Endo should I see one

[Sharon56]

I was diagnosed with hypo thyroid in my early forties I have never seen a specialist. Just get my blood tested once a year. Do you think I should ask to be referred?

[Hidden]

Hi Sharon, I can only speak from my own experience but I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism at age 22 and I'm 45 now. I've never been referred to an endo even when my blood tests went a bit haywire. I think it's quite normal to just receive blood tests and medications from your GP. Have you tried asking on the Thyroid UK forum? x

[Hobbits]

Hello Sharon56, If something has changed talk to your GP see what he/she says. As paulywoo states, this is a Reumatoid Disease/Arthritis forum, you may want to post your question in the Thyroid Forum they could probably assist more. Good luck.

[allanah]

Hiya Sharin , seems a while since we talked!! I'm hoping that means you have felt well!! I would chat with the doc and he will tell you if you need referring . I know the thyroid site is meant to be helpful on HU too!

I hope you have a great Xmas and come on here to tell us how things are going for you, mind I've been off with bad flares etc so maybe you have!!!! Love A x

[Hidden]

Hi Sharion. I'm in same boat - just rely on GP to check my thyroid levels for me and medicate accordingly. It used to be yearly but I've been checked more often lately because they keep wondering if my present symptoms could be as a result of changing thyroid levels but it's actually stayed exactly the same for a year or two now i.e within normal range. I think endos are mainly for diabetics and people with thyroid cancer and Graves disease (overactive) and people with Pernicious Anaemia. Twitchy

[earthwitch]

It always surprises me how many folk are being treated for thyroid problems in the UK and have never seen an endocrinologist. That was definitely not the case in another country I used to live. I guess its a cost saving measure, and its probably fine if the GP is absolutely sure you have a problem that needs treating, and the treatment they give works, but I'd say if you aren't stable on your medication, then definitely push to get an endocrinology referral for review and revising your treatment plan. The other thing you can ask about is more sensitive thyroid testing. The basic tests they do don't always tell exactly what is going on, and consequently the standard treatment doesn't always work well. Thyroid UK has a great website with lots of good advice.