Thyroid Issues: Unraveling Diarrhea and Irregular Periods at 21 - Breast and Thyroid

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Thyroid issues can manifest in various ways, and it’s understandable to feel confused when symptoms don’t align with typical expectations. In your case, you are experiencing diarrhea, irregular menstrual cycles, and weight gain, while your blood tests indicate low thyroid hormone levels, leading to a diagnosis of hypothyroidism and the prescription of Eltroxin (levothyroxine).


Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Diarrhea and Hypothyroidism: While it is true that hypothyroidism is commonly associated with constipation, it can also lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea in some individuals. This paradox can occur due to several reasons:
- Gut Motility: Hypothyroidism can affect gut motility, leading to irregular bowel movements. Some patients may experience alternating patterns of constipation and diarrhea.

- Dietary Factors: Changes in diet or the introduction of new foods can also lead to diarrhea. If you have altered your diet recently, this could be a contributing factor.

- Other Conditions: It’s also possible that another underlying condition, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or an infection, could be causing your diarrhea.
2. Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle. Hypothyroidism can lead to irregular periods or even amenorrhea (absence of menstruation). The hormonal imbalance caused by low thyroid levels can disrupt the normal functioning of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, which are critical in regulating menstrual cycles.

3. Weight Gain: Weight gain is a common symptom of hypothyroidism due to a slowed metabolism. However, it’s important to note that weight changes can also be influenced by other factors, including lifestyle, diet, and stress levels.


Treatment with Eltroxin
Eltroxin is a synthetic form of thyroxine (T4) that helps to normalize thyroid hormone levels in the body. The dosage you mentioned (50 mcg daily, with an increase to 100 mcg on Sundays) is a common starting point. It may take several weeks to months for your body to adjust to the medication and for symptoms to improve.

Monitoring and Follow-Up
1. Symptom Improvement: It’s important to monitor your symptoms as you begin treatment. While some individuals may notice improvements in energy levels and mood within a few weeks, gastrointestinal symptoms may take longer to resolve. Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider is essential to adjust the medication dosage as needed.

2. Further Investigations: If diarrhea persists despite treatment, further investigations may be warranted. This could include tests for food intolerances, infections, or other gastrointestinal disorders.

3. Lifestyle Considerations: In addition to medication, consider dietary adjustments that may help manage your symptoms. Keeping a food diary can help identify any potential triggers for your diarrhea. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet rich in fiber can also support digestive health.


Conclusion
In summary, while hypothyroidism is typically associated with constipation, it can also lead to diarrhea in some cases. Your symptoms of irregular periods and weight gain align with hypothyroidism, and the prescribed Eltroxin should help normalize your thyroid levels over time. It’s crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider, monitor your symptoms, and make any necessary lifestyle adjustments to support your overall health. If symptoms persist or worsen, further evaluation may be needed to rule out other underlying conditions.