Please could I ask for advice and experience with Hypothyroidism/Hashimoto's Syndrome?

[MementoMemory]

I'm in the process of getting diagnosed and am not yet on medication. Currently, I've been told my TSH is normal but my T4 is low. I've got a check for antibodies on Monday which I'm guessing is a test for Hashimoto's Syndrome. I was wondering if I could ask for people's experience and advice. I would like to get back to normal by Christmas 2020.

Lost appetite is the one hypothyroid symptom I'm not experiencing. Is that normal if your TSH is normal?

Does hypothyroidism cause water-retention and bloating? I still seem to be the same size in places but my abdomen and breasts look and feel very puffed up. A bit like how it feels if you blow out your cheeks.

I'm basically existing on leaves and fasting most of the day to curb the weight gain but my gut still feels full. Is that a thing with this?

Once I start medication, how long does it normally take to feel better?

Would the Doctor allow me to slip into the hyper category, just for a bit, until I've caught up with all the stuff I've let slip in the last 8 months?

Any replies appreciated. I may have more questions, as things come up. Apologies if I don't respond immediately. I've probably fallen asleep. Again.

No, the doctor won't let you go hyper to make up for weight loss etc. It wouldn't work like that either tbh.

Hello,
Hashimoto diagnosis here - we have our own place (autoimmune desease) in the health section.
I'm on L-Thyroxine + Vit D + K and at times iron and selene.
My most noticable symptoms were heart and mood related.
But there is a large variety of niggles and others may be able to help more.
See you over there.

Thank you @BarrenFieldofFucks and @Prokupatuscrakedatus. I'll leave this thread here for traffic (I didn't even realise there was a section elsewhere) but will head over to Health.