AboutDr. Tara Kompare, Pharm.D. Expertise I can answer a broad range of questions related to community pharmacy practice. My particular
interests include childrens` health and safe medication use for seniors. As the mother of two small children, I am quite knowledgable on many parenting issues from how to handle
a baby with colic to how to get kids to take their medicine. With regards to medication use in seniors, I can answer questions about adverse effects, drugs to generally avoid
in that population, and disease management issues.
Experience I entered the world of pharmacy as a technician for approximately six years. I then went on to receive my Doctor of Pharmacy degree and now work for the Federal Government as an outpatient pharmacist.
Publications Drug Topics Feb.2006 edition ("Why a Kiddie Corner Makes Sense"),
I also recently submitted an article to Pharmacy Times entitled "How to Help Parents Cope With Colic" which is scheduled for publication in the near future.
Education/Credentials B.S. Biology (Old Dominion University 1997)
Pharm.D.(Virginia Commonwealth University 2002)
Question Hi
I am 58,no health issues except for an extremely slow metabolism.
I have always been this way,I have to eat around 1500 calories a day or I will balloon,in spite of being very active.
My doctor checked my thyroid levels anf they came back normal.He says I dont need any medication,just exercise more and watch what I eat.I dont think he believes how little I eat and how active I actually am.
I am convinced that I AM hypothyroid.
I have tried various 'natural' thyroid boosters like L Tyrosine to no avail.
I am thinking of ordering Synthroid online.
What do you suggest?
Answer Hi Carl,
I totally understand your frustrations! I have heard the same thing from many of my patients--they feel tired, sluggish, are gaining weight, and eating less. It is,unfortunately, a common frustration and one that seems to often accompany us getting older.
When we age, our metabolism slows and it sounds like you are doing everything right. You may actually be depriving yourself of some calories. I always suggest eating larger servings of fresh or frozen veggies and less starches as sides. Instead of 2 servings of rice, one serving of veggies, and 6oz of grilled chicken, maybe try 2 or 3 servings of the veggies, 1/2 serving of the carbohydrate/starch, and a lean meat to your liking.
Despite the fact that your weight issues are probably just due to the glorious aging process, I would recommend a second opinion. Try to see another MD and tell him or her your symptoms and concerns.Many doctors today are using a different scale to determine whether or not someone is hypothyroid. What I will tell you to definitely avoid is ordering synthroid online without a doctors supervision. This can be very dangerous and could lead to heart arrhythmias, etc.
Some other symptoms often associated with low thyroid levels are: fatigue, intolerance to cold, dry skin, hair loss, and, of course,unexplained weight gain.
I wish you all the luck in the world! Keep on exercising and eating well and hopefully you will feel better soon...
