
I watched this on the TV. Lord, I thank you for my health. However, when it comes to my skin it's ok, but I am tired, hair loss, pain in my joints, they said my hormones were ok. I don't like when I don't get to see the papers with the results. But wow, may God be with all going through this horrible situations.
I have Hashimoto’s and have changed my shower routine to accommodate. I use an extra heater to warm up the bathroom so I can use lower temp water and not get cold. To limit the amount of water on my skin I use a shower chair and wash my hair first upside with a shower wand. Then I use a soapy washcloth (Cerave Hydrating Bar) to just armpits, bottom, and feet. Then I rinse off quickly with the shower wand. This limits the amount of time I have water running over my skin and use a cooler water temp. Then I apply moisturizer. Helps a lot with preventing dry skin.
I’ve had all the symptoms for 5 years & many tests. My mom & her sisters all have it. I am a fitness instructor & don’t eat much. And still I gained 70 lbs in 3 mo 5 yrs ago. I even lost my eyebrows & lashes
I had all the symptoms for years and drs always dismissed because my ramges were close to normal. You have to keep looking for a doctor that will take you seriously before it gets worse. Trust me, it can get so much worse! I was super active, I even competed in track and field as a sprinter, and it all went to hell because of my symptoms. I had to give it all up. I had to drop out of University because of my symptoms and I used to be an A student and had a grant, all lost thanks to doctors not taking my complaints seriously. I was so depressed because I thought that it was my normal to feel like a pile of useless shit and I had no hope. My symptoms got bad enough that one of my doctors finally took me seriously and was able to diagnose me with the proper test. Have they tested you for thyroid antibodies yet? Because the tests to determine tsh, t4, t3 levels don't cut it for many people. The ranges might seem "normal" but what is normal for some might not be normal for you! Those "normal ranges" were obtained incorrectly anyways!
I am one of those people born with hypopituitarism which gives me hypothyroidism. It’s really annoying when I get told I’m being lazy but in reality I’m half drained from everyday events.
Thank you for mentioning the emotional aspect of hypothyroidism, which can be really terrible. I went to one doctor who wanted to put me on Prozac and said that my TSH of 7.25 was "just a bit out of range" without treating me for it. I told him he was a moron and I didn't go back there.
@@jillholod34 my story is similar to yours: thyroid #’s slightly out of range, depression. My pcp wanted me to see a therapist. I finally saw an endocrinologist and she put me on levothyroxine. When I told my pcp how the meds fixed my depression and other hormonal issues, he told me that wasnt the reason 😐
It is sad that there are so many doctors like this. My story is similar. Women are dismissed constantly. Meanwhile we're out here suffering with autoimmune diseases galore and trying our best to hang in there..taking years for a proper diagnosis. It is infuriating and it needs to stop.
I love how fearless you are to be your natural, beautiful self on camera. Dressed up or down, make up or not, you always radiate this natural, healthy vibe. You give me confidence to be my natural self
Try hyperthyroidism l have had all my life now 83. But l always questioned things since young with the word Why? I became a nurse at 23 but no answers there. So that's when l started researching. Still going strong at almost 84.. Always good to research early.
@beverlyjohnson5315 Thank you, and glad to hear you were able to find out what was going on. I went to the doctor (VA since I'm a retired veteran) just last week and they took blood and found that I have elevated CK levels that are way higher than normal (creatine creation and processing leaking into the bloodstream). It seems I am dealing with a muscle disorder of some kind which is causing weakness, whether that be due to an autoimmune disease or something else. Myositis is what I am hearing is a possibility. Have more upcoming exams and tests scheduled so we will see what happens.
I had chronic hives and carotenemia before being diagnosed with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis at 17. My doctors had NO idea of what was going on at the time and I wish I’d had these resources then, as the aforementioned symptoms resolved with treatment. Thank you for bringing attention to this issue and for all you do!
Thanks for this video Dr Dray! I had my thyroid removed over 10 years ago (i am 37 now) and I struggle with trying to keep my levels right and other complications. I finally found a endocrinologist that I liked. But we have very few where I live. I felt like you were speaking right to me with this video! I can relate to so many things you mentioned. Thank you again! People need to be aware of what their body is telling them. ❤
then I have to say that my dermatologist I've had for years does not really know her job. In fact, many of the skin, nail and hair problems I have that point EXACTLY to my thyroid issues every single doctor, no regard to speciality, have not seen them. I went YEARS before finally diagnosed with Hashimoto's YEARS of dry skin, brittle hair, loss of outer eyebrows,etc. STILL they do not see these things, even when pointed out. At one point for a long while I had jaundiced eyes, brought it to the attention of that physician and they said I did not. I see it, it can go away and come back also, but in 202 it stuck around for a very long time. Now it's back.
So spot on with some of these symptoms. I have fired 2 doctors over their inability to listen to me about my thyroid levels and moods. I have found an integrative health medical doctor who listens and cares. Worth the money. Also, Dr. Dray, could you do a sample morning and evening routine and products for those of us with hypothyroidism?
As a person with Hashimoto’s, thank you. I’ve always wanted to know why my body attacked my thyroid. Maybe someday we’ll have the science and research to answer that.
It is thought to be the fluoride in our water also is thought all autoimmune disease may be caused from leaky gut. To help this I have noticed when I go gluten free I feel much better and making my own fermented foods and drinks defiantly help my energy level.
I was curious about this recently as my late mom had hypothyroidism. I was wondering what were some signs to watch out for that may seem unrelated. Thank you for sharing this information and for helping to educate people on how these things occur and the impact. Not all doctors share this much information during the appointment and that is a disservice to the patients. Thank you Dr. Dray for giving us your time! 💜
I absolutely love your insight into hypothyroidism, as someone who has been diagnosed with Hashimotos for years. I wish you’d touched on the fact that it can cause premature ovarian failure or early onset menopause which is irreversible and can greatly affect your skin. I went through menopause at 29 and that, combined with Hashimotos has my skin requiring extra effort to look young and healthy. At 33 I have my skin and hair finally under control, but I’m post menopausal and will always have to be diligent about skincare and medication.
Wow thanks for sharing I did not know that Hashimoto could cause this. I had it for about 6 years and am now 29.. Crazy what this disease can do to the body!
That had to have felt beyond crazy, being so mentally and physically young, yet going through menopause before 30! I hope that you feel better now! Hormones are NO JOKE! They effect sooo much of our lives!
@@missvelvetorchid1047 I actually noticed the signs of menopause first so I booked an appointment with my pcm to see what was going on with my body. She did a full hormone panel and a thyroid panel then referred me to an endocrinologist. The endo was the one who diagnosed me with Hashimotos, but he said that I’ve likely had it for years and didn’t know. He was able to say with certainty the Hashimotos was causing ovarian failure. It’s not super common, but it does happen to some women. If I’d known the signs of hypothyroidism earlier I would have gone to the dr sooner, and it may not have happened. According to my OB, It’s irreversible once it starts, but can be noticed early and managed with yearly hormone labs. I didn’t catch it in time and based on my hormone levels, I have been post menopausal now for about two years. As long as you’re proactive about getting your regular lab work done you should be okay. The odds are in your favor, it only happens to a smaller percentage of women with Hashimotos. Sending best wishes to you!
I’ve been dealing with 2 autoimmune diseases for about 2 decades now. Hashimoto’s & Primary Ovarian Insufficiency. And while I have had doctors ranging from bad to great, none of them we're able to address my skin issues the way you have. I’ve just ordered the products you use for your nightly foot care routine and will look at your dry skin care routine video. Thanks, Dr. Dray!
Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! This is everything I've been through. There's people that think we make up these symptoms. We don't. Sometimes even doctors underestimate what we ate feeling. They say we need therapy. But it's a relief to know what we are dealing with. There's where we can finally have hope. I'm feeling better now, but when I didn't know, I felt so lost. I thought they would have to put me in a mental institution. Serously.
I have been w low thyroid since I knew something wasn’t right. No doctor related my symptoms w my thyroid.. until years after I have my twins I was sent to a rheumatologist. Before I was diagnosed doctors told me that my fatigue was due my three little children.
I cannot thank you enough for posting this particular topic. I've been a battling butterfly (Hashis pt.) Diagnosed since 2009...probably had it longer but yeah...moving on. January is thyroid awareness month. Tagline is "Check your Neck!". That thing has receptors in Every Part of the Body. Thank you. Thank you. THANK YOU!!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
I was just diagnosed with Hypothyroidism at the beginning of the year. I have most of the symptoms you discussed. Your explanations were very helpful. I’m still working through getting my medication balanced. You are always very reassuring!
