Hair Loss and Brittle Nails on Synthroid: Should I See a Specialist?

If you’re primary care is in internal medicine, you don’t necessarily need to see an endocrinologist as well. I’ve been hypothyroid for a little over 15 years. I’ve been all over the place with strengths of Synthroid. Luckily, I guess, my only side effects of hypo are joint pains and severe dry skin.

I have had hypothyroidism for 22 years. I e tried several doctors and have settled on a PA in endocrinology. She has not helped me with all the ends and outs of this disease BUT she is the best one so far. Most regular docs don’t understand the ends and outs like a specialist does and yet the specialist still doesn’t quite know enough….. because after many medicines I’m still very tired, my weight won’t budge, I can become anxious or worried easily, my nails remain brittle, my hair is unhealthy, my feet split and crack easily, and my brain fog just keeps getting worse. My TSH is between 1.5-2 - which is great - otherwise the med addresses so few of my symptoms. My PA is compassionate and that is worth a lot. I have tried one functional doctor and it wasn’t a good fit. I want to find another or I fear I will be stuck in this cycle forever. I am so weary of the symptoms.

I would look for a functional medicine provider. I see a nurse practitioner. They will test more than just TSH.

I have heard from others with hypo that seeing a specialist is very hit or miss. I myself got an endocrinologist who told me to keep taking my Levo and things should get better. Anything that doesn't get better isn't related to hypo. Refused to run any tests or labs. I left the appointment very upset. If you do seek a specialist, just know that you may need to try several before finding one that's helpful.