Expert: Karen Brawner - 3/19/2004

Question
Hi Karen,

Not sure if you can help me here...

My family has a horrible history with thyroid problems (My mom, grandma, and grandfather).  I've been trying to lose weight for over a year, and have been exercizing often, and eating healthy.  My trainer can't believe that I haven't lost any weight, but I haven't lost a single pound.  My mom suggested that I do some research on the thyroid issue.  I'm only 20, and I am male - everything I find is either info for females, or middle aged men.  I don't want to go to the doctor sounding like a hypo chondriac, so any info you could provide, I would appreciate!

Answer
Dear Steve,   With a family history like you have of thyroid disease, it is very possible that you too have a thyroid malfunction...  Age does not play a role in thyroid disease and even infants and children, male and female, can have thyroid problems....

I would STRONGLY suggest that you get an appointment with an Endocrinologist...  This is a specialist who deals with ALL endocrine gland functions including the thyroid...  He/she is better educated in what to look for, the tests needed to determine if there is a thyroid or pituitary thing going on here, and better educated to read the test results than a GP or Family Doctor or an Internist....  This doctor can also check you for possible diabetes which is another endocrine disease which can also cause a person NOT to loose weight when they eat healthy and exercise...  You just simply need to see a doctor and get some blood work done.

Thank you,   karen