At my age 37-ish annual physical when my physician asked if I had any questions, I responded, “You know, doc, could I have a low-thyroid condition? My brain is foggy, I have a little problem remembering things and if I look at a cupcake, I gain five pounds.
 
He looked at me in what seemed a fatherly fashion and said, “Why don’t you let me be the doctor besides, it’s not your job to diagnose.” Okay, well, he wasn’t the one running 3 miles at lunchtime to maintain a decent weight while everyone else feasted on greasy hamburgers topped off with frothy shakes. Not to mention consuming vast quantities of caffeine, sugar and diet soda in an effort to drum up a little more brain action in order to keep my job.

Five years, forty pounds later, and desperate for answers, I was referred to a physician whose first words were, “At the medical school I attended, we were taught to listen to our atients. She validated my concerns then started with Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) but added Free T-3 and Free T-4 which encompasses not only release of thyroid hormone but also subsequent uptake. For example, if there is an iodine deficiency, TSH may be released but not utilized. My new physician understood the relevance of a broader scope. Ding-Ding-Ding!

The results came back again “low normal” and symptoms again were ‘so not normal.’ Starting on a low dose, she adjusted medication until cognitive function and energy were on track. There was a spring in my step again and the low grade depression of the past 12-years was gonzo…it was time to get back to conquering my known universe!

NOTE TO SELF: Neva, neva, neva give up.

“Common Knowledge isn’t all that common.”
– Anonymous

Some days, we sail through life happy as a clam and other days, not so much. Some days, we feel like we might lose control and other days, we lose it…completely. I hate losing control.

One day while studying the female ‘monthly’ cycle in premed biology, the stars aligned and OMG…the chemistry of my biology made total sense! And yes, there can actually be a cause and effect. Below, is the ever so infamous Blinged-Out Hormone Chart with associated emotions.

To oversimplify: As estrogen ramps up to release a monthly egg, it gives a girl a flirty-flavor. It then gives way as progesterone takes the lead and a normal woman can feel like superwoman on steroids. At the end of the cycle (when we were told we couldn’t get pregnant) there is a tricky little estrogen spike – triggering romance and possible pregnancy…IF an egg is released. Surprise!

From flying high, we hit the depths of despair, lose our cool, hate ourselves, and maybe have a little cry. Did you know that crying helps the body to release excess hormones? Good to know! Finally, an oxytocin low puts us back in cuddle mode helping the body to replenish this feel good hormone.

The point is when overcome by circumstances, especially when they have a name (like Hubby or Jr.), it never hurts to check the cycle, breathe and think before taking a proverbial swing. This can prevent cataclysmic mate-bashing, berating an innocent child or saying something at work that they will never forget and you will always, always regret.

NOTE TO SELF: Tune into your ‘stuff’ and own it.