Question
I currently take medication (Seroquel, lamictin and Zoloft) as I am bi-polar. For the past 6 months, I have been almost constantly exhausted and picking up every germ that has been going around. My GP did a thyroid test, which showed very high levels of thyroid antibodies (which is apparently not a problem?) but that myT4 count was right at the bottom of the "normal" level, and was advised that I may need the Eltroxin to function optimally. I have been taking Eltroxim (0.1mg) and my blood test this week shows absolutely no change, and I am still feeling very, very tired despite having just had two weeks leave. My GP has suggested that I now stop taking the Eltroxin my thyroid is not responding to it and because my T4 falls just within the "normal" range, and suggested that possibly the fatigue is related to a reaction between the Lamictin and the Eltroxin. My GP suggested that if this does not help with the fatigue, light headiness, weight gain, 3 week menstrual cycle, etc. that I might need to see a specialist in this field. I do take a Food State multivitamin for women, and an omega 3 supplement. Can you please make a suggestion as to where to from here as I seem to be trying all sorts of pills, which all seem to have side-effects, and not feeling better on any of them. Many thanks

Reena Sukdev

Answer It is important to remind ourselves that health is a complete state of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well being and the link between all needs to be considered when trying to heal. Neglect any one area and the process becomes a struggle. This is a case best dealt with a multidisciplinary approach as there are many factors going on here and the practitioners will have to agree to work together for the greater good. The focus should be on trying to see what is best for you and more factors need to be determined here. Treatment should be more than just taming the condition. I strongly recommend attending a bipolar support group. It helps speaking to other people with a similar condition. The fact that your GP has tried a few approaches already indicates that you are being listened to by your practitioner. This is a good sign. He/she is not giving out a standard procedure but is trying to see what is best for you and is open to other suggestions. I would advise that you keep in close contact with your practitioner. Continue with the Omega 3 fatty acids and multivitamin. I would suggest that apart from the treatment you develop a good structure of living well. It's a new year. Write down some goals. See yourself as a manager of this amazing body. Look at your diet. Get plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables , nuts and legumes into your plan. Get plenty of liquids in. Exercise. Do yoga and mediation. Explore your spiritual path. Some suggested books would be by the authors Gary Zukav and Eckhart Tolle. There are many dimensions to health. Get this foundation in place. If this is strong the process becomes easier. Feel free to contact me at Wellness Cavendish as any further suggestions need to be carefully followed up. Regards Reena

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