NWR: Autoimmune Conditions

I saw that there is an IBS thread here (which I'm a proud member of) so I figured I'd start an Autoimmune thread as well!





I was diagnosed with Hashimoto's Disease(autoimmune hypothyroidism) which means my thyroid gland is SUPER slow and for me, just doesnt work at all. I was 16 at the time and the only reason I was tested for is was because my thyroid gland was HUGE! As time went on I started to feel the affects - tired, cold all the time, some weight gain, did i mention TIRED!?! I've been on Synthroid (a synthetic version of the hormone that your thyroid gland is supposed to produce) but it has never helped. My TSH/T3/T4 levels have ALWAYS been funky. It's upsetting because low hormone levels can affect SOOO many things, including fertility. I want bebes some day!

I also have IBS. I think there's some debate as to whether IBS is an autoimmune condition, but as far as I know - it is.

The worst part is that once you develop one AutoImm. condition, you are basically guaranteed to develop others. I'm always so scared that I'm gonna be sick for the rest of my life. I don't remember what it feels like to feel WELL most of the time. Anyone else feel the same way?

I'm so sorry to hear how icky you feel!

although I can not directly relate.. My sister also has Hashimotos (sp?), which she was diagnosed with when she was around 7 (she is currently 18).. since that time she has also been diagnosed with Celiac's Disease (around the age of 14), IBS (last summer) and now Lupus (just within the last month)

Keep your chin up.. I know its difficult, but know that you are not alone.

FM me at any time.. As a family we do a lot of walks, donations, etc. for her conditions.. and although there are no cures, she always feels a sense of relief when we go to a function and she sees how packed they are with people who are just like her. I'll be happy to share any info I have with you!

Feel Better!!!