New girl!

[Penny]

I am sure that I am not sticking to the correct format, but I am new and couldn't find a category where I could give my 'story'.
 
I am 58 years old and have struggled with hypothyroid symptoms for 20 years.  Time after time I was sent for tests and each time they came back plumb normal!  It was about six years ago when I read about Hashimotos and insisted on being tested for antibodies.  I was told that I was borderline, but nothing to worry about, just check it from time to time, and I have done that.  I think twice in the past six years my level was in the intermediate bracket and I had to be rechecked in three months time, when they had reverted to normal.  My question is:  is this the nature of the beast, or do I not have Hashimotos after all? 
 
I have been told there is nothing to be done about treatment as my throxine levels are normal but if my levels had been persistently high then my thyroid would have to be removed, which sounded a bit drastic!
 
Can anyone recommend anything for the day to day symptoms:  sluggishness, brain fog, hair loss, joint pain, etc.

[Mo]

Hello Penny,

I'm so glad to "meet you" and apologize for the delay in reply. We are a bit slow in getting this board up to speed so please forgive me. I am looking forward to the support I know we have here but we have all been a bit shy to post regularly. I believe there are a few of us here that would love to give you support.

Before I answer your main question (how to manage the symptoms), can I ask what your numbers were? The traditional doctors tend to give you ballpark words and expect you to trust them on them. I think it really matters what your particular practicioner calls "normal" and "intermediate bracket". I've never heard of the second term - I'm not sure it exists to tell you the truth. It could be his way of saying, "I don't really want to diagnose you" because of the likelihood of fluctuation.

I could say one thing though without knowing the numbers: This is definately "the nature of the beast" with this disease. It does fluctuate and high antibody count does create symptoms on it's own. I think it takes another sufferer to confirm this. But, it would be best to hear your numbers before we go on. Most of us would have a comment on what we believe classifies a diagnoses of Hashimotos. So, if you can, please give us some details on those numbers. Also, can you tell us what "normal TSH" is to your doctor and what your history of TSH numbers has been? That is also controversial in this disease.

I will be able to answer you faster this time because I am setting my options to notify me of replies.

Looking forward to getting to know you.

Mo