Managing Hyperthyroidism Medications: Concerns About Side Effects and Alternatives
Side effects of hyperthyroidism medications? I have Graves' disease and have been taking PTU for 14 years. In March of this year, I was diagnosed with P-ANCA vasculitis. I stopped taking PTU due to concerns about its side effects. I have previously taken methimazole and carb...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Vasculitis caused by methimazole is less common than that caused by PTU. If radioactive iodine treatment is not acceptable, the only option is to try using methimazole in combination with antihistamines.[Read More] Managing Hyperthyroidism Medications: Concerns About Side Effects and Alternatives
Managing Thyroid Hormone Levels: From Hypothyroidism to Hyperthyroidism
Hypothyroidism to Hyperthyroidism Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed with anti-microsomal antibodies at a titer of 1:1600 in 2009, and my T4 and TSH levels were normal, indicating Hashimoto's thyroiditis (hypothyroidism). From 2009 to June 2021, I took Eltroxin 50 mcg daily, but ...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: Since everyone's situation is different, some people resume medication after stopping or reduce the dosage. It depends on individual circumstances for adjustments. Regarding the other issue, it requires an in-person evaluation to provide a response, so I cannot addres...[Read More] Managing Thyroid Hormone Levels: From Hypothyroidism to Hyperthyroidism
Understanding Autoimmune Thyroiditis: Medication Effects and Specialist Care
Autoimmune diseases Hello, Doctor. I have autoimmune thyroiditis and have been taking Methimazole and Levothyroxine for over a year. I also have a history of hyperthyroidism, but I have not taken medication for over 15 years. My thyroid-related indices have been regularly monitor...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. Here is my response: 1. There should be no correlation between the use of Dexamethasone, Bilastine, and thyroid dysfunction. 2. If there have been recent abnormalities in thyroid function but no symptoms are present, you may consider asking your...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Thyroiditis: Medication Effects and Specialist Care
Understanding Chest Tightness in Hyperthyroidism and Heart Valve Issues
Chest tightness issue? Hello, doctor. I am a patient with hyperthyroidism, and my only symptom is a slightly elevated heart rate. I also have a problem with mitral valve insufficiency. Currently, I am controlling my hyperthyroidism with medication, taking two tablets of methimazo...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, there could indeed be many causes for your breathing difficulties. It may be necessary to check your blood oxygen levels; if they are abnormal, you should be cautious about potential lung or heart issues. However, since you have already undergone...[Read More] Understanding Chest Tightness in Hyperthyroidism and Heart Valve Issues
Persistent Breathing Difficulty and Chest Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Shortness of breath lasting for one week + occasional chest pain? On the night of the 7th, I woke up feeling somewhat short of breath for no apparent reason. I hadn't turned on the air conditioning, and it didn't feel like my usual nasal congestion, but it felt very obs...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems that the main issue is subjective discomfort. I recommend measuring your body temperature and blood oxygen levels. If both are normal, you may consider an outpatient consultation. It could be caused by anemia or hyperthyroidism. However,...[Read More] Persistent Breathing Difficulty and Chest Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Urticaria: Allergic Reactions or Medication Side Effects?
Is it simple urticaria, a drug allergy, or a side effect of antithyroid medication? I started experiencing hyperthyroidism on April 2nd and began taking Levothyroxine, one tablet twice a day, and Metoprolol, one to two tablets daily. On April 20th, a Bartholin gland cyst recurred...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: Cephalosporins and penicillins have similar structures, and individuals who are allergic to one type have a 10-20% chance of being allergic to the other type of antibiotic. Therefore, it is indeed possible that you may also have an allergy to penicillin antibiotics. It is ...[Read More] Understanding Urticaria: Allergic Reactions or Medication Side Effects?
Understanding Urine Ketones and Bilirubin: Diabetes or Hyperthyroidism?
