Week of raising profile of thyroid problem sufferers

I decided to contact you to make the public aware of this debilitating disease.

I have been diagnosed with hypothyroidism for some 10 years, since I was 25, and it affects every avenue of my life.

I struggle with maintaining sleep throughout the night, so am always tired, which means I can be extremely ratty and irritable.

My hair falls out and my nails are soft, I also have trouble concentrating and forget what I was saying in the middle of the sentence!

I'm so lucky to have an understanding husband!

My metabolism has shut down, so weight loss is virtually impossible.

I feel the cold to my bones but suffer from night sweats.

Also, my libido has taken a hit; as I said, a very understanding husband!

Many people are undiagnosed and may feel they are going mad.

As did I.

One moment you can be happy, the next crying, then angry.

Such a mixture of emotions within a short space of time!

I was one of the fortunate few who had a basic understanding of hypothyroidism, as my mother was diagnosed with the disease while pregnant with me.

My sister, Jo, was born with the disease, but it was not discovered until she was nine years old.

Such a tender age to be taking medication for a lifelong illness.

Symptoms include low body temperature, high cholesterol, high or low blood pressure, loss of libido, gynaecological problems, allergies, intolerance to cold or heat, heart problems or palpitations, dizzy spells, anaemia, water retention, loss of appetite, joint/muscle pain, weight gain, extreme tiredness, dry, sore or scaly skin, hair loss, broken sleep, lethargy, sensation of a lump in the throat.

However, sufferers may experience only some of symptoms, not necessarily all, so please do not dismiss the possibility.

If you feel that you require further information, check out this website: www.thyroid-disease.org.uk

They have helped me to understand my condition and, like me, they are human, too!

Belinda Harding,

East Ham Road,

Littlehampton

NOTE: All letters must include a name and address which can be withheld by request.

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