Why have I no T3 level in my blood results? I just have a T4 level which is 15.5. How do I know if my T4 is being converted to T3?

[Galapagos]

Are there any key symptoms to look out for in T3 deficiency?

[Redditch]

your basal temperature will tell you... if you feel fine and your temperature is normal then you're converting fine

If your temperature first thing in the morning for 10 days is low (lower than 97) then you're probably either... not converting... or not taking enough T4..

[Hidden in reply to Redditch]

Please could you convert that for the benefit of those of us with digital thermometers as I'm also interested in basal temperature.How about the pulse rates as well ....are they a useful indication ,that we should monitor?

[shaws Administrator]

Do you mean the lab wouldn't do a T3 blood test?

The basal temp test is quite a good one and usually if you are hypo it will be lower but not always. Read the first question on the following link.

web.archive.org/web/2010122...

[Clarebear]

The symptoms of low T3 are those of hypothyroidism. You can have plenty of T4 but if you have low T3 you are likely to be hypothyroid. Unfortunately most labs/docs don't seem to realise the significance of this. xx

[marbez10]

I don't think the test for Free T3 on the NHS. I saw a private consultant (through work) who wanted blood tests after 3 months but work wouldn't cover the cost of that part, so I had the same tests entered on a NHS blood form by my GP.... but the hospital wouldn't test for Free T3, so I'm having to go on how I feel instead.

They tested Free T4 though which seemed to give my consultant enough info. to work on. As I'm feeling much better at the moment (on a combination of T3 and T4 meds), I'm not concerned for now.

[Heloise]

Many people posting here have said they have been refused a free T3 test. It's probably the most important one to tell you how well you are converting if you are taking T4 which they also seem to refuse to prescribe anything but. If you feel and are doing well, it's all right but when you are still having symptoms you should insist and if you are really sick and they still refuse you can use Blue Horizon and have it done at your own expense.

My own tell tale symptom was very heavy heartbeat at night during sleep. Not really palpitations but thumping. Also, could not tolerate very hot weather at all.