Breast Cancer and Hypothyroidism

MsPharoah

I'm starting the thread to see if there are any ladies out there who have been diagnosed with Hypothyroidism and if so what links may exist between it and BC.  I just recently had an abnormal TSH but a normal T4 test and will be redoing the test in 2 months along with the T3 test.   I have never had the test before, so not sure what my TSH has been in the past.  I have done some googling but am searching for some people with real life experiences....like when did you get your hypothyroidism diagnosis...before or after BC...what is the treatment like and what side effects do you experience....and is there any data suggesting that risk for recurrence is higher/lower with this comorbidity? 

dlb823

MsPharoah, you're going to find that hypothyroidism is an extremely common pre-existing condition amongst women dx'd with bc.  In fact, there have been some pretty lengthy threads here about it.  

I was personally dx'd with hypothyroidisim when I was in my mid-20's, and back then was RX'd a high dose of Synthroid, which still did not prevent me from eventually requiring thyroid surgery around age 35.  I then got into nutrition and went many years without needing thyroid meds -- or at least my thyroid tests were "normal."  But after my bc dx, when I was searching for answers, as you are, I learned from my ND that the "normal" ranges for T3, T4 and TSH are very minimal and not geared to optimum health, so I've been on a natural thyroid hormone for the past 6 years.

Another link many of us have learned about is a low iodine level, which influences thyroid function.  So many of us -- especially those of us who are most open to complementary medicine -- now supplement with Iodoral or a similar iodine supplement.  You can find a lot of information on the importance of iodine on a website called Breast Cancer Choices.       (((Hugs)))   Deanna

Fiaranch1

Hi ,

I also have hypothyroidism and have has it since the age of 16 (I am now 56) . I got my first BC at age 28 and the 2nd BC and lymphoma diagnosis at the age of 55.  Thyroid treatment is a simple pill 1 per day and I cannot function without it ( I have no energy, am freezing and horrible dry skin if I forget to take it) .  It takes a few months for your doctor to get the appropriate dosage but I have had zero side effects from the medication .

Both my Mo and BS have  told me they see a high percentage of women with thyroid disease having BC but as of this date there are no statistics, studies etc. to confirm correlation.  Make sure your doctor does a T3 T4 and a TSH test all at the same time.  Those 3 tests done together are really the only way you can get an accurate reading and ensure your prescription is right .  Also thyroid is tricky I would suggest seeing an endocrinologist versus a regular PCP for thyroid issues.    Had I seen a specialist sooner I could have avoided many years of "trial and error" thyroid prescriptions.    Good luck .............

KSteve

MsPharoah - I am going to my PCP tomorrow for my annual physical tomorrow. Did bloodwork last week and went online to see the results.  The only note of any irregular numbers was for TSH (it was 5.12 and was 3.1 two years ago).  The comment on that result was "Thyroid level slightly low. Will discuss at physical on 3/13."  So I guess I'll find out more tomorrow.  I'll let you know what she says.

Kathy

slv58

hi MsP, I have recently been diagnosed with hypo. It was only because I was persistent and pushed my go to test because ever since my first week of radiation, I have felt a lump in my throat. My TSH came back in the high 40's. Still waiting for US results, but have been on synthroid since jan. Very low dose, but my last test came back at 4.8, however to be honest, I'm not feeling any better. I don't feel confident with my GP, as she says 4.8 is normal and won't increase my dose. Everything I have read says that most people feel their best around 1.5, which could be why I'm not feeling any better. I'm sorry that I really can't offer much advice, other than I read to ask for the name brand synthroid and not the generic. Take meds the same time every day and on an empty stomach. I hope more will chime in as I'm also interested in this topic.

peacestrength

I was dx with Graves Disease back in 2001 - RAI failed, so my thyroid was removed - leaving me with permanent hypothyroidism.  I've been on a T3 and a T4 medication since then - I'm considering switching to Armour once I get out further from all the bc treatment.

