Hypothyroid with bad cholesterol levels

Dear Ask The Doctor: About 5 years ago I was diagnosed with borderline hypothyroidism, but just recently discovered it after obtaining medical records.my T3.or T4s were low. Within 2 years of that diagnosis I gained 100 pounds,had a suicide attempt due to severe depression (I had never had depression before)and my skin is so dry that it just flakes off. I also now have great difficulty breathing.my Doctor refuses to believe that any of this is related to my thyroid. He shuffles me in and out. I also just had blood test and my cholesterol is 293, triglycerides 356 and my LDL cholesterol is 185. Do you think I should just make my own appointment with an endocrine specialist.

Dear Suellen: When it comes to your health, it is never a bad idea to get a second opinion from someone you trust.

You mentioned two issues. The first is thyroid disease. In order to make a diagnosis of hypothyroidism, a TSH level and not the T3 or T4 levels are used.

The second issue is your cholesterol levels. Both your total cholesterol and LDL (bad) cholesterol are significantly elevated. They warrant treatment through lifestyle changes, medications or both.

The indications to start medications depend a large part on your medical history and family medical history. Please speak to your doctor or your endocrinologist about this. Both doctors would be qualified to make valid opinion in this case.