I have hypothyroidism also known as Hashimotos Thyroiditis. To get it under control I had to start a Vegan diet with low starch, low sugar and no gluten… also I needed to take bone strengthening vitamins, iron supplements, and start taking cholesterol medication and synthroid. I am doing well now though a year after making these adjustments.
I have every single symptom of hypothyroidism and have seen many doctors, including an endocrinologist, who have all told me my thyroid levels are normal. I’m so frustrated.
Thank you? I had blood work my B12 is off, losing pigment, tiny bald spots, loss of body hair just about everything you said. Oh and t4, idk I've been tired all my life I'm 53 and 😢so glad I finally know. This video is it the last bit of research for me now it's time for healing. Exhausted!
I’ve had a total thyroidectomy in 2015 and a bilateral salpingo oophorectomy in 2023. I have thyroid cancer, anxiety, pancreatitis, diverticulosis, and NAFLD. I’ve also had my gallbladder removed. I’m taking 50mg x 2 Metoprolol and 88mcg Synthroid. My hair has been really thinning or falling out. And I’ve also got lower back issues…when I was young, I fell down some wet steps and I must’ve fractured my lower back. As I get older, it’s been haunting me. I will be 60 in Nov.
Man, this really makes me want to get my thyroid checked. I have so many of the symptoms she listed. And a number of family members have thyroid issues.
My wife only found out about her thyroid issues because she had horrible issues with hives and had to work with doctors a long time before figuring it out. Cool to see that that was mentioned because it didn't seem very well known even by doctors.
I have Systemic Lupus, RA, OsteoArthritis, Hypothyroidism, Sjrogrens and more. 100 mg of Levothroxine every day. Yes, I an shedding hair too! Yes, thinning brows too I also have Chronic Hives. What can I do???? You are the only Dermatologist I trust.
Thank you, Dr Dray! I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s over 10 years ago. I went from finishing menopause to Hashimoto’s. A rough few years. As you mentioned, extreme exhaustion was the symptom that caused me to see my doctor. Happily, he thought to have my thyroid checked by blood tests. It came back as hypothyroid. I was put on levothyroxine. But I still was suffering symptoms and this doctor refused to increase my medicine because my TSH was "within normal range." I then went to a functional medicine doctor, who did the blood test for Hashimoto’s and it came back positive. He gave me dietary advice, which greatly improved many symptoms and my overall health. Thank you for your sympathetic insight into the disease. People minimize it sometimes thinking you just take a pill and all is well. But with Hashimoto’s that is often not true. It is a constant and ongoing struggle to maintain good health. I have researched it extensively, so I can be my own health advocate with doctors. After moving to Poland and over a few years time, I found a few great doctors and I am grateful for their care.
I have hypothyroidism since my early twenties (52 now), supposedly because of the quality of the water of my village at that time (our GP said so...), lived in another country for 10 years, and NEVER EVER EVER, did my endocrinologists (both in Québec and México) give me that much information about this condition !! - THANK YOU SOOO MUCH. - You're a God sent. I've been enjoying your videos for 3 years now, and I just cannot live without them. :) Never stop please :D, you are appreciated, and recommended to everybody I can !
Everything you say about the hair I STILL have even with taking thyroid hormones. It's so bad that I stopped going to get my haircut because the stylists asked me if I had cut my hair with a razor. THAT is how crazy bad the brittle dry breaking off is. Horrid, still have it, no resolve.
I’ve been on LevoTHYROixe for over 14 months and my hair thinning is worsen this past 3 months, very little hair now. I have very high antibodies showing 1.300 every time I have a blood test done. My TSH are normal but so don’t feel any improvement in my other symptoms. Do you have Hashimotos antibodies?
@@terimorris6394 yes I do. RU taking generic Levothyroxine? I had to switch to Synthroid because of my reaction to the generic version. Things have improved but my hair is still somewhat brittle but I do have outstanding health challenges due to my military service also.
Appreciate the education of hypothyroidism. I have been taking medication for over 40 years. Also, I notice how the color of your jewelry and clothing light up your face! You must have a cool skin tone and the colors you have on today bring out your skin's luminosity!
Girl you know more than these MDs and so-called Endocrinologists. Been dealing with this for over 7 yrs and now they need to remove my nodule. Needing recommendations for skin healing products for my dark skin. Wonderful informative video.
I continually told docs I felt like I had hypothyroid symptoms, hair shedding, cold, tired, dry, unbalanced skin, rashes.... all those things you mentioned. Finally got a prescription for levothyroxine and many symptomsimproved. I still have hair loss and coldness. But my concentration improved, rashes cleared. Keep telling your healthcare providers what you believe is going on.
You hit all the spots! I have most of these symptoms. I had Hashimotos years ago and was Hyperthyroid but in the last 30 years, it flipped to hypo. I'm on Armour thyroid and it seems to have it under control now. It's been quite a journey.
Thank you for this. You are so intelligent and compassionate. I have hypothyroidism. It was so bad at one time that my doctor wondered how I was surviving because my heart rate was so low. That was years ago and synthyroid helped. However, I recently was diagnosed with a slightly low thyroid for some reason and my hair is falling out. I am also anaemic. And all have severe Rheumatoid Arthritis. Fun. Take care.
@@bdet313 Hello, it actually took several years to discover the right combination of drugs to arrest the inflammation and pain. I take a biological drug and several others to manage the disease. But to answer your question, my medication change was not recent. You take care. I hope your RA is under control.
It's so important. that you emphasize the emotional toll these kinds of skin issues bring with them. People can blame themselves, or they are misdiagnosed, and suffer a lot because of this. You bring an understanding of how this affects the whole person.
I had a thyroid issue that I believe was diet related. I was on meds for six months but now my diet is better and I haven’t had issues since. I felt nothing but brain fog (not sad, not happy) my skin flaked so bad, my hair stopped growing and started falling out, my breathing was very very slow, my eyes couldn’t refocus quickly, my eyebrows were very short, walking was achey and slow. I got random stomach aches and never ate, I was never hungry, yet I still gained weight. When I did feel an emotion it was sudden anger. My husband became very worried I’d get a case of road rage and I almost did. Medication was affordable even in the US and it started to work very quickly. Please everyone go see a doctor if you have any concerns for yourself. I wasn’t myself and no one should have to live that way. I still get tested, so far so good.
I love this series because it has a lot of practical applications for your everyday viewers and helps us to more easily recognize health problems. Excited to see more like it
I have hypothyroidism and fortunately it hasn't shown itself in my skin, but I've lost a lot of hair. I used to have really thick hair that my hairdresser would always comment on it. I've lost a lot of hair and I've had to cut my hair short because I literally had clumps upon clumps of hair fall after every hair washm
I was diagnosed with Hashimoto's almost 5 years ago. I used to be very skinny, quite underweight, so, when I suddenly gained 8 kilos in less than half a year, everyone was complimenting me saying "you finally look normal". However, to me such a drastic weight gain didn't feel normal. I also had dry skin, my hair was falling out a lot, I felt cold all the time and my memory was foggy. For example, if I was having a conversation about something or I wanted to do something, in the next moment I would totally forget what I wanted to do or say. I booked a doctor appointment and, luckily, the endocrinologist who diagnosed me also agreed that something was not right in all this. I was tested, diagnosed with Hashimoto's and was put on medication right away. It changed my life drastically and it led me into a deep depression (joined by anxiety and panic attacks). And, yes, my face did change and, as compared to before, I also felt often that my voice got slightly deeper. I know that there are many people out there who suffer because of low thyroid levels and for everyone else is different. But it's so frustrating to hear someone disregard your symptoms and say "Oh, I know this person who has thyroid issues and she is fine, nothing serious". For some the symptoms are mild, for others they are more serious - this is what I wish people to be able to understand. At the same time I think that, although there are many people who suffer because of low thyroid levels and there is no known cure for it, this is something that is not talked about a lot. Hence, people are not really aware how difficult of a disease it is. On a positive note, I feel that I was somewhat lucky because I was diagnosed early on. This is why it's so important to listen to your body and go see a doctor if you feel that something is wrong. I felt so well understood just by watching a single video. As always, thank you Dr. Dray.
So what have you done now to alleviate your condition? Did you take a specific kind of medication? Are you fully recovered and how long did it take, if so?
@@potatoes1234 It's a lifelong condition, so you have to take thyroid medication for the rest of your life. I have it and I take Levothyroxine and it's a total game changer.
