Thoughts on hypothyroidism testing

April 29, 2011 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: Quite a while ago, you published a letter from a person who inquired about whether he or she should be treated for hypothyroidism with a TSH level of 6.7.

Hypothyroidism is rampant in my family. I think it is important to identify the consequences of untreated hypothyroidism, which include a greater likelihood of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and early-onset dementia.

Also, it is worthwhile to note that the European standards for diagnosing hypothyroidism are much narrower than in this country. In Europe if a person’s TSH is higher than two, he or she is diagnosed with hypothyroidism. If it is between one and two, the person may have it. If it is less than one, the person definitely does not have it.
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Is hypothyroidism linked to high cholesterol?

March 26, 2011 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: My cholesterol is very high. I cannot tolerate any of the statins. I’ve been on many and have problems with pain and weakness in my legs.

I also have an underactive thyroid, for which I take Synthroid. I have read in different medical books that hypothyroid disease is a cause of high cholesterol. I am trying to eat right (fruits and vegetables, no red meat, low salt and no cheese). I exercise. Is there anything else I can do to help this serious problem? Please help me!

DEAR READER: Hypothroidism causes decreased metabolic activity and has been linked with elevated blood levels of cholesterol, and particularly in those people [Read more...]

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Recent articles can be found on website

February 19, 2011 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: Some time ago, you had an article in my local newspaper about an underactive thyroid. I cut it out and was happy to finally get some information about the thyroid gland.

I found out my son is borderline, and I wanted to give him the article but I put it away so good I can’t find it.
I’m 88 years old and have had an underactive thyroid for 40 years. I’m doing great. Thank you.

DEAR READER: Try having your son log onto my website, www.AskDrGottMD.com. In the search bar at the top right of the home page, he should type in “underactive thyroid.” The article should pop up for his review. Good luck.

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