Thyroids removed due to cancer. Taking levothyroxine. Feeling tired, pain in the temple and lower back. Why?
Patient: Hi, I have a number of health questions, if I may. First, I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer about 10 yrs ago and had surgery to have both thyroids removed. Have been taking Levothyroxine daily since. But I havent had my blood levels checked lately because of no insurance, and have been feeling really sluggish and tired for past few months. Am still taking medicine (levothyroxine). Second, I have piercing, sharp stabbing pains in my left temple area and on top and behind my left ear off and on for past several years. Pain only lasts a few seconds and comes and goes. Dont have migranes or any other unusual headaches besides normal headaches from time to time. Lastly, I have been having pain in my lower back on right side kidney area. I notice it when I take a deep breath.Thank you Doctor: Thank you for your query.  There are some possibilities of your problem. Long standing tiredness after thyroidectomy may be due to hypothyroidism. The levothyroxine dose you are taking probably is not sufficient. Simply t4 & tsh test will guide you about the dose.  Next the pain you feeling at various part of the body particularly the low back pain should be concerned. It may be simple mechanical pain. But the disease recurrence & bony metastasis should also considered. Nuclear scanning of the whole body have to be done. Please contact with your concerned doctor.  Take care.