I get very frustrated how my doctors seem to think there is a correlation between my lack of thyroid and bc but they don't understand the how and why.  I also feel angry that mammos missed my bc due to breast density - which may have been a strong symptom of my high estrogen - which may have been caused by my dependance on thyroid meds.  I got tired of complaining to my GYN and went to an alternative doc who prescribed bioidentical progest to help with my high estrogen but guess what? I still got bc - they believe it was missed on mammos since 2010 - If this is true, I had bc when I was taking progest - maybe it fanned the bc flame.  I will never know and I was just trying to avoid bc.

Thanks for letting me vent.  I'm thankful for this thread.

Kathy, let us know how you are.

MsPharoah

Thanks ladies, hopefully we can track our progress here and share information.  I will be retesting  in two months and definitely will want to see an endocrinologist before I start taking medicaton.

Peacestrength...I sincerely hope they figure out how these two diseases interact/cause and effect, etc.  to save others.  What is interesting to me is that now that I have BC, I find out that there is some strong belief that low Vit D3 and hypothyroidism are connected with Breast cancer.  I get my blood work every year...never had my D3 checked until I was diagnosed.  And my PCP told me that since hypothyroidism is most common in women over 60, they don't test for that until we are of that age.  So guess what?  Breast Cancer is more common in women over 60, too.  Coincidence?   All I can say is that I am insisting that my 35 year old daughter have regular D3 and thyroid tests...I'll pay for them if I have to. 

Deanna, what were the indicators that you needed surgery?  Was your thyroid enlarged?  I will definitely look at the iodine connection. I have read about that.  

Fiaranch, it is scary that you can notice the symptoms when you miss a dose.    I have been through chemo and radiation, so I know what real fatigue feels like and I am not having that symptom.  I actually feel pretty good.  I do not feel freezing cold and tolerate great changes in temperature without an issue.  My skin is dry...but it has always been on the dry side.  I guess it is possible to have a spectrum where you don't have all the symptoms?

Kathy, sounds like we will be on the same merry-go-round and can share info.

SLV, I am so sorry that you are not getting the relief you seek.  Sounds like it might take time to adjust the medication and you are right, if the ranges are off, it could make treatment less than ideal.

 Anyway, good health to you all.

MsP

mmtagirl

so thankful for this thread.  I had a thyroidectomy in July 2013 because of nodules with hurtle cells. Doc said 30% chance of cancer but only way to tell for sure was to remove them. They were b9.  Dx at Christmas with BC.  I keep being told no studies have found a coorelation between thyroid issues and BC. 

Slv58, my doc said tsh around 1.5 if over age 50.  I am 51.  That is where I test and feel fine, of course, since BC I am always tired and I want a recheck before further treatment.  Waiting on oncotype and blood work to confirm chemo.

Thanks all!

Anonymous

On most TSH test result forms, there will be a statement such as: "Since 2003 the American Society of Endocrinologists recommend a TSH level between 0.5 and 2.5.

Though many forms STILL measure up to 6.0 TSH as "normal" - EVEN WITH THE ABOVE WORDS WRITTEN ON THE FORMS - so it's very important to get your actual results, in writing, to determine.

Any doctor who says something in the 4.0, or 5.0 range is "within normal" is not UP TO DATE ON CURRENT standards for measuring thyroid function.  You will find information on line about this - it's been since 2003.

dlb823

MsP, yes, my thyroid was enlarged.  The funny thing is, I was playing a lot of tennis at the time, and I'd noticed the bulge, but thought for months it was an enlarged muscle.  But it was a thyroid nodule.  

I haven't particularly followed her story, but a bc survivor friend recently pointed out that Amy Robach, the NBC journalist who is fighting bc, appears to have a rather prominently enlarged thyroid.  I just thought it was an interesting observation, and it certainly does appear that way in her photos.     Deanna

KSteve

MsP - So my PCP wanted to retest to verify levels before starting medicine.  Took more blood this morning.  No nodules on my thyroid so that's good.  Should hear back by Monday.  Would definitely help explain my weight gain, tiredness and dry skin.  I'm not sure if there's any tie to breast cancer or not.  I'll let you know what happens.

