What Important Life Lesson Thyroid Disease Taught You
Listen to what your body is telling you. When I was finally diagnosed with thyroid disease, my TSH was 110. I had been to the family doctor who told me I was fine. My T4 was fine. I went back to my gynecologist, and he said he would refer me to an obesity clinic.
Once on medication, I was very nervous which was not normal for me. Finally, I found a doctor who put me on Armour 23 years ago. I was no longer anxious and nervous.
Don't blame yourself for the symptoms. That's what they are, symptoms. They are not you. A doctor may have an opinion, but your body will give you the answer.
How Has This Lesson Changed Your Life?
I have seen physicians who insisted I should be on Synthroid or the equivalent. These T4 medicines do not work for me. I become very anxious or depressed. I had one physician drop me as a patient because at her insistence I tried levoxyl. I became terribly depressed. When I called her, I was told by her resident I had to stay on it for at least 2 weeks before blood could be drawn to see what my levels were. I thought I could handle it but finally said to myself, "Why?"
I put myself back on Armour when I could not get a hold of the endocrinologist. When I told her I was back on Armour, she dropped me as a patient because she does not believe in Armour. However, I felt great.
I am my own advocate. Some physicians probably see me as bossy, opinionated or very assertive. However, as open as I am to new ideas and therapies, I know when something is not working for me.
Advice
- Find a physician who is respectful, imaginative and thoughtful. A physician who understands what works for you and listens to you will assist you on your road to good health. He or she is worth their weight in gold.
