Suggest treatment for hashimoto s thyroiditis and COPD
Patient: 67yo woman recently diagnosed with Hashimotos and COPD. Quit smoking 15 yrs ago have been very active biking, hiking, walking. About 9 months ago I sarted noticing a slight shortness of breath. Now I have severe trouble breathing when I Stand up and try to walk. Two months ago I was walking around a little slower but still had quality of life. due to feeling tired I went to a dr who did a blood test and discovered the Thyroid problem. I was put on 50mcg of Levothyroxin. I had two stents put in ten years ago.EKG 2mos ago showed a normal heart for my age. 81% on the Bruce Protocol. Over the last two months my breathing has worsened to the point that I can t take more than 2 steps without severe loss of breath. As soon as I lie down I can breathe again. Have very little appetite and have lost 25 lbs since May. Doctor: Thanks for your question on Health Care Magic. I can understand your situation and problem. You are having weight loss and breathlessness on minimal exertion. All these indicate worsening of underlying COPD in you. So better to consult pulmonologist and get done 1. Clinical examination of respiratory system 2. PFT (Pulmonary Function Test). PFT will tell you about severity of the disease and treatment of COPD is based on severity only. You should start inhaled bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroid (ICS). Enroll yourself in Pulmonary Rehabilitation center where chest physiotherapy and deep breathing exercises are done. All these are important in COPD patients. They will improve lung functions and reduce symptoms. So consult pulmonologist and discuss all these. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.