I agree its worse and more complicated than it sounds, i also have Hashimotos but as far as autoimmune diseases go we win the lottery. The others are way worse!
I saw so many doctors from the age of 12 when my symptoms started becoming unbearable, and yet they always dismissed me. My mom took me to endocrinologist, gastroenterologist, dermatologist, and many general practitioners to check the many different symptoms I had and they all downplayed and dismissed me. One even said it was normal for girls that age to make up things, like what I was feeling, for attention. I stopped going to drs thinking it was just my normal to feel like shit, till I was in my 20s and things just got way worse. Still got dismissed and gaslighted for years. Finally got diagnosed right before my coverage ran out.
Thank you for this!! I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism after my pregnancy at 27 years old. I was told that I don’t have Hashimoto’s and that it was brought on by pregnancy. My doctor at the time basically gave me the medicine and no other information. I made an appointment with an endocrinologist recently (4 years after my diagnosis), and I can’t wait to learn more about what I can do to take care of my body.
THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH! You described me COMPLETELY. I was diagnosed and have undergone treatment for my hypothyroidism and haschimoto disease going on Two years now, without success or relief of ANY symptoms. Three dosage increase of levothyroxine, monthly injections, daily B12, iron supplements with symptoms becoming worse. From a Dermatologist,receiving clear explanations of why these debilating symptoms are happening means so much, when it seems like you're in a battle without a fighting chance.
Recently started thyroid trtmt for low thyroid. Very interesting video. Thank you. I do believe I've had low thyroid for years, for decades even. Have yrly physicals and never, not once was it mentioned. Have been told my symptoms were age related, tho. I got to the point I couldn't even lift my knee to cross my legs & extreme tiredness and weakness for years. Literally could not get out of my recliner or my bed. Odd my two thumbs have skin dryness and cracking at tips, only my thumbs, no where else. The medication is a miracle to me. I feel like doing household chores again and have energy I haven't had in a long time. TY for tbis video.
Very nice knowing the symptoms list but physicians do not hear us, they treat exams not the pacient. I feel ALL these symptoms all my life but my exams was good so physicians refuse to treat me. Now at 42 years old I started to be treated because I found a serious physician and finally I started to LIVE.
Literally watching this while in a Hashimoto sad/depression phase… It makes me so sad that I can’t be who I used to be. More energetic more excited about life too. Good thing I’m going to my Dr to get my levels checked again 🥺
Thank you. My husband was just diagnosed with hypothyroidism and is having his thyroid removed soon. It has been really hard on him until we found out what was wrong.
I have hypothyroidism. It's been several years. I also have pernicious anemia and had carpal tunnel surgery 2 years ago. My Mom had a goiter when I was small and had surgery for it, so I assume my condition is hereditary. I remember she always had very dry skin on her legs. I appreciate that you spoke of the correlation between carpal tunnel and hypo, because that was a connection I didn't know about. Love your videos, Dr. Dray.
I suspect I have hashimoto. My hair is starting to thin out and losing clumps in the shower. I've also had half of my legs lose hair too on the outer sides. It's very strange
Dr. Please do a video on Hyperthyroidism. I have had Graves Disease due to hyperthyroidism for a decade and recently my doctor told me I also have Fibromyalgia. My hair, nails and skin are a mess. There is very few information on Hyperthyroidism/ Graves Disease.
I didn't expect to learn so much about the thyroid from a dermatologist! Thank you for this! I'm one of those who knows something is a problem but my doctor is only looking at TSH and not seeing the full picture. Luckily, I recently found a Functional Medicine dr to work with and hope to have a better idea of what's going on and what to do with that info. This video was so helpful in affirming my suspicions and will help me communicate better with my dr.
Thank you for all the information in this video. I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism almost a year ago and I certainly experienced several of the symptoms you mentioned. Unfortunately in Australia your thyroid has to basically stop before doctors will prescribe medication. In the mean time your hair is falling out, you’re tired, weak, brain fog , putting on weight and depressed. It’s insane.
I live in part of the US and I had the same experience. My thyroid basically had to be non functioning before I got a diagnosis. I was suffering for over a decade, basically begging doctors for help, and was always dismissed. I was suffering all of the symptoms, I basically diagnosed myself before any doctor, and when I told my doctor at the time that I googled my symptoms and believed it was my thyroid, they got super angry at me and basically told me I was just a hypochondriac. When I was a child one doctor told my mom I was probably making up my symptoms for attention, even though some of them were observable, like I had to be rushed to the hospital several times because of impacted gut, and my strange skin symptoms. The depression, debilitating exhaustion and fatigue were observable, but they just labeled me as lazy, even though I was always an A student, that always took on extracurricular activities at school, and had competed for my school in track and field, and only quit because I literally didn't have the energy to be running and sprinting. I maintained my grades and other academic activities till I got into University with a grant, and then my symptoms got worse and I had to drop out of Uni too. My brain fog, and feeling so tired that I fell asleep throughout the day, despite my best efforts, despite sleeping 8 hrs at night. And it seemed like nobody seemed to understand.
Who else is always impressed by how often Doctor Dray Posts?
For REAL!! SMART lady!! Cute, too!
130 lbs weight gain. Horrible cramps /periods. Feeling super anxious. Dry skin and rash that comes snd goes on my face. Feeling like I can’t ever get enough sleep. I had all the symptoms for the last couple yrs. I finally found out this week I have hypothyroidism. I could cry. I finally will be able to get on meds and start feeling better
I hope you went to a different doctor. You should have never suffered for years like that. The doctor you had was totally negligent in diagnosing you
I was born with it not diagnosed with it until my 40s, a heart murmur and jaundice was the first indicators, all the childhood stuff, learning issues, , last in races, no energy and breathless, asthma(thyroid) symptoms, itching in cold weather, bad period’s(thyroid/pituitary, childhood sleep issues(pineal), anxiety(adrenals,thyroid,pituitary), my mums pregnancy stress caused by my dad, all these things affect us, the list goes on.I believe we’re all born with, it’s part any parcel of the stress of survival and the cortisol affecting each generation, the lack of nutrients, needed for the development of our brains and bodies, but the levels dependent of how we deal with stress.
I really appreciate that you mentioned the psychological effects of hypothyroidism. I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety disorder after years of feeling there was something wrong with me. It took a heavy toll on my academic and personal life. I've been taking levothyroxine for three years and it has changed my life for the better. I wish more people got their hormones checked when they feel extremely sad or tired for long periods of time. Thank you for making this information accesible, Dr. Dray.
I understand. I remember being in my Pcp’s office trying to get a prescription for anti depressants and he (& others) telling me I should talk to a therapist, when all a really needed was some levothyroxine!
I'm waiting to hear back from my Dr to get approved for lithium for my bipolar 1 but my blood test showed my TSH was higher than normal. I'm REALLY struggling because I was hoping the lithium would be the miracle cure for me too. My skin has gotten so freaking dry in retrospect and I have no idea when it happened, my cheeks, forehead, arms, legs hands and feet are particularly awful. I've wondered if I've had a thyroid issue for years due to other issues but the Drs and nurses don't seem to take me seriously. 🤷♀️
@@muchasalud2011 Dr igho
How much levothyroxine did they give you? I’m on 50 and still feel off 😔
@@Jacqueline967 Sorry for the late response, I just saw your comment. I'm currently on 50 and I get tested every 6 months to make sure it's working
Thank you so much for "talking up" to your viewers instead of "talking down". I am so thankful for the way you unabashedly dispense medical vocabulary to get your points across. Thank you for believing in the intelligence of your viewers and giving us am opportunity to be more educated on anatomy and physiology. I wish that basic comprehension of human bodily functions were more common knowledge, maybe the ER and Healthcare systems would be less congested if people's understanding were raised to a greater level. They might be less stressed and feel more empowered in their own bodies. Thank you for getting the public a little bit closer to that idealistic reality by not being afraid to talk to us like we are smart (Google is here to help you understand the words she says. Learn Latin roots, prefixes, suffixes, to help understand more medical terminology).
Well put, couldn't agree more!
This is so, so important and yet hardly ever addressed. Education can't stop when you leave school anymore.
Dr. Dray is doing an outstanding job, sharing important knowledge with us and it always feels, like a good friend is talking to you!
