[39F] Experiencing a range of symptoms including fatigue, pain, and gastrointestinal issues

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, several conditions could be contributing to your symptoms:

• Hypothyroidism: Given your history of Hashimoto's thyroiditis and symptoms of fatigue, weight gain, constipation, hair loss, dry skin, and depression, it's possible that your thyroid hormone levels may be lower than they should be. Hypothyroidism can also cause muscle weakness and joint pain.

  • Treatment typically involves taking a synthetic thyroid hormone, such as the levothyroxine you're currently taking. It's important to have your thyroid hormone levels checked regularly to make sure you're taking the right dose.

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): This condition, which you've been diagnosed with, can cause irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and hair loss. It can also contribute to anxiety and depression.

  • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, and may include medication to manage symptoms.

• Peripheral Neuropathy: This condition, which affects the nerves in your feet and legs, could be causing the pain, tingling, and cramps you're experiencing. It can be associated with a number of conditions, including hypothyroidism.

  • Treatment typically involves managing the underlying condition and may include medication to relieve symptoms.

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This could be causing your long-term constipation and bloating. IBS can also be associated with anxiety and depression.

  • Treatment typically involves dietary changes, stress management, and sometimes medication.

• Depression and Anxiety Disorders: These conditions could be contributing to your feelings of sadness and hopelessness, fatigue, and physical symptoms. They are common in people with chronic health conditions like hypothyroidism and PCOS.

  • Treatment typically involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy.

Please remember that while these conditions could explain your symptoms, it's also possible that there are other causes.

What you can do

1. Make sure to take your levothyroxine as prescribed and have your thyroid hormone levels checked regularly.
2. Continue to follow a healthy diet and try to incorporate regular physical activity into your routine, as this can help manage symptoms of PCOS and hypothyroidism.
3. Consider speaking to a mental health professional about your feelings of sadness and hopelessness, as well as your anxiety. They can provide you with strategies to manage these feelings and can determine if medication might be helpful.
4. For your constipation and bloating, try increasing your fiber intake and drinking plenty of water. Regular physical activity can also help. If these measures don't provide relief, consider speaking to a healthcare provider.
5. For your foot and leg pain, try to rest and elevate your feet when possible. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help, but be sure to use them as directed and speak to a healthcare provider if you find you're needing to use them regularly.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Blood in your stool
• Severe or worsening depression or anxiety
• Thoughts of harming yourself
• Severe pain or weakness in your legs or feet
• Any other symptom that is severe or concerning to you

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your personal circumstances. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care.