How to get thyroid tests

[harryk]

My GP tells me my thyroid level is normal but I have all the symptoms of an underactive thyroid. What can I do please?

[greygoose]

Ask for print-outs of all your blood tests results and post them here. Someone will be able to help you. Doctors don't know what normal is for you, they just go by the TSH which is not a good test to dose by.

Hugs, Grey

[harryk in reply to greygoose]

Thank you. I will ask for print outs tomorrow.

[Jackie]

Hi Yes, also make sure you have the tests and ranges and they should at least be tSH, T4 and Free T3. If no use there, there is on line. If you think it is the thyroid you need to have treatment.

Best wishes,

Jackie

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[harryk in reply to Jackie]

Thank you. I,m not really sure what is classed as normal. You say TSH T4 and Free T3. Do you know if not normal would the readings be higher or lower.

Best wishes.

[Jackie in reply to harryk]

Hi If Hperthyroidism, more unusual then readings are all high normally. If Hypo then low readings, but not always the tSH, quite often still in range, hence the problem. Most thyroid disease autoimmune, not all, so important if autoimmune to have all the surrounding issues tested. Graves, is different to this, autoimmune, but results may vary, This is more unusual. Years ago treatment ,on how one was and observation, then bloods, treatment loosely on results, Now some docs especially GP`s just treat on high TSH, not good enough, cost! If GP will not test the 3 crucial levels, then even if FT3 is below range, you would not know and so not get treatment.This can happen, it did with me. If GP difficult, get back to us and you can do it all yourself and show the results to a doc for treatment. The starting point is the 3 essential tests.Every blood test you ever have always ask for ranges ,which vary a lot at different Labs. Keep for future reference, I have some 20 years ago, can be very useful.

I hope that is clear, or get back to me.

Jackie

[Heloise]

harry, I don't know if you will be in the office or on the phone or receive your printout by post but if you are in the office and see a TSH level of over 2.00, you can begin your debate. They prefer your number to be anywhere from 1.00 to 4 point (something), but we know you may have symptoms of all sorts with any level over 2. After you begin treatment, even that will be high enough to produce symptoms. Some GP's have made people wait, becoming more ill, until their TSH is over ten before treating. They may prefer to put you on antidepressants. This may be an effort to save money for the NHS so please stand up for your health. Your metabolism controls every chemical process in your body and really is a crucial part of your health.

[harryk in reply to Heloise]

I am already on anti-depressants. I am asking the Surgery for a print-out today. Thanks for your help.