DAWN HARPER ASK THE DOCTOR

Doctor Dawn Harper answers all your questions

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WHY ISN'T MY MEDICATION WORKING?

Q Over the last year, I have been utterly exhausted. My GP, arranged a lot of blood tests and found out I have an underactive thyroid. It was a relief to have an explanation for my symptoms. I started taking thyroxine, but I have been on it for over a week now and, disappointingly, I don't feel any better.

A Having an underactive thyroid can make you feel very tired. It can also make your skin feel dry, cause constipation and make you more sensitive to the cold. Thyroids change very slowly. Your GP will want to repeat your blood tests in a few weeks, and will adjust your dose of thyroid replacement accordingly.

My legs are so swollen!