Hello All,
I have a question for the group. I currently am having RA type pains, but have tested negative for RA on bloodwork as well as MRI. There is no inflammation, so my rheumatologist isn't comfortable treating me for RA, despite the fact that I'm having strong pains in my fingers, hands, toes, wrists, knees, ankles, and so on.
In the bloodwork, the rheumatologist found that I have Anti-Nuclear Antibody (1:40 Speckled) as well as Anti-Thyroid Antibodies ( > 1000). So she checked my TSH and it was 6.1. My T3 and T4 were about 1.4 each, normal.
So I was sent to an endocrinologist, and she said it is basically my call as to whether I want to try out synthroid. I have no other symptoms of hypothyroidism, no constipation, no fatigue, no weight gain, etc.
My rheumatologist wants me to try synthroid to see if it explains the joint problems. I am hesitant, but am at the point where I pretty much see no other option--she isn't going to treat me for RA until I try out thyroid treatment.
So my question for the group is, is it possible to go on Synthroid, say 12.5mcg or 25mcg, and then get off of it if it doesn't help me or if it creates new hyperthyroid symptoms? By biting the bullet and trying out synthroid, I am basically guaranteeing that I will be in a balancing act for the rest of my life? I understand that I have subclinical Hashimoto's and that I will eventually need to take Synthroid for life, but my preference, if possible, would be to postpone that until it is necessary.
Ideas and comments are much appreciated,
--Rato