Clinical presentation is very important, but there are very specific
tests that can be done to screen for hypo or hyperthyroidism. The most
frequent thyroid condition I have seen postpartum is Hashimoto's
thyroiditis which usually starts with a hyperthyroid phase which
eventually burns the thyroid gland out and the mom becomes hypothyroid.
The best way to screen is to simply do a sensitive TSH and if it
abnormal there are other more specific tests to be ordered.

                                                Len Presutti, DO
                                                Dept. of Fam Med.
                                                Ohio Univ.  COM
                                                Athens OH 45701

>----------
>From:  stu and jan black[SMTP:[log in to unmask]]
>Sent:  Saturday, February 06, 1999 8:48 PM
>Subject:       Thyroiditis
>
>Excuse me if I missed some of the background info here.
>Did this Mom have Thyroid levels done?
>When my Son was about 6 months old I crashed into a very painful and life
>changing PPD. I went from Dr to Dr searching for a diagnosis for my
>palpitations, extreme panic attacks etc and one did come up with
>"Thyroiditis" with no testing (can you test for this or only based on
>symptoms?).
>And yes, PPD can be diagnosed as long as 2 yrsafter.
>
>One Psychiatrist insisted I was not depressed, and should begin Betablockers
>for my palps. I suffered for a long time and hope this Mom is getting the
>right diagnosis.
>Respectfully,
>Janet Black RN
>Breastfeeding Counsellor
>Mission BF Support Services
>
>