So, I went to the Doctor and there's a problem...

lizzyp9112 · June 2014

Thanks again for all the advice and comfort, ya'll!! I feel so much better after sharing and realizing that this is a problem that can be pretty easily fixed, all things considered.

I should get the referral for the colonoscopy next week. At this point it may just be IBS but there is also a chance it's ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease. The colonoscopy will tell us more so at least then we'll have a better idea how to treat my stomach issues and whether I need a change in my diet.

I am going to see if they can just refer me to an RE instead of a normal endocrinologist. An RE is able to diagnose and treat the problems I have anyway, plus they will be more in tune with the impact this has on TTC. Seems like a win/win.

I should know more early next week, so I'll update once we have any answers (or at least make a note in my siggy once there is any DX). For now I wait... and am trying to keep my diet pretty plain so my stomach doesn't hate me.

WestCoastGirl05 · June 2014

I have no advice or experience to give - only (((HUGS))) - Just try to stay optimistic, at least now you can move forward and make a plan. I'm sure those are hollow words coming from someone who doesn't thoroughly understand what you're going through. Just be good to you! I'll be back here rooting for you!!

nittanyllama · June 2014

I hope they can fix the thyroid issue easily, but I'm still sorry to hear that. I also wanted to say I too can commiserate on the stomach issues. I had a colonoscopy a few years ago for stomach problems... they ended up not finding anything and called it IBS. Stomach issues can be awful though, so big hugs to you. PM me if you want to talk about it more!

And everyone who said the prep sucks and the procedure is a breeze was right. Also, after the procedure be prepared to be feeling really loopy and gassy. It's a funny combination.

lizzyp9112 · June 2014

Haha @NittanyMama, a couple other friends warned me to plan on being in the bathroom a long time.

My only 'fear' with the colonoscopy is that sometimes they use anesthesia and I have never been anesthetized before. I'm sure it will be fine but I guess it worries me that I'll have an adverse reaction or something. The doctor did say that because of some of my symptoms that are more serious the colonoscopy will be a way to rule out anything more than IBS, so I know that bare minimum I have IBS.

Keep the gifs coming! This has helped a lot with feeling more at peace about all the junk going on! I've been lurking lately but not commenting as much... it's hard to dive into threads when there's so much going on in 'real life,' ya know?

wells2010 · June 2014

You may have some kind of autoimmune thyroiditis (when your immune system attacks your thyroid). It is one of the most common health problems, especially among women. It can definitely lead to fertility problems, so it's good that you are getting it addressed.

I have hashimoto's thyroiditis, which causes hypothyroidism. Symptoms are weight gain or trouble losing weight, puffy face, dry skin, brittle hair/nails, weight gain, irritability, depression, and irregular periods. Treatment is taking a drug like Synthroid, which is one pill a day 30 min before you eat. Your doc will monitor your labs to make sure that you are taking the right dose of medication.

eevieemariee · June 2014

I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism when I was 17. They put me on levothyroxine (generic of synthroid). The majority of the women in my family have hypo and my grandmother and great aunt like to refer to it as "the most easy chronic illness". haha! You do just take your meds, get your blood tested, and make any adjustments to dosage when necessary. The meds are literally a life saver. It helps take away the drowsy feeling and constantly needing to sleep. I often feel sluggish if I miss a single dose. The majority of the time it is that simple.

Best of luck with the testing and finding the right doctor/specialist to treat you!

holliberry28 · June 2014

I'm sorry that you're going through this, but at least now you can treat it aggressively and hopefully help with TTC. As for the colonoscopy, did they do an endoscopy first? I had stomach issues in the Fall and my gastro did endoscopy followed by a colonoscopy. I'd def recommend taking two days off, one day to drink the liquid they give you and then one for the actual procedure. And, you don't feel a thing! So don't worry about that,and you're not sore afterwards either lol. Just make sure you have baby wipes when you're drinking the laxative (it's like salty gatorade). Good luck to you!