Hi I have been taking thyroxine for over 30 years. Back then there wasn't the information existing now. Just lived with it.

[Harper]

Recently been referred to Endo. Says i'm ok taking 100 mcgs thyroxine. My last test showed TSH 2.18. Which was taken thro the GPs. They said it was too soon to take it again at the hospital so the Endo obviously just endorsed that result! Am I wasting my time? It's rather like hitting a brick wall. Can anyone advise please. Hopefully. Harper

[shaws Administrator]

Welcome,

Unfortunately, the British Thyroid Association and the Royal College of Physicians keep informing us that levothyroxine is the only prescription we can have on the NHS and that Natural Dessicated Thyroid Hormones are unsafe. Both are false statements and it goes to show that none of the above have every had a problem with hypothyroidism, more's the pity.

No, you are not wasting your time. When you get your thyroid gland blood tests, always get a copy complete with the ranges as labs differ and it makes it easier to comment.

I am not medically qualified but your TSH is on the high side for someone taking thyroid medication. We should be aiming for a TSH of 1 or below or slightly suppressed if still unwell, or the addition of some T3 to a reduced T4.

There are other alternatives which are Natural Dessicated Thyroid Hormones made from pigs or cows thyroid glands which many find make them feel well. They don't work for everyone - it's trial and error. You may have to go private to get a prescription.

If your GP hasn't already done a Vitamin B12, Vit D, iron, ferritin and folate, ask for these as the first two in particular are usually deficient and can cause problems in themselves.

The most important question, as far as I am concerned, from doctors/endos is 'how are your feeling' and if unwell should do their best to get you well. Many seem more intent on the TSH number rather than the patient.

If you ask your surgery for a print-out of your latest blood test results, post them in a new question, complete with the ranges and someone will comment.

[nostoneunturned]

Apart from following shaw's advice, get Dr Anthony Toft's "Understanding Thyroid disorders", £5 from chemist/Amazon/Thyroid UK, BMA publication, Dr T past president of BTA. Page 88 on "Judging the correct dose of thyroxine", his figures are based on the reference ranges he quotes on Page 87.

Also, have you visited the main site?

thyroiduk.org

[Harper]

Thank you for your response to my question. It is frustrating because there seems to be a lack of knowledge/interest in the symptoms of thyroid disorder, except the TSH test. I will look into your suggestions. Thanks again. Harper