[40F] With multiple chronic symptoms and surgical history

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible conditions that could explain your symptoms:

• Hypothyroidism: This condition, which you've been diagnosed with, can cause a number of the symptoms you've described, including difficulty losing weight, thinning hair, and dry skin. Hypothyroidism is a condition in which your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough of certain crucial hormones.

  • Treatment typically involves daily use of the synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine, which you're currently taking.

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Although you've had a hysterectomy and oophorectomy, if these symptoms were present before those procedures, PCOS could be a possibility. PCOS is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age and can cause difficulty losing weight, acne, and thinning hair.

  • Treatment of PCOS typically involves lifestyle changes and medication to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

• Dry eye syndrome: This condition occurs when your tears aren't able to provide adequate lubrication for your eyes, which can result in the dryness and blockage of tear ducts you've described.

  • Treatment can involve lifestyle changes, over-the-counter eyedrops or ointments, or prescription eye drops or ointments, or tear-stimulating drugs.

• Insulin resistance or prediabetes: Your elevated fasting glucose levels could be a sign of these conditions, which can make it harder to lose weight.

  • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, and sometimes medication.

Please note that these are possibilities based on the information you've provided, and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms and medical history in person.

What you can do

Here are some general suggestions that might help with your symptoms:

1. Continue taking your prescribed medication and follow up with your doctor regularly to manage your hypothyroidism.
2. Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise routine. Even if weight loss is slow, these habits are beneficial for overall health.
3. For dry eyes, consider using over-the-counter artificial tear solutions. If you're already doing this and it's not helping, consult with your doctor or a specialist.
4. Keep your skin clean and use non-irritating skin products. It might be helpful to consult with a dermatologist for your acne.
5. Monitor your blood glucose levels and follow up with your doctor. They might recommend lifestyle changes or medication to manage your glucose levels.

What you should look out for

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

• Severe abdominal pain
• Severe headache
• Any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or unexplained weight loss
• Symptoms of a thyroid crisis, such as a rapid heartbeat, high fever, or delirium.

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