• Profile picture of Julie

    Julie posted an update in the group Group logo of Autoimmune DisordersAutoimmune Disorders 1 year, 3 months ago

    I’ve known for a while I am hypothyroid–got diagnosed several years ago and was taking generic synthroid for a while. But when the prescription ran out, I was on really cheap insurance, so I didn’t bother going back to the doctor to get it renewed. Now I have moved to Europe and have health care again, and I want to take better care of myself. I recently got a bunch of bloodwork done, including a full thyroid panel. Everything in the total blood count came out normal, and the thyroid abnormalities were as follows:
    T4: .807
    TSH: 7.97
    antithyroglobulin antibodies: 159

    Apparently I have to go to an endocrinologist to get an ”official” diagnosis and prescription, but it seems clear to me that I have Hashimoto’s. My question is, if I get adequate hormone replacement therapy, does the autoimmune disease continue to attack my thyroid as time goes on?

    • Profile picture of Dr. Hyman Nutrition Staff
      Dr. Hyman Nutrition Staff replied 1 year, 3 months ago

      Hi Julie,

      Glad you can go back on some Rx for thyroid replacement. We suggest Armour- a combo of T3 & T4. The autoimmune does not necessarily stop because of this. We suggest following Dr. Hyman’s protocol for autoimmune conditions:http://drhyman.com/blog/conditions/how-to-stop-attacking-yourself-9-steps-to-heal-autoimmune-disease/

      Are you off gluten? GLuten has been shown to tax the immune system, thus fueling the flames of inflammation and perpetuating thyroid issues. For more dietary help with Hashimotos, please visit us at nutrition coaching!

      In good health!
      Lizzy
      Nutrition Coaching Program

      • Profile picture of Julie
        Julie replied 1 year, 3 months ago

        Thanks for the reply. I have an appointment for this Friday. Do you happen to know if Armour Thyroid is available in Europe, or if there’s a similar natural alternative? I’m already working on cleaning up my diet, and I’m also hoping to get some blood tests done for celiac disease. According to what I find online, it seems that IgA, tTGA, and AEA are the best tests for gluten sensitivity–any other suggestions for facilitating the right diagnosis?

        • Profile picture of Dr. Hyman Nutrition Staff
          Dr. Hyman Nutrition Staff replied 1 year, 3 months ago

          HI Julie,

          Inquire about these tests:
          ✧✧IgA antigliadin antibodies
          ✧✧IgG antigliadin antibodies
          ✧✧IgA antiendomysial antibodies
          ✧✧Tissue transglutaminase antibody (IgA, and IgG in questionable cases)
          ✧✧Total IgA antibodies
          ✧✧HLA DQ2 and DQ8 genotyping for celiac disease (used occasionally)

          Some pharmacies seem to compound armour. If not, look for naturethyroid.

          Hope this helps!
          Please let us know how we can further support you.

          In good health!
          Lizzy
          Nutrition Coaching Program