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@pixiesusan

Well, my quality of life has other aspects, too. I have spinal stenosis, which gives me sciatica at least once a week, and my back hurts to some degree every day. I do acupuncture for it, which helps so much, BUT my insurance company won't pay for it even with my primary saying it's the only thing that helps me, so I can't get it as often as I like. My Dr at Dana wants to hook me up with a back surgeon at the Brigham, but I'm just not sure I'm up for back surgery (not to mention I'm terrified by it). And money and logistics are always an issue. I'm 1.5 hours away from Dana Farber.

My doctor at Dana felt my exhaustion was too much, given that my bloodwork is good (other than platelets, which have been low since 2014; previously, they have caused some tiredness, but it's worse this year). So, per her request, my primary checked my thyroid, which was low. They started me on the lowest dose of thyroid Rx, and tomorrow, I get my first follow-up bloodwork to see if it's in the normal range now; if not, they will up the dose. So that may make a difference in my exhaustion.

Yesterday, I had a good day. I walked the dog 1.5 miles. Just for the record, I'm also a senior citizen. 😉

Usually, the first line of defense for low platelets is steroids. I've done that, and I'd rather not do it again. Getting transfused with platelets is uber expensive, and I'm not sure my insurance will pay for it, especially since I don't have any bleeding issues. Or do you mean treatment for CCUS (is there any)?

I'm sure you have a life outside this forum, and I greatly appreciate you answering so often and so quickly, but don't feel you have to answer immediately.

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Replies to "Well, my quality of life has other aspects, too. I have spinal stenosis, which gives me..."

Hi @pixiesusan
I too have Hypothyroidism and it can certainly cause extreme exhaustion when untreated. Do you know your TSH levels?

Have you explored Epidural Steroid Injections for your spinal stenosis? I would ask your insurance carrier if they are covered. I would strongly advise against back surgery. This is not always the best option and most likely not even an option at all with your platelet level.