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
This has been on my horizon since 2001, when my then Doctor told me I had Hashimotos, but that it would not be treated then , just 'watched'. Here we are in 2023, and I still have all the symptoms you have discussed, but still have not been given help or treatment for the condition. I am overweight, tired, dry skinned and losing my previously thick hair ....spoke to current doc a couple of weeks ago, had more blood tests, but have not had any information, so presumably I just go on waiting....depression is a very real consequence.
Please find a doctor who will listen to you and help you!! Your doctor is getting paid to do nothing for you-- Don't pay for not getting any answer or treatment ❤
Valuable PSA Dr. Dray! One of your RNs here. I can spot a lady with hypothyroidism from across the supermarket. Pale, overweight, baldness/alopecia, dry flaky skin...an affect of depression. I want to run up and suggest that they have a full thyroid panel. Of course I don't, but I send a silent prayer they get tested soon.
What's really horrible is that the total lack of energy/drive makes it so very hard, to even look for help. Never mind persuing a diagnosis, when first possibly not being taken serious by your doctor.
It's just so tragic, when people just suffer completely avoidably 😕
Julia, you are so sweet! I have a feeling God hears your prayers 🙏🏻🥰
I have no problem telling anyone they appear to have thyroid issues. I was checking out at the chiropractor and the receptionist's neck was extremely swollen. I asked her if any of her doctor's have ever mentioned she has a goiter, or tested her thyroid levels. Nope. She has never heard of thyroid issues. She got tested and was diagnosed with severe hashimoto's. She then had her daughter tested with the same results.
I temporarily embarrassed her, but my refusal to stay silent to avoid discomfort rescued her from years of suffering. She spoke at my church this week. Her neck was slim, her skin glowed and she spoke on the miracle she experienced from going from unable to get out of bed each day to the joy of having the energy to keep up with her toddler granddaughter.
Perhaps you could print a mini-PSA on a business card.
"You might have [...] if you have these symptoms: (Bullet point list). Ask your care provider/ care team for these tests: [...]
Good Luck."
My thyroid was removed at 13 and it was huge. I'm 58 and I weigh nothing and I am riddled with many other autoimmune diseases. They've never had my thyroid right.
Spot on analysis of a horrific disease nobody takes seriously.
I really appreciate that you mentioned that people with hypothyroidism are misdiagnosed with depression. I learned that hypothyroidism is the most common cause of depression on the planet as a medical student, long before I became a psychiatrist. Yet virtually every day I see people with untreated or under-treated hypothyroidism referred for “treatment resistant depression.” Their endocrinologists don’t recognize it, let alone their PCPs. Furthermore, there is a LOT of data, going back to the 1980s and regularly replicated in different settings, that treating TSH is critical in all mood disorders. Yet again, at least in the US, psychiatry is the red haired stepchild and “regular” doctors couldn’t care less. Also - apropos that Hertoghe sign (sorry if I misspelled) - this is, believe it or not, one of the questions on the MMPI (a famous personality test) designed to see if people are LYING. IOW, if you “strongly agree” with that statement (“I am missing the outer third of my eyebrow”) you get put into a category of people that answer questions randomly or untruthfully. What a world we live in.
@spacemilk hypothyroidism causes thinning and loss of the outer third of the eyebrows. This is called Hertoghe's sign. It can be the first sign of hypothyroidism and is considered pathognomonic for hypothyroidism. However, on the famous personality test, the MMPI, "I am missing the outer third of my eyebrows," when endorsed, is counted toward the lie scale. Not sure what was so unclear to you.
Thank you so much for giving us such inform ative & validating information
Far too many of us have had deal w/ bias, egoes & inade quate or no treatment. It's been said that patients' BP go up bec we're intimi
dated by "our white jackets." No, w/in 2 mins of entering the exam room, or walking past us in the hallway, you're con
cerned that you waited, for however long it took, just to get another "moron" etc. Again, thank you, on behalf of the many who've had to deal w/ "You need ..." when we knew "No, I know my body, my lifestyle, you are the arrogant, TMN (Toxic Malignant Narcissist etc. You are a blessing to your patients. I wish I could be so blessed!
It took me 8 years of asking to be tested for hypothyroidism and changing doctors 3 times and finally after refusal after refusal I got an at home test kit and went to my new doctor with the results. Yet again I was being fobbed off. My tsh levels were 9.3 and they were trying to tell me I didn't need to start any treatment. I insisted that something HAD to be done as I'm almost bald (51 year old woman), I eat like a bird and I'm 5 stone overweight, my skin is a mess, tired all the time and I've been admitted to hospital on a beautiful August day with hypothermia!! And STILL had to go through 8 bloody years of begging to be tested. Doctors are useless at this. If you think you have thyroid problems go to your doc and DEMAND to be tested and REFUSE to leave the surgery until the test is done. Or get a home test kit like I did. My heart is permanently damaged from the hypothyroidism being left untreated for so long. I'm so angry at Irish "so-called" doctors who do little to help patients and are only interested in the money they get out of you at the end of the consult.
Yes, that’s the truth of it. There are thousands of women who need help and care.
But most doctors not knowledgeable about and we are suffering thanks for information I am real mess up
My TSH was 9.8 at highest, but the other thyroid levels are normal. Does this mean I have hypothyroidism as well?
@@elins9970 Subclinical hypothyroidism. Check out functional medicine doctors on TH-cam about what to do to keep thyroid healthy.
Gut, liver, adrenals are usually the beginning point of hypothyroidism, Hashimotos.
As someone who has post surgical hypothyroidism, that is now resolved (thank goodness), I actually broke down crying when you talked about how taxing it can be on a person. I went years feeling horrible, and it changed my relationships and changed my life. I am in a better place now, but it still feels good to be validated and educated.
I am glad you are in a better place now. Stay strong-good things are coming your way!
I too broke down. I have a lot of these symptoms. I'm getting my thyroid hormones checked. I've been suffering for years
Any recommendations on finding a doctor that will diagnose this even if other things mask basic test results?
What should I do,
@@radiantsunbeam6147 no
I have suffered with thyroid for over 10 years. You are the 1st professional that has explained all my symptoms. Thank you 😊 🙏
I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism since I was 12. My parents weren’t aware that I would constantly skip my daily pill of TSH, I would always take naps after school and be constantly tired in highschool. Fast forward to turning 18 and leaving my home, I went 4 straight years with out taking my TSH and let me tell you... i felt very very depressed & I was falling asleep anywhere.. and everywhere. I looked awful. I’m 25 now and have been taking my pill everydat for 3 years and My energy has been phenomenal. No more naps. I go to the gym 4 days out of the week. Better hair. Better skin. Moral of the story. Please please take your tsh pill everyday. It’s so important!
I’m glad you feel better!💕
I did the same when I was younger! No one explained me, how important these pills are..
@@eveningstar8581 Thank you so much!
@@missvelvetorchid1047 Yes, It's very unfortunate. I'm doing much of my own research into hypothyroidism & have found much more information than any doctor has ever given me.
Can you share your own research?
As a rare person with congenital hypothyroidism, thank you for covering this! At last someone covered hypothyroidism and did not leave out the neonatal type. It is annoying for me, though, because my PCP still writes off a lot of health concerns of mine even with my known condition.
Rachel, find a new doctor, your health is too important to have a dismissive dr.!
I had my thyroid removed 20 years ago due to thyroid cancer - and have been on Synthroid ever since. It’s been smooth sailing, so I want to tell people out there in similar situations that if you follow Drs orders you should be fine.
I was born with hypothyroidism and been on synthroid for like forever lol
Actually my Doctors misdiagnosed me for years. Trust yourself and get a second opinion.
God bless you! I’m so glad that you are healthy and better now💕
If you are unable to get that drug …. What happens ?
Sometimes you follow doctors orders and you get worse. 😢
Dr. Dray - be my endo!!!!! This is something I have been battling for about 15 years now, along with diabetes. (I won't write about how many doctors told me my levels were "normal," despite all of my symptoms.) The fatigue and cold intolerance are my biggest issues, but my dry skin is minimal. However, I "fight back" every day by taking my meds, working out regularly, eating healthy and moisturizing!!! I appreciate your videos! I may be doing some things right, but there's always something I can do better or something else I can learn! Thank you!!!
I wish she was mine too ! :D
Diagnosed with hashimotos when I was around 13-14. I’m 24 now. I was so depressed and my skin, hair, nails were dry. Best thing I did was go on meds, go gluten free, Whole Foods, and focus my energy on things that bring me joy
What meds do you take?
I have Hashimotos and thank you for addressing all these symptoms. Also, I had Covid and it attacked my thyroid, making my Hashimotos much worse.
thank you for sharing, that’s helpful to be aware of. i hope you’re now on the mend.
