About Karen Brawner Expertise I will answer any questions you have regarding the thyroid whether it be cancer, cysts (types), hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, blood tests for thyroid problems, surgery, fine needle biopsies etc...
Experience My complex cysts on my right thyroid gland and the isthmus were found my accident when my doctor thought I was having a TIA. The ultrasound found a complex cysts the size of a golf ball (which turned out to be the size of a tennis ball when it was surgically remove). Doctors were totally surprised because for 5 years, including the day I went to surgery, all of my thyroid blood work was "within the normal range". So much for blood work being conclusive..
Question I have been told by my doctor that I have an underactive thyroid and am on thyroxine 150. I am also very much overweight and am finding it really hard to lose weight which I must do for a back problem. Can you tell me what effect thyroid has on weight and will it be possible for me to lose weight?
Answer Dear Chris, Having an underactive thyroid also known as hypothyroidism, is probably your main cause of gaining weight.... Unfortunately, just because you have been put on a thyroid hormone like thyroxine, this does NOT mean that you will automatically loose weight... In some cases, the weight you have will stay.... However, you can do something to help.....
You see the thyroid problem messes up the entire body metabolism which inturn causes the weight gain... You MUST go on a calorie watching diet and elimate as much sweets, fats, and other calorie counters as possible... You must also exercise... With a back problem this will be difficult, but you MUST set a goal of at least walking... Start out slow with short distances and then work your way up to at least 1 mile per day.... Walk 2 times per day, morning and evening ATFER meals.....