Kathy

MsPharoah

Hi Kathy,   My retest is scheduled for first of May.  I was able to convince my PCP to order a TSH, T4 and a T3.  I'll let you know how it turns out.  As far as my weight, it fluctuates with my diet and exercise...ie:  when I am too heavy it's because I am eating a lot and not getting enough exercise.  LOL.

Are you seeing an endocronologist or will you be taking medication under direction of your PCP?   And if you don't mind me asking, would  you share your TSH/T4/T3 levels when you get them?  

MsP

KSteve

Yes, I will be glad to share my results.  My initial results from last week are TSH - 5.12 and T4 - 1.21.  I don't see T3 on here at all.  I'm not planning on seeing an endocronologist at this point.  My PCP will manage my care unless it gets more complicated and then I might ask to see a specialist.  She did tell me that if I end up on medicine, I will have another blood test 6 week after beginning the medicine to make sure I'm on the right dosage.  Once I am, it will only be a yearly blood test.  More to come!  Glad you started this thread.  It was very timely for me and I know nothing about this subject.  Thanks!

Kathy

KSteve

p.s.  I know what you mean about the weight part!  I told her that I've never been heavier in my life  (need to lose 30 lbs) and I have gained about 15 pounds in the last year and a half, but I know that's also due to my eating (not overeating, just not always good choices and definitely not enough fresh fruits and veggies).  So I started weight watchers two weeks ago and I'm down 5.4 pounds in two weeks!  Also, started back at the gym with my hubby.  So I'm trying to make better life choices, but wouldn't it be nice if a little pill would also help give me more energy and help with the weight loss

Kathy

MsPharoah

Hi Kathy,   congratulations on your weight loss success!!!  I hope you are feeling better and better every day.    I am participating in a fitness program and it is really helping me keep off the weight.  I have been about 10 lbs too heavy for the past several years and I want to get down to that weight that I feel most comfortable and stay there.    I can''t believe it.  Our TSH and T4 scores are almost identical.  If you are going to have another test, you may want to ask your PCP about getting the T3 at the same time.   My research indicates that better diagnosis can come from having all 3 results.  I've also read that the reference ranges vary and there are some doctors who use outdated reference ranges so it is so confusing....just like breast cancer treatment!! 

Good health!

MsP

Wilsie2

I was diagnosed with Graves' disease back in 1954 when I was 10. Lived in New Orleans, so my parents had me treated at Tulane, teaching hospital. I was treated with radioactive iodine, very new treatment at that time. They kept me in isolation for 10 days, because I was radioactive. Anyway the treatment got rid of the goiter, and my thyroid function, too. I took mega doses of thyroid, along with thyroid hormone, for many years. They did not think my thyroid would regenerate, but it mostly did, and it am on a minimal dose now. I have always thought that there was a connection to my BC.   Interesting thread. 

Wilsie

KSteve

MsP - Got my blood work back and it's normal, so no magic pill for me. LOL.  My TSH level was 2.76.  They didn't do the T3 or T4. We will recheck next year when I'm back for my annual physical.  Did you get your new bloodwork back yet?

Kathy

MsPharoah

Hi Kathy, I don't have my retest until the first week of May.  I sure hope that my results are as good as yours.  Hooray!!! and all the best to you!!

MsP

KSteve

Thanks, MsP - I will watch for your update in May. Good luck to you too!

Kathy

peacestrength

Thankful for this thread.  I will have my T3, T4 and TSH monthly check in April.

peacestrength

I'm curious if you are taking thyroid meds?  If so, what are you taking? I've been on Synthroid and Cytomel for years.

MsPharoah

Peacestrength, good luck and keep us posted on your results.  

MsP

peacestrength

My TSH was .47, T3 3.18, and T4 1.5.  I feel the best when they are "high normal."  Like I mention above, I take the T4 and T3 thyroid replacement medication.  