Yes viruses can do that
OMG Same. I thought I was crazy for thinking this.
Thanks I wonder if that happened to me too. My fatigue and sensitivities got worse
I had Hashimoto's as a teen and nobody understood what was happening to me -- especially me -- and it was pure h***. I wasn't taken to an endocriniologist for almost 2 years. My thyroid was removed in my 20s and in 20 years since I have tried to explain the condition, how it affects someone, why I'm sometimes not as together as other times, why my weight fluctuates and why my hair has thinned. Your video is the best summation of living with this that I have encountered so thank you! Your validation helps a great deal because autoimmune diseases aren't visible (their symptoms sorta are but not like a physical disability) and unless one has been through it -- or treats those patients -- they don't understand. One thing about it though is that it's a great litmus test for friends: if they can't understand it or won't take the time to learn, bye bye. Hypothyroidism is exhausting and I definitely don't have the time to explain my illness to someone over and over and over. Thank you again!
I started noticing those symptoms at around 12 years of age. They labeled me lazy, cranky, attention seeker(even though I was a quiet introvert who hated attention) when I complained about feeling unwell. Even though some of my symptoms were observable, like I had to be taken to the hospital a couple times because of an impaction of my bowels because I couldn't use the bathroom! I probably ate healthier than all the other kids in school, yet drs only ever told me to eat more fiber. I already ate prunes like candy, veggie salad was one of my favorite foods! I was finally diagnosed when my mental fog became so terrible I felt like I was hallucinating. Then one of my doctors actually took me seriously and sent me to get the proper labs that finally lead to my Hashimotos diagnosis. It only took 16 years of me complaining of worsening symptoms and worsening quality of life. So many things I had to give up because of my symptoms. I used to be in track till 7th grade and I just couldn't anymore because I felt so sick, I couldn't finish University because of my brain fog and falling asleep constantly anywhere 😔 I used to be an A student and had a grant and I lost it all as I progressively felt more tired and ill. But drs never took me seriously and made me feel like I was exaggerating or something.
Very similar tale for me to. I am a male and at the age of 16/17 I was taking 2 hot water bottles to bed, had 2 quilts and a blanket on top. I was constantly feeling cold in summer too, my grades started to deteriote because of brain fog and inability to concentrate. However, most of my skin colour became pasty and almost colic. People started to call me yellow head. I started to lose my body hair and completely became covered in pimples and itchy rashes. My hair on my head started to drastically drop out that it caused me severe depression and anxiety.
It wasn't until I stated to feel vertigo and almost collapsed at work that I was finally given a blood test and identified as having low thyroid and being close to death. 14/15 years had past at this stage to get to this point.
I was told it is rare for a male to have under active thyroid, however a male and a teenager as I was, was extremely rare, hence why doctors for many years were very dismissive of my concerns. I started on a dose of 250mg of thyroxine for several years once I had been diagnosed.
@@romeodelta7004 I was jaundiced too! I wonder what's the connection with low thyroid and issues with the liver or red blood cells, because I've heard of people who have a similar problem but I can't find online why it would cause high bilirubin in the blood and urine to the point of jaundice.
Sounds like me to a T ❤
I’m a nurse practitioner and I learned something from this video. Great Video thanks DR. Dray
Love your earrings! I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s a year and a half ago! I suffered for over a year with head to toe hives! All day, everyday!!! No relief! It was during lockdown so I could only see my dermatologist virtually. I was given prednisone for 2 whole months which really reeked havoc on my body! No one knew how to diagnose the hives until I went to the allergist and they took bloodwork and discovered the autoimmune disease. Thank you for doing this video! Hopefully it will help others discover the signs and they won’t have to go what I went through!
It is frustrating to cope with
What an ordeal 😯
Oh man. No one should have to go through stuff like this, which can actually be diagnosed and treated. Hope, you're ok now.
I’ve had Hashimoto’s thyroiditis for almost a decade. It’s well managed at this time by taking 112mcg of levothyroxine a day and a great endocrinologist. My previous PCP failed to properly diagnose and treat it (he didn’t want to treat it at all 🥴). Needless to say I also have a new PCP who is also great. Don’t settle for mediocre care people! Thanks for your content Dr Dray ♥️
Holy moly! I’m sorry you had to deal with that A-hole! Nobody deserves to feel unheard by their doctors! I bet you feel so much better! I’m glad you’re all straightened out now💕
Don't take CBD oil if you're taking Levothyroxine. It counteracts the medicine. In fact don't take CBD at all if you have hypothyroidism, it just makes it worse.
@@loloholmes2793 oh wow!! That’s incredibly interesting! I GUARANTEE YOU that sooo manyyy people don’t know this and are taking it! Thanks for sharing this very helpful information. This will help loads of people 💕
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We Can
Just a note, it can be very difficult to get diagnosed if you have a thyroid disorder, most doctors, even if looking specifically for a thyroid disorder, will only order standard labs, but to really see your thyroid levels you need specialized lab work done. So be prepared to advocate for yourself, likely to multiple doctors, don’t give up and research what tests you’ll need done so you can request them specifically.
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you are exactly right!
A great explanation of what Hypothyroidism is, however not all symptoms are alleviated even when optimally treated.
I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism in college, and my levels were insanely high. Even now, 10+ years later, I'm learning more about how the condition has presented and the side effects that I previously thought were innocuous. I've also had eczema for most of my life, and I've been curious how these impact each other. Thanks for you knowledge!
Did you take hormones then? And what changed?
Hypothyroidism is low thyroid hormone. How could you have this with levels “insanely high” ?
@@suzanneemerson2625basically your body is pushing very hard to get your thyroid to start working properly while also attacking it, the blood test level will end up with high numbers but your thyroid is underactive. If you have very low levels, your thyroid is overactive and consuming all of what your body is giving it leaving not much left to see in blood work
Thank you so much for this video. When I had my radioactive iodine therapy as treatment for hyperthyroid, my elbow length thick hair over the last 3 years is ruined and so are my nails. I asked my family doctor if my low thyroid would have anything to do with that and he said no not at all. I didn't think it sounded right, but that was when i gained weight, hair started breaking and ended up so short and my nails wont grow without breaking. I'll def start taking my meds. Thank you again for this all this info. I never thought i would say I miss my hyperthyroidism lol, I was so skinny, my hair was beautiful but i had hot flashes constantly and went through energy spurts where people thought i was on drugs. The only reason I had it treated was because of a growth on my thyroid
I am 58. Was diagnosed with low thyroid after birth of my child when I was 36. I have taken medication (frequent testing to maintain proper levels) since diagnosis… BUT… I still have ALL the symptoms listed here. I have recently been diagnosed with MCAS. I have been tested for many autoimmune conditions… all negative. Sometimes my ANA is positive, sometimes not. I have been told that I do not have Hashimoto’s.
Omg you just described my hypothyroidism symptoms that I never connected to my condition. Half my thyroid was removed 7 years ago due to a large goiter& I was put on Synthroid & have labs done every 6 months but my endocrinologist never discussed any symptoms of hypothyroidism with me. From the cold hands & feet, the outer eyebrow hair loss & hair loss in general, brittle nails, sluggish metabolism, omg I had no idea. Thank u so much Dr. Dray.
I cant tell you how appreciative I am of this video. 2 months into the beginning of Covid and the shut in, my thyroid went crazy. All the symptoms but I really saw it I could barely walk when I would first get up, having soreness in both feet. Then it started happening to both hands. To this day, I still cant bend my left 3 fingers due to the swelling that is still there. I cant lift weights, take clothes out of the wash, open lids, etc. All the things we take for granted. I was tested and my levels were off the charts and I was positive for Hashimotos. I do believe I have congenital hash as I have always had a huge intolerance to cold (I used to get teased for it), heart palpitations, and my growth was so slow (17 lbs at 3 yrs old) and I've always been very tiny. Until covid hit and my hash came out, I gained 25 lbs in 2 months and to this day cant get it off. I'm on the medication for the thyroid and they have taken the severity or edge off but I still cant use my hand much and the muscle pain is awful sometimes. I've also always been oily skinned and when it hit hard, my skin went dry, irritated, flaky. Something I had never had before. Now, I have an extensive skin routine because I have to and my skin glows now. My HMO did and still does nothing about my symptoms except a little pill that doesnt do much so I really appreciate you making people aware. It's no joke.
