can premenapause be mistaken for a thyroid disease?

Question

Im 38, female. In the last 2 years I have gained unexplained weight, have mood swings, irregular periods that were normal, like clock work before. I feel fatiged and tired most the time. I have tendonitis, feel sleepy and forgetfull, even if i get a good nights sleep. And also have loose stools most the time. my gynacoligist said he thought I was going through premenapause, I have a thyroid test done about 5 years ago but the doctor said it was normal, but a friend said if they dont do the right one, sometimes it wont show up. I also have alot of aches and pains like arthritis. im thinking of going back to the doctor for a physical and asking for a thyroid test. I have hardly any energy and even have tried taking vitamins for this. I also cant seem to loose weight on diets. I feel like i get hot flashes right before my period, and have many mood swings. I also feel weak most the time. I have never had anything wrong with me besides a cold or sinus headache.

Answer 1

The thyroid affects so many areas of your body that it is often mistaken for a lot of other things before the actual cause is discovered. In this sense, thyroid disease can be very hard to diagnose.

However, the tests to determine whether your thyroid is functioning normally are very simple. So, in that case, thyroid disease wouldn't be mistaken as being other diseased very easily.

A lot can change in 5 years, so I would ask your doctor to test your thyroid again or ask to be referred to an endocrinologist who can perform a thorough check as well.

If it turns out your thyroid test is in tip-top shape, you can most certainly blame age. Metabolism naturally slows down with age, so it's very easy to gain weight even if your routine hasn't changed. And in that case, you may want to check out some hormone therapies.

Best of luck.

Answer 2

You sound as though you are anemic. Are you having heavy blood flow? This could be a sign of hemmouraging, and may require lazer-cone surgery. Have a pap-smear and ask the doctor to check for pre-cancerous tissue.