Urine ketones 3+ Hello Doctor, during my health check in November last year, my urine ketones were (+/-), urine bilirubin was (-), T4 levels were normal, and TSH was slightly low. In late February this year, I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. In early April, during my health c...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
An increase in urine ketones may be caused by fasting or starvation. If it persists, you can consult a metabolic specialist. An increase in urine bilirubin can be evaluated by a hepatobiliary specialist for further investigation and monitoring.[Read More] Understanding Urine Ketones and Bilirubin: Diabetes or Hyperthyroidism?
Understanding Thyroid Disorders: Managing Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism
Thyroid issues? The patient has been receiving treatment for hyperthyroidism (without exophthalmos) for many years and is taking medication for both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Recently, he has experienced increased shortness of breath. The original physician believes thi...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Some physicians may allow patients with thyroid autoimmunity to take both antithyroid medications and thyroid hormone replacement therapy simultaneously. This approach varies from person to person. If respiratory symptoms are present but cardiology evaluations show no significant...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Disorders: Managing Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism
Understanding Heart Palpitations: When to Seek Medical Advice
Cardiac issues Hello, doctor. A few days ago, I experienced symptoms of chest tightness. After searching online, I found that palpitations can be felt as a noticeable heartbeat. However, for several years, I have been able to feel my heartbeat almost all the time when I am still ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Hello: The sensation of feeling one's heartbeat is referred to as palpitations. There are many situations that can cause palpitations, commonly including life stress, tobacco and alcohol use, and even changes in temperature. Certain medical conditions are also associated wit...[Read More] Understanding Heart Palpitations: When to Seek Medical Advice
Thyroid Health: Can Herbal Soups and Warm Foods Help Hyperthyroidism?
Thyroid Diet Doctor, if I have hyperthyroidism, is it okay to drink traditional Chinese herbal soups or eat foods that are more warming and nourishing?
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
There are many types of herbal tonics, and without objective evidence, their use is not recommended.[Read More] Thyroid Health: Can Herbal Soups and Warm Foods Help Hyperthyroidism?
Normal Thyroid Levels but Still Experiencing Hair Loss: Possible Causes and Solutions
Thyroid indices are normal, yet hair loss persists? Hello, doctor. Last year, I experienced sudden and abnormal hair loss and was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. I have been managing the symptoms with medication, and my lab results have been normal during follow-up visits. Howeve...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
There are many factors that contribute to hair loss. Depending on your situation, you may want to consider thyroid medications and conditions unrelated to the thyroid. Certain thyroid medications may potentially lead to hair loss. As for conditions outside of the thyroid, there a...[Read More] Normal Thyroid Levels but Still Experiencing Hair Loss: Possible Causes and Solutions
Can Symptoms of Hypothyroidism from Hyperthyroidism Treatment Return to Normal?
Can symptoms of hypothyroidism that occur during the treatment of hyperthyroidism return to normal? I have had hyperthyroidism for over ten years, during which I did not actively seek treatment and did not restrict my diet, resulting in consistently high levels (TSH undetectable,...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
It is important to lower thyroid antibodies, as this can reduce the risk of developing heart disease or osteoporosis in the future. As for symptoms such as difficulty concentrating and poor mental clarity, a consultation with a neurologist may be advisable.[Read More] Can Symptoms of Hypothyroidism from Hyperthyroidism Treatment Return to Normal?
Can You Take Supplements While on Hyperthyroid Medication?
Hyperthyroidism medication issues? Hello Dr. Lee: I would like to ask if I can take dietary supplements while currently on medication for hyperthyroidism. Will there be any interactions? If there are no interactions, how long should I wait between taking the two? Thank you, Dr. L...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Please take dietary supplements at least two hours apart from antithyroid medications.[Read More] Can You Take Supplements While on Hyperthyroid Medication?
Managing Hair Loss During Hyperthyroidism Treatment: Causes and Solutions
Hyperthyroidism issues? I have hyperthyroidism and have been on medication for about six months. My blood test results are currently normal. I take 2 tablets of Inderal and half a tablet of Carbizo daily, but my hair continues to fall out. I would like to ask the doctor if these ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Typically, hair loss will improve after the thyroid antibodies return to normal. If hair loss persists, please consult a dermatologist.[Read More] Managing Hair Loss During Hyperthyroidism Treatment: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Low TSH Levels: Should You Be Concerned?