You just described my Hashimoto thyroiditis the last year. I found out after my third baby. Thank you for shedding light on this disease and its challenges.
As a mother and graduate student, it has been very challenging. I found a functional MD, and she has helped turn my life around.
Thank you so much. I tried to tell my doctor that I had this problem but she said no. But I finally talked her into giving me a low dose of medicine.
Thank you Dr. Dray!!! I had a full thyroidectomy summer of 2021 and three months later developed carpal tunnel on both wrist and forearm which still have. I told my thyroid doctor and my pcp and they keep telling me it's not related. This video is so validating!!
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I watched this on the TV. Lord, I thank you for my health. However, when it comes to my skin it's ok, but I am tired, hair loss, pain in my joints, they said my hormones were ok. I don't like when I don't get to see the papers with the results. But wow, may God be with all going through this horrible situations.
I have Hashimoto’s and have changed my shower routine to accommodate. I use an extra heater to warm up the bathroom so I can use lower temp water and not get cold. To limit the amount of water on my skin I use a shower chair and wash my hair first upside with a shower wand. Then I use a soapy washcloth (Cerave Hydrating Bar) to just armpits, bottom, and feet. Then I rinse off quickly with the shower wand. This limits the amount of time I have water running over my skin and use a cooler water temp. Then I apply moisturizer. Helps a lot with preventing dry skin.
Try Bend goat milk soap, helps a lot!
Please do a video on hyperthyroid and the skin hair and nails
I’ve had all the symptoms for 5 years & many tests. My mom & her sisters all have it.
I am a fitness instructor & don’t eat much. And still I gained 70 lbs in 3 mo 5 yrs ago. I even lost my eyebrows & lashes
I had all the symptoms for years and drs always dismissed because my ramges were close to normal. You have to keep looking for a doctor that will take you seriously before it gets worse. Trust me, it can get so much worse! I was super active, I even competed in track and field as a sprinter, and it all went to hell because of my symptoms. I had to give it all up. I had to drop out of University because of my symptoms and I used to be an A student and had a grant, all lost thanks to doctors not taking my complaints seriously. I was so depressed because I thought that it was my normal to feel like a pile of useless shit and I had no hope. My symptoms got bad enough that one of my doctors finally took me seriously and was able to diagnose me with the proper test. Have they tested you for thyroid antibodies yet? Because the tests to determine tsh, t4, t3 levels don't cut it for many people. The ranges might seem "normal" but what is normal for some might not be normal for you! Those "normal ranges" were obtained incorrectly anyways!
I am one of those people born with hypopituitarism which gives me hypothyroidism. It’s really annoying when I get told I’m being lazy but in reality I’m half drained from everyday events.
Thank you for mentioning the emotional aspect of hypothyroidism, which can be really terrible. I went to one doctor who wanted to put me on Prozac and said that my TSH of 7.25 was "just a bit out of range" without treating me for it. I told him he was a moron and I didn't go back there.
Did you ever get it sorted out? I'm in exactly the same position
@@orangerelram1982 Yes, I did. But I had to figure it out myself.
@@jillholod34 my story is similar to yours: thyroid #’s slightly out of range, depression. My pcp wanted me to see a therapist. I finally saw an endocrinologist and she put me on levothyroxine. When I told my pcp how the meds fixed my depression and other hormonal issues, he told me that wasnt the reason 😐
It is sad that there are so many doctors like this. My story is similar. Women are dismissed constantly. Meanwhile we're out here suffering with autoimmune diseases galore and trying our best to hang in there..taking years for a proper diagnosis. It is infuriating and it needs to stop.
7.25 is hardly "just a bit out of range." Prozac for that? So glad you didn't go back.
I love how fearless you are to be your natural, beautiful self on camera. Dressed up or down, make up or not, you always radiate this natural, healthy vibe. You give me confidence to be my natural self
When the Doctor started naming all the symptoms...THOSE ARE LITERALLY ALL THE SYMPTOMS I EXPERIENCE REGULARY!
Try hyperthyroidism l have had all my life now 83. But l always questioned things since young with the word Why? I became a nurse at 23 but no answers there. So that's when l started researching. Still going strong at almost 84.. Always good to research early.
@beverlyjohnson5315 Thank you, and glad to hear you were able to find out what was going on. I went to the doctor (VA since I'm a retired veteran) just last week and they took blood and found that I have elevated CK levels that are way higher than normal (creatine creation and processing leaking into the bloodstream). It seems I am dealing with a muscle disorder of some kind which is causing weakness, whether that be due to an autoimmune disease or something else. Myositis is what I am hearing is a possibility. Have more upcoming exams and tests scheduled so we will see what happens.
I had chronic hives and carotenemia before being diagnosed with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis at 17. My doctors had NO idea of what was going on at the time and I wish I’d had these resources then, as the aforementioned symptoms resolved with treatment. Thank you for bringing attention to this issue and for all you do!
That's how I was diagnosed!
Thanks for this video Dr Dray! I had my thyroid removed over 10 years ago (i am 37 now) and I struggle with trying to keep my levels right and other complications. I finally found a endocrinologist that I liked. But we have very few where I live. I felt like you were speaking right to me with this video! I can relate to so many things you mentioned. Thank you again! People need to be aware of what their body is telling them. ❤
then I have to say that my dermatologist I've had for years does not really know her job. In fact, many of the skin, nail and hair problems I have that point EXACTLY to my thyroid issues every single doctor, no regard to speciality, have not seen them. I went YEARS before finally diagnosed with Hashimoto's YEARS of dry skin, brittle hair, loss of outer eyebrows,etc. STILL they do not see these things, even when pointed out. At one point for a long while I had jaundiced eyes, brought it to the attention of that physician and they said I did not. I see it, it can go away and come back also, but in 202 it stuck around for a very long time. Now it's back.
So spot on with some of these symptoms. I have fired 2 doctors over their inability to listen to me about my thyroid levels and moods. I have found an integrative health medical doctor who listens and cares. Worth the money. Also, Dr. Dray, could you do a sample morning and evening routine and products for those of us with hypothyroidism?
As a person with Hashimoto’s, thank you. I’ve always wanted to know why my body attacked my thyroid. Maybe someday we’ll have the science and research to answer that.
Thanks for watching
I just got diagnosed with Hashimoto’s
It is thought to be the fluoride in our water also is thought all autoimmune disease may be caused from leaky gut. To help this I have noticed when I go gluten free I feel much better and making my own fermented foods and drinks defiantly help my energy level.
@@trishabee2229 not necessarily! Mine was caused by a viral infection that attacked my thyroid and my immune system went after my thyroid
It runs in families and can be inherited - both my mother and aunt had it and I have it too - medication helps a lot.
I was curious about this recently as my late mom had hypothyroidism. I was wondering what were some signs to watch out for that may seem unrelated. Thank you for sharing this information and for helping to educate people on how these things occur and the impact. Not all doctors share this much information during the appointment and that is a disservice to the patients. Thank you Dr. Dray for giving us your time! 💜
Super informative. Endocrinologists should actually watch this. Thank you.
I absolutely love your insight into hypothyroidism, as someone who has been diagnosed with Hashimotos for years. I wish you’d touched on the fact that it can cause premature ovarian failure or early onset menopause which is irreversible and can greatly affect your skin. I went through menopause at 29 and that, combined with Hashimotos has my skin requiring extra effort to look young and healthy. At 33 I have my skin and hair finally under control, but I’m post menopausal and will always have to be diligent about skincare and medication.
Wow thanks for sharing I did not know that Hashimoto could cause this. I had it for about 6 years and am now 29.. Crazy what this disease can do to the body!
The same happened to me at 37. Best wishes to you.❤
That had to have felt beyond crazy, being so mentally and physically young, yet going through menopause before 30! I hope that you feel better now! Hormones are NO JOKE! They effect sooo much of our lives!
I hope You dont mind me asking- that happened because of misdiognosed Hashimoto of wrong prescribed doses of medication? I also have Hashimotos..
@@missvelvetorchid1047 I actually noticed the signs of menopause first so I booked an appointment with my pcm to see what was going on with my body. She did a full hormone panel and a thyroid panel then referred me to an endocrinologist. The endo was the one who diagnosed me with Hashimotos, but he said that I’ve likely had it for years and didn’t know. He was able to say with certainty the Hashimotos was causing ovarian failure. It’s not super common, but it does happen to some women. If I’d known the signs of hypothyroidism earlier I would have gone to the dr sooner, and it may not have happened. According to my OB, It’s irreversible once it starts, but can be noticed early and managed with yearly hormone labs. I didn’t catch it in time and based on my hormone levels, I have been post menopausal now for about two years. As long as you’re proactive about getting your regular lab work done you should be okay. The odds are in your favor, it only happens to a smaller percentage of women with Hashimotos. Sending best wishes to you!
