T3 - Do you need it?

[teyris]

How would you know if you needed T3? I dont think I have ever had mine checked

[Moggie]

If you are not feeling well on T4 (you have still got symptoms) and you know that all your vitamins i.e. B12, vitD, iron, ferritin and folates are all at optimum levels then you may possible need T3. It really does depend on how you feel.

Moggie x

[shaws Administrator]

T3 is the active thyroid gland hormone which we need in order for our body to function. T4 should convert to enough T3 but sometimes it doesn't and you can remain ill.

thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/about_...

[Jackie]

Hi The only way to safely be sure is to have tSH, T4 and Free T3 checked. If T4 near the top of range and FT3 not, then you often need some T3 and sometimes a iittle less T4. The only real way of telling this is if you do not feel OK ,is to have to pay for a these tests, otherwise it can be dangerous. Also to have repeat tests of all 3 after 6 weeks on altered meds.Sometimes the symptoms of Hypo and Hyper can be the same. Years ago, on armour, no T3 then, I was considerably overdosed on how I felt and it made me very ill.It is infuriating the a lot of NHS Lab managers have decided we do not need FT3 tested, to save money. Here even if a doc requests FT3, it is never done, no matter why.My Endo and I know it is important to have the 3 tests as often as needed.

I hope that helps.

Jackie