I believe the authors mistook a bat for a bellfree. I think they misdiagnosed Pooh completely - but then they're psychiatrists! Pooh is a classic example of hypothyroidism. First of all, he's pudgy and always craving carbos. I've read that raw honey is very good for constipation. Then, we can talk about brain fog, mental confusion, slurring or juxaposed speech patterns, hesitancy at speaking, that spaced out look, obvious dyslexic problems along with the ADD, slow and plodding gait, tummy aches, insulin resistance with upper body weight gain, always bumbling around and bumping into things, lots of naps, puffy face and eyes - and I'm prety sure Pooh's hibernation period lasts longer than the average bear. His throat looks awfully puffy and sometimes he has terrible itching from dry skin and needs to rub against a tree. Of course, congenital hypothyroidism would cause mental retardation and simplistic communicative skills, along with with mental and physical retardation if this disease were undiagnosed and unmedicated. Acquired hypothyroidism has symptoms that come on more gradually as the body runs out of thyroid hormones. I wonder if his coat sheds easily and if he's got lots of aches and pains? His nervous gestures indicate some adrenal insufficiency, another cause of hypoglycemia and low body temperatures.. There are times that despite his optimism Pooh can get in a depressive slump, especially when his buddies (those neurotic friends of his) won't give him the appropiate affection quotant allowed those with hypothyroidism. Poor, poor Pooh!

Tigger, on the other hand is a perfect example of hyperthyroidism. The excessive energy is translated into rapid speech, jerky movements, high-flying stunts, acting before thinking of the consequences of the action. A true hyperthyroid state can lead to euphoric episodes as seen in mania. Rapid heart rate, little need for sleep, panic attacks, nervous gestures, mental confusion, even megalomania. His throat has an enlarged profile and his eyes are always bugging out. I imagine he sweats alot and has diarrhea. Many disorders like panic attacks, nervousness, compulsive disorders, nightmares, visible shaking, hot flashes and such are seen even in subclinical hyperthyroidism. Someone give Tigger a beta blocker!

Best in health,

Leslie