Sunday, December 12, 2010

Thyroid Pills and Other Doctorish Stuff

I went to the doctor Friday for my annual "well woman exam."  I try to go every year on time, mainly because I've had issues in that department in the past, including abnormal Paps and fibroids.  I just like to make sure everything is running smoothly so to speak.

A couple years ago, my doctor did a test and discovered I had an under active thyroid gland, which can cause such things as weight gain, insomnia, depression, tiredness, etc...  Which I have, but then, don't we all to some extent? 

Anyway, when I lost my job, I lost my insurance.  And my thyroid pill is only $4 a month, but the problem is, my prescription ran out in August, and I didn't want to pay to go to the doctor to get the prescription.  So, now that I have insurance again, I went, but I'd been without that pill for about three months.

Well, the doctor wasn't pleased with me for this.  She explained to me that an under active thyroid can cause weight gain, insomnia, depression, tiredness, etc... And she asked if I'd been experiencing any of these things.  Ummm...yeah.  But, the reason I hadn't been to see you is that I lost my insurance, because I lost my job.  And unemployment can cause depression, insomnia, blah blah blah, yes?

So, whatever.  I'm back on my $4 a month pill, and we'll see if I feel any better.  I kind of just didn't think it was doing much, so I didn't think much about being off of it.  I have felt bad, but I've had reasons to feel bad.

One reason to feel good though:  The doctor congratulated me on having lost three pounds since I'd seen her last.  And my appointment was in the middle of the day.  They weighed me with all my clothes on, including shoes, and I even forgot my keys were in my pocket.  So, yay for that!

6 comments:

Brian's Home Blog said...

Hooray for the weight loss, but it's sad when the Doctor thinks you should come visit them when they know most of us can't afford it!

Regina said...

I like any number on the scale that equals good news!

And yes - I am totally with you. Job (or lack of) stress can cause all those symptoms!

Glad you are back on track with all the doctorish stuff now.

Cat and DOG Chat With Caren said...

Great about the weight loss but DO NOT mess with your thyroid.

I was on thyroid meds a little over a year ago. I actually alternated between an OVERACTIVE and UNDERACTIVE thyroid (yes, this CAN happen) and I developed Graves disease as a result (which is now in remission but was tied to the thyroid)

I lost my job (due to downsizing) back in 2007....(at the time I had no insurance, I DO have insurance now but still no job)

If you are honest with your doctor and have a caring and compassionate doctor they will work with you.

My doctor only charges me $50 for his office visit (because my insurance does not cover his visits) which is a HUGE help....$4 for a prescription is actually GREAT!

Please do NOT neglect your thyroid because it can have dire effects if you do.

Hilary said...

Caren is right.. many times doctors work with you if they know you dont have insurance. If they are a good doctor, they care about their patients....and understand these thing happen and they have to give back...

Hilary said...

Caren is right.. many times doctors work with you if they know you dont have insurance. If they are a good doctor, they care about their patients....and understand these thing happen and they have to give back...

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