Can someone with experience diagnosing/treating hypothyroid help me with this, p!

Can someone with experience diagnosing/treating hypothyroid help me with this, please?

I believe I am suffering from issues with my thyroid and would like some general advice. For the past six months or so I have greatly reduced my consumption of most processed foods. I do not us iodized table salt. Over the past two or so months I have greatly increased my soy consumption (Tofu, sour cream substitutes, dressings, soy cheeses, etc.). About two weeks ago I began suffering from chronic hives that appear primarily (although not exclusively) in the late night/early morning hours. For the past week and a half I have noticed a small lump inside at the base of my throat - not visible or anything but I can feel it, particularly when I swallow. My web research has found links between iodine deficiencies, increased soy, hives, and the location of the thyroid being where my swollen lump is - all being related to hypothyroidism.

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1 week ago
Add to this the fact that I eat a very healthy, low calorie diet and do rather strenuous exercise several times a week and have not lost any weight. In fact, I think I've gained a few pounds over the past few months. Did I mention my mother and grandmother have thyroid conditions? My mother just went on synthroid a couple months ago...

1 week ago
I have had a blood test done and am waiting for the results. I do not have a regular doctor (or insurance) and prefer to take care of myself when possible, although I am not so stubborn that I won't see a doctor when it's really necessary (like when I had appendicitis for a week and it kept being diagnosed as constipation - thanks Kaiser!).

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1 week ago
Anyway, if there is a link between low levels of iodine and hypothyroidism, plus aggravation of the condition from increased soy, then it makes sense that I am now dealing with thyroid issues. is it possible to have thyroid "flare-ups" that can be easily treated to get it functioning correctly? I have reduced my soy intake by 90% and just picked up some kelp tablets with 400 mcg of iodine that I planned to take daily. Is there anything else I can try to jump start my thyroid? I know there are synthetic or animal hormones that can be taken. I'd prefer to explore all the options first. Personal stories of naturally treating hypothyroid would also be appreciated.

There are many causes of hypothyroidism. Increasing soy and using fluoride can slow down the production of thyroid hormone. Decreased iodine levels can also be a cause. Look up iodine patch test on the internet and try it. It will give a rough idea if you are iodine deficient.

You already tested, so make sure you find out the number result. A TSH over 2,0 indicates the gland is slowing down. A TSH should always be done first thing in the morning, so I'm hoping you had a morning test. Along with TSH, a free t4 and free 3 may be more helpful than just a TSH. Also recommended is a thyroid antibody test. Some people will develop high antibodies before having hypothyroid symptoms.

Treatment is thyroid hormone. Most are put on T4 with the idea that their bodies will convert the T4 into T3. For those that don't convert well a natural med like Armour containing both T4 and T3 may be helpful. I've been on both and find the natural med to help more.

Thyroid links below