My Hypothyroidism

For the lay folks out there,  here is an overview of hypothyroidism

Interesting,  of all the common symptoms,  the only one I have ever clearly had was dry skin.

But I've had that for many years.

During a recent fertility work up, my sperm count was found to be quite low.   Normal volume, pH slightly alkaline, morphology 20% normal, normal motility.  

As a result, we visited an IVF doctor to check into IVF options.  Routine screening labs were order.  I asked her to put on a TSH as I had never had one checked.

Low and behold.  TSH was 25.  I was not actually all that surprised.  I have an identical twin brother who was diagnosed 2 years ago with hypothyroidism.  I am not familiar with the role genetics play in hypothyroidism,  but I find it interesting that both of us have it.  

If there are any thyroid genetic researchers out there, I'm sure my brother and I would be willing to donate a little DNA in  the name of science.

Symptom wise,  I really didn't have much, except for the dry skin.   However, I did find it odd that after 60 minutes on a tread mill, I was not able to get my heart rate past 85% of maximum.

The IVF doc had her nurse tell me the results, and to get myself a doc to manage it.  

Once again, the value of primary care rearing its head.

The dose she wanted me to start on was simply inadequate.

I called her back, left a message on the voice mail that I needed a larger dose, and here is my recommendation.

With that,  I went to pick up the medicine later in the day at a Walgreen's pharmacy.

The dosing had not been adjusted,  so I told the pharmacy to abort the script.

I asked them how much the medicine was.  

$12.99 for a 50 mcg tablet daily, for a one month supply.

Well,  I see a lot of folks as a hospitalist without insurance  that need to be discharged with cheap meds.  So I know that generic thyroid pills run $4 at Walmart.

I drove myself to Walmart.  Went up to the window and ordered myself some levothyroxine

 125mcg qday.  #30, 11 refills.

10 minutes later,  $4 cash and I was on my way.

Interestingly, since the inception of the $4 Walmart program,  there are now 4 other local pharmacy/department/grocery store chains that have gone the same way, to keep market share.

The fact that I, a physician went to Walmart instead of Walgreen's is proof positive that competition drives down prices, to the benefit of everyone.

The husband of a hospital worker takes thyroid medication as well.  But apparently, he believes that the much more expensive brand name is better than the cheap generic.  

My how our public has been brainwashed.