I’ve been dealing with 2 autoimmune diseases for about 2 decades now. Hashimoto’s & Primary Ovarian Insufficiency. And while I have had doctors ranging from bad to great, none of them we're able to address my skin issues the way you have. I’ve just ordered the products you use for your nightly foot care routine and will look at your dry skin care routine video. Thanks, Dr. Dray!
Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! This is everything I've been through. There's people that think we make up these symptoms. We don't. Sometimes even doctors underestimate what we ate feeling. They say we need therapy. But it's a relief to know what we are dealing with. There's where we can finally have hope. I'm feeling better now, but when I didn't know, I felt so lost. I thought they would have to put me in a mental institution. Serously.
I have been w low thyroid since I knew something wasn’t right. No doctor related my symptoms w my thyroid.. until years after I have my twins I was sent to a rheumatologist. Before I was diagnosed doctors told me that my fatigue was due my three little children.
I cannot thank you enough for posting this particular topic. I've been a battling butterfly (Hashis pt.) Diagnosed since 2009...probably had it longer but yeah...moving on.
January is thyroid awareness month. Tagline is "Check your Neck!".
That thing has receptors in Every Part of the Body.
Thank you. Thank you. THANK YOU!!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
I was just diagnosed with Hypothyroidism at the beginning of the year. I have most of the symptoms you discussed. Your explanations were very helpful. I’m still working through getting my medication balanced.
You are always very reassuring!
Thanks for this video. I have hypothyroidism. So frustrating doctors don’t listen to you when you have hypothyroidism
Dr. Dray, you are the best teacher. Thank you so much for this valuable information. This is must watching for everyone!
I have hypothyroidism also known as Hashimotos Thyroiditis. To get it under control I had to start a Vegan diet with low starch, low sugar and no gluten… also I needed to take bone strengthening vitamins, iron supplements, and start taking cholesterol medication and synthroid. I am doing well now though a year after making these adjustments.
No medication?
Interesting...
A clear, no-nonsense presentation. Very informative. Thank you.
I have every single symptom of hypothyroidism and have seen many doctors, including an endocrinologist, who have all told me my thyroid levels are normal. I’m so frustrated.
Thank you? I had blood work my B12 is off, losing pigment, tiny bald spots, loss of body hair just about everything you said. Oh and t4, idk I've been tired all my life I'm 53 and 😢so glad I finally know. This video is it the last bit of research for me now it's time for healing. Exhausted!
Was misdiagnosed with depression for years when it was really hypothyroidism. 😖
I’ve had a total thyroidectomy in 2015 and a bilateral salpingo oophorectomy in 2023. I have thyroid cancer, anxiety, pancreatitis, diverticulosis, and NAFLD. I’ve also had my gallbladder removed. I’m taking 50mg x 2 Metoprolol and 88mcg Synthroid. My hair has been really thinning or falling out. And I’ve also got lower back issues…when I was young, I fell down some wet steps and I must’ve fractured my lower back. As I get older, it’s been haunting me. I will be 60 in Nov.
Please do a Hyperthyroidism video. Thanks for the amazing videos 🙂
Man, this really makes me want to get my thyroid checked. I have so many of the symptoms she listed. And a number of family members have thyroid issues.
My wife only found out about her thyroid issues because she had horrible issues with hives and had to work with doctors a long time before figuring it out. Cool to see that that was mentioned because it didn't seem very well known even by doctors.
After watching this I can’t help but feel there are many undiagnosed thyroid issues in this country.
it is pretty common
@@DrDrayzday i can relate to some of these symptoms! The flags in the brain go up!
It's the sparkle dangling earrings for me ! 👍🏼
I have Systemic Lupus, RA, OsteoArthritis, Hypothyroidism, Sjrogrens and more. 100 mg of Levothroxine every day. Yes, I an shedding hair too! Yes, thinning brows too I also have Chronic Hives. What can I do???? You are the only Dermatologist I trust.
Thank you, Dr Dray! I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s over 10 years ago. I went from finishing menopause to Hashimoto’s. A rough few years. As you mentioned, extreme exhaustion was the symptom that caused me to see my doctor. Happily, he thought to have my thyroid checked by blood tests. It came back as hypothyroid. I was put on levothyroxine. But I still was suffering symptoms and this doctor refused to increase my medicine because my TSH was "within normal range." I then went to a functional medicine doctor, who did the blood test for Hashimoto’s and it came back positive. He gave me dietary advice, which greatly improved many symptoms and my overall health. Thank you for your sympathetic insight into the disease. People minimize it sometimes thinking you just take a pill and all is well. But with Hashimoto’s that is often not true. It is a constant and ongoing struggle to maintain good health. I have researched it extensively, so I can be my own health advocate with doctors. After moving to Poland and over a few years time, I found a few great doctors and I am grateful for their care.
I have hypothyroidism since my early twenties (52 now), supposedly because of the quality of the water of my village at that time (our GP said so...), lived in another country for 10 years, and NEVER EVER EVER, did my endocrinologists (both in Québec and México) give me that much information about this condition !! - THANK YOU SOOO MUCH. - You're a God sent. I've been enjoying your videos for 3 years now, and I just cannot live without them. :) Never stop please :D, you are appreciated, and recommended to everybody I can !
This was an amazing video! I have Hashimoto’s and it’s hard to explain to ppl the level of fatigue and other symptoms you go through.
Everything you say about the hair I STILL have even with taking thyroid hormones. It's so bad that I stopped going to get my haircut because the stylists asked me if I had cut my hair with a razor. THAT is how crazy bad the brittle dry breaking off is. Horrid, still have it, no resolve.
I’ve been on LevoTHYROixe for over 14 months and my hair thinning is worsen this past 3 months, very little hair now. I have very high antibodies showing 1.300 every time I have a blood test done. My TSH are normal but so don’t feel any improvement in my other symptoms. Do you have Hashimotos antibodies?
@@terimorris6394 yes I do. RU taking generic Levothyroxine? I had to switch to Synthroid because of my reaction to the generic version. Things have improved but my hair is still somewhat brittle but I do have outstanding health challenges due to my military service also.
Appreciate the education of hypothyroidism. I have been taking medication for over 40 years. Also, I notice how the color of your jewelry and clothing light up your face! You must have a cool skin tone and the colors you have on today bring out your skin's luminosity!
Girl you know more than these MDs and so-called Endocrinologists. Been dealing with this for over 7 yrs and now they need to remove my nodule. Needing recommendations for skin healing products for my dark skin. Wonderful informative video.
I continually told docs I felt like I had hypothyroid symptoms, hair shedding, cold, tired, dry, unbalanced skin, rashes.... all those things you mentioned. Finally got a prescription for levothyroxine and many symptomsimproved. I still have hair loss and coldness. But my concentration improved, rashes cleared. Keep telling your healthcare providers what you believe is going on.
You hit all the spots! I have most of these symptoms. I had Hashimotos years ago and was Hyperthyroid but in the last 30 years, it flipped to hypo. I'm on Armour thyroid and it seems to have it under control now. It's been quite a journey.
Hey,did you have voice problems,or swollen lips?. Thanks
Wow Dr. Dray! You're absolutely glowing!! Love the earrings 💖
Thank you for this. You are so intelligent and compassionate. I have hypothyroidism. It was so bad at one time that my doctor wondered how I was surviving because my heart rate was so low. That was years ago and synthyroid helped. However, I recently was diagnosed with a slightly low thyroid for some reason and my hair is falling out. I am also anaemic. And all have severe Rheumatoid Arthritis. Fun. Take care.
I have RA and low thyroid as well. Did you recently start a new RA medication or change dosage?
@@bdet313 Hello, it actually took several years to discover the right combination of drugs to arrest the inflammation and pain. I take a biological drug and several others to manage the disease. But to answer your question, my medication change was not recent. You take care. I hope your RA is under control.
@@aprilmacdonell2682 it is, thank you 🙏🏾
It's so important. that you emphasize the emotional toll these kinds of skin issues bring with them. People can blame themselves, or they are misdiagnosed, and suffer a lot because of this. You bring an understanding of how this affects the whole person.
I had a thyroid issue that I believe was diet related. I was on meds for six months but now my diet is better and I haven’t had issues since.