Low TSH levels? Hello, doctor! A few years ago, I had a cold and visited a traditional Chinese medicine clinic. After taking my pulse, the practitioner suggested that I might have hyperthyroidism. I then went to a large hospital to see an endocrinologist, and my blood test result...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
You can retest in three months. If both TSH levels are low, it may indicate thyroid autoimmunity. Additionally, you can test for TSH receptor antibodies; if abnormal, it may suggest Graves' disease.[Read More] Understanding Low TSH Levels: Should You Be Concerned?
Thyroid Fine Needle Aspiration: What to Know Before Your Procedure
Thyroid fine-needle aspiration biopsy? Hello Dr. Lin, My mother (70 years old) has been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and has been advised to undergo a fine needle aspiration biopsy of the thyroid (and neck mass). The consent form mentions that anticoagulant use is a contraindi...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Generally, a thyroid ultrasound is performed first, followed by a fine needle aspiration biopsy of the thyroid. It is recommended to inform the physician performing the biopsy beforehand.[Read More] Thyroid Fine Needle Aspiration: What to Know Before Your Procedure
Understanding Insomnia After Hyperthyroidism Treatment: What to Expect
Hyperthyroidism and insomnia? I have been treated for hyperthyroidism for four months. Last week, my test results were normal. Since the onset of hyperthyroidism, I have been experiencing insomnia. I would like to ask the doctor, if my levels are normal, shouldn't my sleep a...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Based on my experience with outpatient patients, after successful treatment of hyperthyroidism, insomnia tends to gradually improve. If insomnia persists, it may be advisable to consult a physician specializing in psychosomatic medicine.[Read More] Understanding Insomnia After Hyperthyroidism Treatment: What to Expect
Understanding Hypothyroidism: Heart Palpitations and Treatment Insights
Hypothyroidism and Palpitations Hello Dr. Lee, I would like to ask you a question. Last year, I underwent an advanced health check-up and was diagnosed with hypothyroidism. I am currently taking one tablet of Eltroxin 50 mcg. I often experience severe palpitations and sometimes h...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Palpitations are often a symptom of hyperthyroidism. When taking thyroid hormone, thyroid function should be monitored every three months to determine if it is normal and whether lifelong medication is necessary. Regular blood tests are required to assess this.[Read More] Understanding Hypothyroidism: Heart Palpitations and Treatment Insights
Understanding High Thyroid Antibodies: Risks and Implications for Treatment
Thyroid antibody issues? Hello Doctor: I have some questions regarding thyroid antibodies. (1) If all three thyroid antibodies (Anti-THYG, Anti-TSHR, Anti-TPO) are elevated, is it possible for hyperthyroidism to improve and then lead to hypothyroidism? (2) If I undergo radioactiv...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
1. Some individuals may experience hyperthyroidism in their youth, which can later transition to hypothyroidism in old age. 2. Radioactive iodine treatment and TPO antibodies can both lead to hypothyroidism; therefore, it is essential to regularly monitor thyroid function after...[Read More] Understanding High Thyroid Antibodies: Risks and Implications for Treatment
Understanding Thyroid Dysfunction: Impact on Fertility and TSH Levels
Hypothyroidism issues? Six months ago, I had a premarital health check-up and my TSH level was 1.57 uIU/mL, which is normal. Recently, while preparing for pregnancy and taking traditional Chinese medicine, I had another test (on the second day of my menstrual cycle) and my TSH le...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: Regarding your question, here is the explanation: If TSH levels are abnormal (elevated), you should consult an endocrinologist to check Free T4. Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can affect the secretion of FSH, LH, and HCG, potentially leading to infertility. For he...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Dysfunction: Impact on Fertility and TSH Levels