Postpartum Thyroiditis

[E_Browne]

Following the birth of my son I had postpartum thyroiditis. I took beta blockers to control the heart palpitations and got my TSH levels checked for the following 12 months. My TSH levels returned to normal relatively quickly and have remained between 1.0 and 2.0. My last TSH level was 1.2. Unfortunately, while my TSH levels remain within normal range I still have symptoms that could suggest thyroid problems. I have heart palpitations, night sweats, carpal tunnel syndrome, swollen eyelids, loss of eyelashes and general hair loss. I had my antibodies checked recently and they are still elevated. My endocrinologist informs me that there is nothing wrong with my thyroid and the other symptoms I am having are entirely independent of my thyroid and he wants me to have them all investigated separately! Is there a possibility that even after 19 months since the birth of my son my thyroid could still be causing me problems? My endo relies heavily on the the numbers of my TSH and never really listens to how I feel. I would like the opportunity to possibly have another baby soon but I am reluctant to do this until I know that I am healthy enough. Please help!

[Nurse Dianne Wright]

Unfortunately your endocrinologist must go by your thyroid levels despite your symptoms. He probably is listening to you but as you know your TSH is absolutely normal so there is no room to treat your thyroid.
Your recent antibody results are irrelevant at the moment, however you must be aware that when you become pregnant again then your original thyroid problem may arise again either before or post pregnancy or you may not have any problems at all.
I agree that you need to get your other symptoms investigated separatly.

Good luck

Dianne Wright
Specialist Nurse in Endocrinology