I felt nothing but brain fog (not sad, not happy) my skin flaked so bad, my hair stopped growing and started falling out, my breathing was very very slow, my eyes couldn’t refocus quickly, my eyebrows were very short, walking was achey and slow. I got random stomach aches and never ate, I was never hungry, yet I still gained weight.
When I did feel an emotion it was sudden anger. My husband became very worried I’d get a case of road rage and I almost did.
Medication was affordable even in the US and it started to work very quickly.
Please everyone go see a doctor if you have any concerns for yourself. I wasn’t myself and no one should have to live that way. I still get tested, so far so good.
Thank you for being so informative. I have been treated for hypothyroidism for almost two years and you have been the most helpful and encouraging.
I love this series because it has a lot of practical applications for your everyday viewers and helps us to more easily recognize health problems. Excited to see more like it
I have hypothyroidism and fortunately it hasn't shown itself in my skin, but I've lost a lot of hair. I used to have really thick hair that my hairdresser would always comment on it. I've lost a lot of hair and I've had to cut my hair short because I literally had clumps upon clumps of hair fall after every hair washm
Same. A brushful of hair every time.
The struggle is real.. despite the maintenance meds☹️
I was diagnosed with Hashimoto's almost 5 years ago. I used to be very skinny, quite underweight, so, when I suddenly gained 8 kilos in less than half a year, everyone was complimenting me saying "you finally look normal". However, to me such a drastic weight gain didn't feel normal. I also had dry skin, my hair was falling out a lot, I felt cold all the time and my memory was foggy. For example, if I was having a conversation about something or I wanted to do something, in the next moment I would totally forget what I wanted to do or say. I booked a doctor appointment and, luckily, the endocrinologist who diagnosed me also agreed that something was not right in all this. I was tested, diagnosed with Hashimoto's and was put on medication right away.
It changed my life drastically and it led me into a deep depression (joined by anxiety and panic attacks). And, yes, my face did change and, as compared to before, I also felt often that my voice got slightly deeper.
I know that there are many people out there who suffer because of low thyroid levels and for everyone else is different. But it's so frustrating to hear someone disregard your symptoms and say "Oh, I know this person who has thyroid issues and she is fine, nothing serious". For some the symptoms are mild, for others they are more serious - this is what I wish people to be able to understand. At the same time I think that, although there are many people who suffer because of low thyroid levels and there is no known cure for it, this is something that is not talked about a lot. Hence, people are not really aware how difficult of a disease it is.
On a positive note, I feel that I was somewhat lucky because I was diagnosed early on. This is why it's so important to listen to your body and go see a doctor if you feel that something is wrong.
I felt so well understood just by watching a single video. As always, thank you Dr. Dray.
So what have you done now to alleviate your condition? Did you take a specific kind of medication? Are you fully recovered and how long did it take, if so?
@@potatoes1234 It's a lifelong condition, so you have to take thyroid medication for the rest of your life. I have it and I take Levothyroxine and it's a total game changer.
I agree its worse and more complicated than it sounds, i also have Hashimotos but as far as autoimmune diseases go we win the lottery. The others are way worse!
@@JennyT101 but people with one autoimmune disease will often develop others.
I saw so many doctors from the age of 12 when my symptoms started becoming unbearable, and yet they always dismissed me. My mom took me to endocrinologist, gastroenterologist, dermatologist, and many general practitioners to check the many different symptoms I had and they all downplayed and dismissed me. One even said it was normal for girls that age to make up things, like what I was feeling, for attention. I stopped going to drs thinking it was just my normal to feel like shit, till I was in my 20s and things just got way worse. Still got dismissed and gaslighted for years. Finally got diagnosed right before my coverage ran out.
Thank you for this!! I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism after my pregnancy at 27 years old. I was told that I don’t have Hashimoto’s and that it was brought on by pregnancy. My doctor at the time basically gave me the medicine and no other information. I made an appointment with an endocrinologist recently (4 years after my diagnosis), and I can’t wait to learn more about what I can do to take care of my body.
I was told the same thing; that I got hypothyroidism from pregnancy. But I noticed I’ve had the symptoms for years.
THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH! You described me COMPLETELY. I was diagnosed and have undergone treatment for my hypothyroidism and haschimoto disease going on Two years now, without success or relief of ANY symptoms. Three dosage increase of levothyroxine, monthly injections, daily B12, iron supplements with symptoms becoming worse. From a Dermatologist,receiving clear explanations of why these debilating symptoms are happening means so much, when it seems like you're in a battle without a fighting chance.
I have hypothyroidism. Thank you for explaining why I have a low body temperature and why my hands and feet are always cold.
Recently started thyroid trtmt for low thyroid. Very interesting video. Thank you. I do believe I've had low thyroid for years, for decades even. Have yrly physicals and never, not once was it mentioned. Have been told my symptoms were age related, tho. I got to the point I couldn't even lift my knee to cross my legs & extreme tiredness and weakness for years. Literally could not get out of my recliner or my bed. Odd my two thumbs have skin dryness and cracking at tips, only my thumbs, no where else. The medication is a miracle to me. I feel like doing household chores again and have energy I haven't had in a long time. TY for tbis video.
Very nice knowing the symptoms list but physicians do not hear us, they treat exams not the pacient.
I feel ALL these symptoms all my life but my exams was good so physicians refuse to treat me. Now at 42 years old I started to be treated because I found a serious physician and finally I started to LIVE.
Literally watching this while in a Hashimoto sad/depression phase… It makes me so sad that I can’t be who I used to be. More energetic more excited about life too. Good thing I’m going to my Dr to get my levels checked again 🥺
Im on 100 mcg of thyroid meds but still have all the symptoms.
Thank you. My husband was just diagnosed with hypothyroidism and is having his thyroid removed soon. It has been really hard on him until we found out what was wrong.
I have hypothyroidism. It's been several years. I also have pernicious anemia and had carpal tunnel surgery 2 years ago. My Mom had a goiter when I was small and had surgery for it, so I assume my condition is hereditary. I remember she always had very dry skin on her legs. I appreciate that you spoke of the correlation between carpal tunnel and hypo, because that was a connection I didn't know about. Love your videos, Dr. Dray.
I suspect I have hashimoto. My hair is starting to thin out and losing clumps in the shower. I've also had half of my legs lose hair too on the outer sides. It's very strange
Dr. Please do a video on Hyperthyroidism. I have had Graves Disease due to hyperthyroidism for a decade and recently my doctor told me I also have Fibromyalgia. My hair, nails and skin are a mess. There is very few information on Hyperthyroidism/ Graves Disease.
I JUST got an ultrasound of my thyroid because I have been having issues. WOW great timing!
I didn't expect to learn so much about the thyroid from a dermatologist! Thank you for this! I'm one of those who knows something is a problem but my doctor is only looking at TSH and not seeing the full picture. Luckily, I recently found a Functional Medicine dr to work with and hope to have a better idea of what's going on and what to do with that info. This video was so helpful in affirming my suspicions and will help me communicate better with my dr.
Please do a video on hyperthyroidism too.
Thank you Dr. Gray for this video! Can you also do a video on the opposite, hyperthyroidism?
Thank you for all the information in this video. I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism almost a year ago and I certainly experienced several of the symptoms you mentioned. Unfortunately in Australia your thyroid has to basically stop before doctors will prescribe medication. In the mean time your hair is falling out, you’re tired, weak, brain fog , putting on weight and depressed. It’s insane.
I live in part of the US and I had the same experience. My thyroid basically had to be non functioning before I got a diagnosis. I was suffering for over a decade, basically begging doctors for help, and was always dismissed. I was suffering all of the symptoms, I basically diagnosed myself before any doctor, and when I told my doctor at the time that I googled my symptoms and believed it was my thyroid, they got super angry at me and basically told me I was just a hypochondriac. When I was a child one doctor told my mom I was probably making up my symptoms for attention, even though some of them were observable, like I had to be rushed to the hospital several times because of impacted gut, and my strange skin symptoms. The depression, debilitating exhaustion and fatigue were observable, but they just labeled me as lazy, even though I was always an A student, that always took on extracurricular activities at school, and had competed for my school in track and field, and only quit because I literally didn't have the energy to be running and sprinting. I maintained my grades and other academic activities till I got into University with a grant, and then my symptoms got worse and I had to drop out of Uni too. My brain fog, and feeling so tired that I fell asleep throughout the day, despite my best efforts, despite sleeping 8 hrs at night. And it seemed like nobody seemed to understand.