I am new here. THis year starting in April I got very sick. It started with fatigue and joint pain and then was joined with rapid weight gain and hair loss, among other things. I have been through every test and all that has come up is a positive ANA (anti nuclear antibody) test. I am at a loss and what's worse is that the doctors are too. Most of them think it is in my head by now.
The worst symptom, other than the pain, is the weight gain. Not only is it annoying but it is confusing as well. Every day i wish it were as easy as going on a diet but i can't do that. How can someone go on a diet when they only eat 600 calories to begin with. That's right, I only eat 600 calories a day and sometimes even less. This is what's confusing; i gained almost 40 lbs. in two months eating only 600 calories.
If you have any idea what's causing all my symptoms i would be forever grateful.
PS- have been tested for cushings, thyroid disease, CT scan of neck/stomach/pelvis, MRI of brain, x-ray of chest, heart echo, breathing test, and too many blood tests to count.......... and i am already being treated for hypothryroidism (cytomel + synthroid)
Have you been tested for Lyme or other tick-borne illness? If they did an ELISA test, it's not the most accurate and often gives false negative results. I'd suggest heading over to the Lyme Disease forum and talking to the folks there. They're very supportive, informed and love to share info.
Is an endocrinologist monitering your thyroid dosage? Not a regular MD, but an endocrinologist. All of your symptoms *could* be due to your thyroid disease.
Yes. I recently switched from 125 mcg of Synthroid only to 88mcg synthroid and 10 mcg cytomel. My endo doesn't think my thyroid is the only prob but was willing to give me cytomel to see if i'd feel better on it. I'm also going to another endo soon just to make sure everything is under control endocrine wise. Thank you for your help.
Have you seen a rheumatologist? They can often diagnose when other doctors are stumped. Also, are there any teaching hospitals within driving distance? I would call them and ask that they see you as soon as they have an opening. Good Luck!
Help (ain't too proud to beg) 
