Persistent Low-Grade Fever, Fatigue & Hair Loss: What Could It Be?

Question
Hello,
For the past at least 4 months I have had a constant low grade fever. It usually ranges between 99.5 and 100.8.  I am also very tired all the time no matter how much sleep I get. I also seem to be losing more hair than I normally do. I did have my 2nd child a little over 10 months ago and have just contributed it all to that. I also can't seem to lose my baby weight. I lost about 15 lbs and then it just came to a stop and can't seem to lose any more of it. I guess I am just wondering if these symptoms combined are something to be worried about or if I am just over thinking it. Then main things that bother me are the tiredness and the constant low grade fever. Any further insight you could give me would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks so much,
Shannon

Answer
Dear Shannon,

Thank you for writing in.

Based on your symptoms, I would suggest making an appointment with your practitioner and getting a complete physical including blood work. Your symptoms point to a number of things. The most common cause for what you are experiencing would be hypothyroidism.
The thyroid gland controls how quickly the body uses energy, makes proteins, and controls how sensitive the body is to other hormones. It participates in these processes by producing thyroid hormones.  These hormones regulate the rate of metabolism and affect the growth and rate of function of many other systems in the body. Hair loss, weight gain and fatigue are the cardinal signs of hypothyroidism.

A simple blood test will give you a diagnosis of whether or not your thyroid is functioning to capacity. Medication will be prescribed to supplement your thyroid and your symptoms will subside.

One word of caution. The TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) is the test of choice to measure how well the thyroid is working. The acceptable range is approximately 0.5 to 5.0 mIU/L. However, it has been my experience that anything over 3.0 mIU/L can cause symptoms of hypothyroidism. Primary care practitioners do not usually feel comfortable prescribing medication for this level. Only an endocrinologist will be able to adequately treat your hypothyroidism with medication and frequent blood tests.

Other symptoms associated with hypothyroidism are constipation, dry hair, dry skin, shortness of breath and mental fatigue.

Please keep me informed of your test results. And, do not hesitate to write in again with any questions or concerns you may have.

Yours in health,

Pamela Cipriano, APRN