Unfortunately, the longer you go with your TSH elevating and without thyroid hormone replacement treatment, the more likely it is that you will gain excess weight. As soon as symptoms appear and/or you have an elevation in TSH above a certain level, you will need to start thyroid hormone replacement drugs. If you have any of these symptoms, make a doctor's appointment immediately so that your thyroid levels can be checked. In fact, constipation is one of the most common symptoms, even for people who are treated. Hypothyroidism also slows down digestion and elimination. Dehydration can interfere with proper metabolism.

Because you feel or look bloated or swollen, you may not drink enough water, but that is counterproductive. You also may not know that the body will hold on to water fiercely, unless you are getting enough water. Many physicians don't tell you that thyroid disease causes water retention and bloating - especially hypothyroidism, which can cause puffiness and bloating in the face, eye area, arms, hands, legs, and feet. If you have to, order your own thyroid blood work as described in this article, and push for proper treatment for your now-hypothyroid condition.

Monitor your symptoms. Familiarize yourself with hypothyroidism symptoms and treatments (my book Living Well with Hypothyroidism can help), and take control of your own health. Once you've had RAI, forget about being hyperthyroid and start considering yourself hypothyroid. Honestly, I have no idea what motivates some of the doctors who are treating thyroid patients, but if you are hyperthyroid and going to; Be aware of hypothyroidism symptoms.