Hello everyone,

I have been using the Thyroid Message Board because I have had problems with my Thyroid in the past and had it removed in June of this year. However, following an appointment with my Endo last week, he said that the symptoms I have (which I've had for nearly four years now) can't all be related to my thyroid issues (some of them can). Am gutted, as I don't know what "this" is and I can't now see an end to it. My main symptoms are:

Very bad short-term memory.
Confusion/sometimes saying the wrong word for something/can’t think of the word to use.
Headaches – back of head and down neck – feels like I’ve been hit over the back of the head with a hammer, won’t go away with painkillers.
Shortness of breath – get headaches because it feels like I’m not getting enough oxygen.
Recurrent ear infections.
Recurrent water infections (only this year).
Tinnitus.
Pain in and behind right eye, double vision, difficulty focusing.
Sensitivity to light and sound.
Dizziness/unbalanced.
Brain fog – feeling very spacey.
Extreme coldness.
Extreme tiredness, very little energy.
Dry skin.
Tingly lips.
Shaky hands.
Constipation.
Frequent urination.
Nausea.
Shivers up and down legs.
Stumbling rather than walking – feels like I’m walking on uneven ground/bouncy floor (haven’t been able to wear heels for nearly 3 years!).
Numbness in legs and feet.
Unsteadiness on feet.
Difficulty standing up for long periods of time – feel faint.
Feeling “low” like I need sugar.
Bad cramps in legs – especially at night.
Bad joint pains – especially in feet.
Palpitations.
Feeling panicky – especially in crowded situations/when alone.
Feeling down and not myself.
Affecting my quality of life, restricting what I can/can’t do socially.

I have noticed that some of these symptoms can indicate FM - in anyone's opinion do you think this is the problem? If so, would an Endo be able to diagnose me?

It all started after collapsing twice out of nowhere and being diagnosed with a viral infection. Has gone downhill ever since. My painful joints especially.

I am currently hypothyroid, but am being treated for this with meds.

Sorry if I'm in the wrong place and sorry for such a long post, I just don't know what to do anymore. Am rapidly losing patience and the will!

Many thanks,

Fran:)

hi fran,
even if you don't have fibro, welcome, ya know? may i suggest an inernist? since you have thyroid issues she/he can handle that as well. take a copy of the list you made for us to the doc. diagnosing fibro is a process of ruling out all other illnesses as well as tender point sensitivity. also a rheumatologist if you choose. for myself i find my internist is most capable of handling all my goodies. i also have rheumatoid arthritis, have had a few strokes, and a bunch of other junk including thyroid.
take a deep breath and know there is support here always. you can do this. never, never give up on yourself. without you beliving in you, who will? you are your own advocate. stay proactive in your health care. i know it takes a ton of energy. it will be worth it later. honest.
peace,
bluelakelady

Hi Bluelakelady,

Many thanks for your warm welcome and words of encouragement. Not sure if we have internists in the UK, but will push the symptoms at my next Endo appointment in January. I'm just desperate for a diagnosis, I think I'd feel better if I actually knew what it was and I could then deal with it. You're right I know, I need to believe in myself and be strong, it's just difficult sometimes!

Thanks for your help,

Fran:)

giggle, my mom would say difficult is my middle name. as a child that was not a compliment. it is now!!!! you never know what you have inside till you need it. you will amaze yourself.
peace,
bluelakelady