[annkd]

Low Thyroid! Yup. And it was my dermatologist who asked me to have it checked. I went in to get a mole removed and left with low thyroid. That explains my fatigue, weight gain, etc. I'll be starting yet another med soon. The depression has eased up a bit. I started painting again and that has been a wonderful way to spend my hours. I've even started drinking my morning tea again! Maybe the winter won't be so bad after all. :jump-for-joy: -

Ann

[Shelley Ensz]

Hi Ann,

Congrats on getting the low thyroid nailed down. Now you'll always have the joy of managing your thyroid levels, but they do tend to stabilize either sooner or later. See our Thyroid Involvement page.

I also love to paint. You know how it is, we often think we need to be in the mood to paint, but actually I've found it to be just the opposite. I just start doing it, and that is what raises my spirits. So usually mid-winter I sign up for an open studio course at one of our local art centers, so that I also get out of the house even when I'm not inclined to. The first session always puts me in a bit of a fuss, as of course then I am completely dry of ideas but just the deadline eventually forces me to think up something. It took me decades to realize that the only important part of artwork is enjoying it like a little child, so when I'm at a complete loss I just merrily doodle or splash or fingerpaint, anything at all to splash a little color around.

The rest of the year, I don't usually have much problem just painting or doing hobbies. Mid-winter though the blahs can set in, the sort of blahs that wouldn't rate as full blown seasonal affective disorder but just plain blah blah's...especially here in Minnesota, even among the hardiest souls. You know, those lucky ones who already have perfect thyroid levels!

[lizzie]

Hi Ann, glad that that you have found an explanation for the weight gain and fatigue and that your are also feeling less depressed. I do have to admit to feeling a little envious though- I keep hoping that my weight gain and fatigue is due to low thyroid- but disapointingly the blood levels always come back normal- is clearly just due to gluttony and sloth! I know that thyroxine takes a while to kick in - but hope you are soon feeling slimmer and livelier!
Lizzie

[Amanda Thorpe]

Hello Ann

I'm glad you now know what problems you can attribute to the thyroid and that you're now going to get treatment for it. We never want another illness but it is great when we get an answer to our symptoms. :emoticons-yes:

Take care.

[debonair susie]

This is so wonderful, Ann!

I'm doing the "Happy Dance"! I can only imagine how pleased you were :happy-day:

It's so great that you paint...what a great relaxation for you!

...and enjoying your morning tea once more.

This is so great...Congratulations!

[Snowbird]

I'm glad you found an answer too Ann...even though it does mean another medication...but, hopefully, it will be under full control for you soon!

[Sweet]

Hi Ann,
I'm so glad things are looking up. I hope that you will soon be feeling better!