I've been debating to switch to Amour.  

janincanada

I a six years out and have just been told that I have hypothyroidism. I had chemo, radiation, herceptin, double mastectomy and thought I was doing fine. Life was getting better, easier, etc. I returned to work and had energy. Since then I have been diagnosed with gallstones that they won't take out, my appendix ruptured, I have severe Osteoporosis and the energy of a sloth. Just started thyroid medication yesterday as I have had Cellulitis that was on my face and almost caused me to lose vision in one of my eyes. My immune system seems to be a mess. I need info and reassurance that something will get better. I am off work again and miserable as the antibiotics have caused some severe side effects that are keeping me home. I never felt this down before throughout any of my treatment. 

peacestrength

Jan - hopefully the thyroid meds will give you more energy soon.

MsPharoah

I had my retest and my results were in the normal range, but borderline.  I met with my pcp and we went over the test and the symptoms. We both agreed that since I don't have the symptoms of hypothyroidism that we will retest every 6mos.  My pcp believes that treatment is appropriate when symptoms present, even when the tsh is normal.  I'm comfortable with that decision and the careful watch for the future.  Unfortunately, my white blood cell count is still low...8months after chemo and rads.  Yuck!

Jan, I am so sorry that you are having so many problems. Maybe when the antibiotic cycle is over, you will turn the corner?  The thyroid medication is very powerful and effective.  I hope you see improvement in your energy levels soon.  Until then, rest well. 

MsP

peacestrength

I was dx with Graves disease back in 2000 -long story short, I finally had my thyroid surgically removed.  I have been taking synthroid and cytomel for almost 14 years.  I thought that since my thyroid was gone, so was the Graves disease and had my thyriod TSH, T4 and T3 checked regularly but not my TPO and TSI - big mistake on my doctors part.  Well, I use both conventional and naturopathic physicans.  My naturopathics said that I may still have the autoimmune antibodies floating around in my blood and can cause inflammation any where in my body.  So, I went to my endocrine doc and she ordered both TPO and TSI...and the results indicated that after all this time these levels were elevated.  So, my naturopths are using homepathic remedies to hopefully bring my thyroid anitbodies down to normal levels.  I was informed by my endocrine doc "there's nothing we do to treat the antibodies"....mmmm, ok.

I'm working on reducing inflammation with this bc dx, not adding to it.  I'm so thankful my naturopathics helped me push for testing.  Why my endocrine doc didn't test me earlier is beyond me - makes me mad.  So, I wonder if these tests would be benefical to others who are hypothyroid?  Maybe.

Blessings2011

Wow - I posted all this over on the Femara thread, not knowing there was one just for thyroid - duh!

I have been hypothyroid for at least 10- 15 years. My old PCP put me on .25mcg of Synthroid, and from then on, my annual thyroid tests were all "within normal limits".

Then in 2011, I was dx'd with BC. I was 14 years post-menopausal and 15 years post-hysterectomy.

The funny part was that I never had hot flashes, I only had cold flashes. It was like my thermostat was broken.

After my BMX, and before I started Arimidex, I lost 60 pounds. Once I started Arimidex, I gained back 20 pounds. No matter what I did, the weight kept increasing. And my stomach was just plain FAT. I completely blamed first Arimidex, then Femara. But I have just learned that it's been my thyroid all along. (And I have quit the AIs completely after only 1-1/2 years.)

Even though my routine thyroid results have always been "within normal limits" since I started taking Synthroid all those years ago, my new PCP actually listened to me when I told her I couldn't lose weight  even while maintaining a 1200 calorie a day diet and exercising 5-6  days a week. I told her I was sleeping 12 hours a day, and was freezing cold all the time. Even though it was 90 degrees outside, I wore a sweatshirt. I had my electric blanket on "high" because I'd get the chills. She felt this warranted further investigation. (SO glad I fired the old PCP!!!)

She ran a test on "Free T4" as well as TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone).

The Free T4 came in at the bottom end of normal (1). The TSH came in at the very top end of normal (5). TSH was 1 a year ago and now it's already 5. Basically, my brain is begging for more thyroid hormone!

Add that to the fact that I have been on the same 25mcg dose of Synthroid for more than ten years (which is the same dosage they start children on) she has now doubled my dosage, and says I should begin to feel better in 6 - 8 weeks.

Sometimes ya just gotta play Dick Tracy and put all the pieces of the puzzle together.