Acne + Weight Gain + Irregular Period = Hormonal Imbalance (Thyriod Problem)

Having clear skin and a fit body is really important to people especially to girls. I started being conscious of my appearance starting University and more so as I started working. I am currently in the banking industry and being in that industry we are expected to look pleasant and present ourselves with grace and confidence to our client to better serve their needs.

I never had spots or pimples when I was in high school. I was lucky enough to have clear skin all throughout high school and about halfway through University. Even during my menstrual periods, which don't occur every month, I rarely ever get any breakouts. I have basically an irregular period, the longest number of months of me not having my period was 6 months and that really bothered me but I was so scared to have myself checked. I have also observed that I had high metabolism. I could eat a whole family size pizza all by myself and not gain weight ever, so basically I ate whatever I want and whenever I want.

It all began to change when I started working. I was still skinny but I have observed that my neck was getting bigger and I had trouble swallowing food. I had my suspicions that i might have a thyroid problem because I know it is hereditary and both my grandparents have it so there is a big possibility that I might get it. One day i fainted in the office during morning assembly and I was rushed to the hospital. Finally I was checked and referred to a doctor specializing in internal medicine. I had my lab done and I was thoroughly checked and I was diagnosed with toxic hyperthyroid. My thyroid gland is producing too much hormones than what my body needs that is why I had such high metabolism.

My doctor was very nice and explained to me all the food that I need to avoid which were a lot and most of it were my favorites and she had me on medication for hyperthyroid. I was diligent in taking my medication but I was not able to give up on my favorite food which were forbidden. After 2 weeks I went back to see my doctor because I had this rashes on my body and it turns out I was allergic to the medication. I was given two options, either I undergo surgery to remove my thyroid gland or I take radioactive iodine to kill my thyroid gland. I chose the latter because I am afraid of the surgery it will leave a scar on my neck and there was a chance that I could loose my voice. The radioactive iodine side-effects were bearable compared to risk of having surgery.

After I underwent radioactive treatment I was not allowed to go near anyone, I was isolated for about 3 weeks and even after then I was not allowed to go near people especially pregnant women and babies. Nurses and doctors wore special suite when entering my room and I had no visitors. I did not feel any pain, I was just now allowed to go near people. It was my mini vacation in isolation, I did nothing but eat, sleep and watch TV.

Now years after my treatment, I am healthy and religiously taking my hormone supplements and going to my scheduled check-ups. From my experience I have observed that every time my hormones are not within the normal range I tend to get massive acne breakouts, weight gain, and delayed period. My doctor advised me that aside from taking my hormone supplements, I need to have healthier diet and I must exercise regularly. It is really important to consult with your doctor to check if hormonal supplement dosage needs to be adjusted. So for those of you maybe showing the same symptoms as me, have yourself checked with your doctor to get proper medical treatment.