Hair loss, wrist weakness. Taking sertraline and thyroxine. Normal?
Patient: I was told by my hairdresser I had lost quarter to half of my hair since may. I had blood tests done which have came back iron deficient & prescribed iron tablets. I have also been experiencing wrist weakness in both wrists & wondered if this is normal. I also take sertraline for post-natal depression & thyroxine 100mcg, TS3 results not in yet but slightly low on TS4. I had my thyroid removed at age 16yrs. Sadly I cannot pay for this, I ll just go back to my GP on NHS Thank you for your time Doctor: Welcome to HCM!I have  read the question carefully and from my clinical experince I can say that almost all problems - hair fall, wrist weakness, iron deficiency, and depression , are related to thyroid deficiency in your case.It is well established fact that hypo thyroidism, I.e.,  high TSH, and low T 3 & T4 levels, are related to hair fall, weight gain, increase lipid, lethargy, low mood, weakness, calcium loss, and low iron. the wrist problem or any bony problem. can occur in you as parathyroid gland are also removed when thyroid is removed. Get calcium & phosphorus levels done, along with TSH regularly.I think you need to increase the thyroxine supplement and use more of iodised foods , like- salt. Avoid vegetables like- cabbage, ect, as they increase the problem further.you have been taking iron supplement, along with that you may get help by eating jaggery, more of green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, nuts, to increase formation of iron and blood. Iton is absorbed more when taken with citrus fruits or water, in empty stomach, never with milk.You may start calcium suppleamt for wrist weakness. Continue with antidepressant, as this will help you.For your hair, you may start a good multivitamin, vitamin A, and most important is thyroid supplement.So, meet your doctor and get adequate thyroid medicines for your self, this is the most important drug for all your problems.Hope the reply is useful for youget well soon!Dr. Manisha Gopal