“What is causing this bloating?”
For the last couple of weeks, I am suffering from severe bloating in my stomach area. My ankles are also swollen as is my jawline. I have been taking 100 mg thyroxine for about 6 months, I should be taking 250 mg but because I was not taking it regularly, I am trying to ease my way back up to the required dose. I find my nails splitting and breaking and also suffer hair loss if I jump straight into the high dose. I am very poor at taking my medication regularly but have made a real effort recently. My thyroid problem has been ongoing for 30 years, so I am aware of the ups and downs and don't think this is the cause of bloating. I have also been prescribed Ellesse HRT treatment which I have now been taking for 6 weeks. What can I take or do to eliminate this uncomfortable feeling?
Female | 53 years old
Complaint duration: 30
Medications: thyroxine / ellesse
Conditions: underactive thyroid / menopause
4 Answers
DoctorDoctor
There are a thousand different things that could be causing your bloating. You need to go to your PCP and have this worked up. Labs, US or CT scan depending on what your PCP finds on exam.
You need to be seen by the provider who prescribed your medication, let them adjust the dosage of this needed medication.
Many of your symptoms seem to be very consistent with hypothyroidism. Slow GI motility may be a result as well, and this could be what is causing your bloating. I would make sure that you are on the appropriate dose of your medication and see how your symptoms respond. Talk to both your endocrinologist and your gynecologist about your symptoms.
Switch to an organic, low or no gluten Mediterranean diet. Make sure your Hgb is 13 or above. Must be taking zinc 100 mg daily, selenium 200-300 mcg daily and evening primrose oil. Emu, Fenugreek and Biotin may help with hair loss.
