Resolved question:
I just had a physical and my TSH levels were high. I just went through a break up, and I have had a radical diet change to a low carb/calorie meals. I have increased my physical activity drastically which has been very hard. My body has suffered from it. One incident happened after a pick up soccer game, where I was bed ridden that night from being soar and dehydrated. My colon or sphincter was feeling some discomfort and I was having a bowel movement ever few minutes for a 24 hr period. Following bouts with sleeplessness and and night sweats. All my bowl movements were solid and i was surprised almost all my visits had decent substance some of the movements were green in color. No diarrhea or blood. I have lost over 10 pounds in less than a month, and I have to say the diet change is the biggest factor. I experience a lot of fatigue and confusion, which is dangerous for me because im an Engineer working on machinery. Also I recently quit smoking, and am on the patch. My question is should I continue eating these low carb/low calorie meals 3 times a day and hope my body is just balancing out...or should i go back to the bad diet i had before. I was an athlete when i was younger, and im just trying to get back there. This high TSH level worries me because I can tell that my body is not reacting well. I am trying to make a radical change in my life, and am under stress because of it. I am 35 and have had borderline blood pressure. I am trying to make an appointment with a specialist but it is difficult because of where i live in Hawaii. I have full coverage.
Submitted:
4 Days
Category:
Endocrinologist
Hello.
Thank you for your query at DoctorSpring.com.
I understand your concern.
You seem to be under an unhealthy amount of stress. A radical change in diet and strenuous exercise is not the best way forwards given your present condition.
The increased frequency of stools you have had seems to be due to an infection (stomach bug). Generally these are self-limiting with maintenance of electrolytes and hydration required during its course. If your bowel movements have regularized by now, nothing else needs to be done.
How high is your TSH value?
If you are overweight, the thyroid imabalance (high TSH) may be responsible for the weight gain. The excessive fatigue, confusion and even the borderline hypertension may be a result of Hypothyroidism (high TSH and low Thyroid hormones). Depending on your level of TSH, Thyroid hormone supplements should be started.
Meanwhile stick to a healthy, nutritious and a balanced diet. Cut off all the unhealthy high sugar/fat foods and replace with wholesome options. Make sure you are taking the required amount of calories recommended for you.
As regards to exercise, start off with a basic and easy regimen and gradually increase the intensity.
A healthy diet with the required calories and exercise will result in a healthy weight loss as opposed to a low-calorie diet with strenuous exercise which can be harmful.
Please mention your TSH value or upload your report in the follow-up.
Regards.