Need encouragement...feeling discouraged...hypothyroid

I was recently started on a low dose of thyroid meds (hypothyroid). I've been experiencing symptoms for about a year or so, but when they got worse a couple months ago I finally decided to go back to the doctor 2-3 weeks ago and that's when I started meds. I've been so fatigued that just getting through the day is a challenge. I have 3 kids and a husband and don't get much sleep either which I'm sure doesn't help. I'm actually one of those weirdos that loves to workout, but I haven't been able to get a good workout in since probably September. I went about 6 weeks without exercising due to illnesses and then the fatigue. It's just so discouraging not being able to workout. And of course that affects my eating too. I haven't been completely off the wagon, but I eat more crap than I should. It's so depressing. I just want to feel better...right now...and get back to normal life and continue losing weight. I need these meds to kick in...like right now! Anyone ever go through this? How long til your meds kicked in and you started feeling better?

Replies

  • I'm 19 years old and have a thyroid problem as well. I have carpel tunnel in both wrists. Though its calmed down I know its not the only problem I have.

    I started this just a few days ago. But I am back home for a school break and I'm as discouraged and depressed as ever. My parents play a big role and though I've talked to them, their comments seem like second nature to them. I'm not on meds for thyroid but I do have meds to keep me somewhat all around energized during the day. They're not working well
  • After starting thyroid medication it took me about 4 weeks for a noticeable change in energy/motivation level. But it did help once they kicked in. Just follow the instructions and take them on an empty stomach 30-60min before breakfast
  • niceMarly
    niceMarly Posts: 89 Member
    I hope we can all motivate/encourage each other.....
    I have no thyroid (beat the Big C) and take 175 mcg of Levothyroxin........my right knee is totally shot; I am waiting for the call for complete knee replacement surgery but the list is over a year long.....I had been doing the recumbent bicycle and swimming for the past eight months, but now the knee is just too painful (back to using a walker) and I have completely lost my motivation to swim.....I've lost quite a bit in the past eleven months, but I am terrified that I will put it back on....I even have been "snacking" on bread again....
    I wonder if we call can form our own "personal" support group....we could check in daily to help with the depression of our journey....I am on here every night....

    Marly
    (btw, I'm a single Mom, 53, in northern Ontario, Canada and would find it interesting to speak to other people from other parts of the world)
  • bodiva88
    bodiva88 Posts: 308 Member
    It takes a while, because they start you on a lower dose and work you up until your levels reach a healthy range. But it DOES happen. Hypothyroid affects not only your energy, but your sleep (ironic, huh?), digestion, skin, hair--it's systemic. So I know it's a hard row to hoe. But when you get to the point where your levels are good, you'll feel so much better and you WILL have the energy to work out and your sleep will get better.

    Good luck to you. And good for you for going and taking care of it. It will make a big difference.
  • cari4jc1
    cari4jc1 Posts: 233
    I am definitely learning a lot lately. I was worried that something was major wrong with me, but found out that the major hair loss (I'm only 29), crazy water retention and...ahem...constipation all have to do with the thyroid too.

    Thank you all for responding. Feel free to add me as a friend those that that want to. The encouragement is definitely needed lately. It's so hard to stay on point with nutrition when I don't have the exercise to go with it. Not even to mention that it's Christmas time...oye vey!