[41F] Experiencing hair loss, fatigue, and hot flashes

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms and medical history, here are some possible explanations:

• Hashimoto's Thyroiditis: This is an autoimmune condition where your immune system attacks your thyroid, a small gland at the base of your neck. Hashimoto's can cause hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid), which can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, hair loss, and joint pain. Your current dose of levothyroxine might not be sufficient to manage your symptoms.

  • Treatment typically involves hormone replacement therapy to restore your body's normal thyroid hormone levels. You're already taking levothyroxine, which is the most common treatment.

• Iron Overload (Hemochromatosis): This condition causes your body to absorb too much iron from the food you eat. The excess iron is stored in your organs, especially your liver, heart, and pancreas, which can lead to life-threatening conditions such as liver disease, heart problems, and diabetes. The symptoms can include fatigue, joint pain, and skin changes. Elevated liver enzymes and ferritin levels could be indicative of this condition.

  • Treatment typically involves regularly removing blood from your body (phlebotomy) to reduce the amount of iron.

• Menopause: The transition to menopause can start in your 40s and is characterized by hormonal changes that can cause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and hair thinning. However, this doesn't explain your elevated liver enzymes and ferritin levels.

  • Treatment can include hormone therapy, medications to help with hot flashes, and lifestyle changes.

Please note that these are just possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. You should consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

What you can do

1. Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and concerns. They might want to adjust your levothyroxine dosage or investigate other potential causes for your symptoms.
2. Keep a symptom diary. Note down when your symptoms occur, how long they last, and any potential triggers. This can help your healthcare provider in diagnosing your condition.
3. Maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise routine. This can help manage symptoms of fatigue and joint pain.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Yellowing of your skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Unexplained weight loss
• Severe fatigue that prevents you from doing your daily activities
• Any other symptoms that concern you or worsen over time

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 accurate information.