Retesting

[HarryE]

How long should you leave between testing for TSH/FT3/FT4? I had one done a month ago & am wondering whether to do it again, to see what's happened. Is it too soon?

Not on any treatment, but feeling worse

[shaws Administrator]

Do you have a print-out of the last blood test. If not get one from the surgery (we are entitled) and post them with the ranges for members to comment on them.

When you get the next thyroid gland blood test, get the earliest possible appointment as that's when TSH is highest but the clinical symptoms are the most important way to diagnose but unfortunately I don't think the GP's know this.

thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/diagno...

thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/testin...

doctors don't pay attention to this either.

thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/testin...

thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/testin...

Also when you get your next blood text, ask for Vit B12, Vit D, iron, ferritin and folate too. The first two are usually deficient in hypo.

I think about 6 weeks would be time enough but your GP may disagree. You can get a private blood test.

[HarryE in reply to shaws]

Thanks. My previous results were not good, and I have had no treatment. I had those done privately & will have to do so again, but was really wondering whether any deterioration would show up yet?

[HarryE in reply to HarryE]

Any more thoughts anyone? I am interested to see if my bloods have got worse but is there any point retesting after a month. Would there be a measurable decline in that period?

[shaws Administrator in reply to HarryE]

Why don't your post your blood test results for comments from members. Include the ranges too.

[HarryE in reply to shaws]

I don't have them to hand, but have done before. I was really just asking if results are likely to change in a month.

[shaws Administrator in reply to HarryE]

It's difficult to say, especially TSH as it can vary throughout the day. This is a link and it has a few pointers which may help.

healthunlocked.com/thyroidu...

[cuteyoungchic in reply to HarryE]

Yes, they can change very much in a month.

My blood tests have to be every six weeks. x

[HarryE in reply to cuteyoungchic]

Thanks, I might give it another go. Just trying to build up some evidence to actually get some treatment! If I get a home test kit I could even take it in the middle of the night!

[Twitchen in reply to shaws]

Whenever I have a test and ask for the results they say I will have to come in and see the doctor as they are not allowed to give them out. I find this very frustrating because I like to keep track of them myself.

[HarryE in reply to Twitchen]

I would take this up with your doctor when you next go in. There is no reason you can't have your own results.

[shaws Administrator in reply to Twitchen]

Phone your surgery and ask the doctor to telephone you. Tell the receptionist you are going to ask him to put a note on your records that you wish to have them (some Receptionists like to rule the roost). We are entitled to have them for your own records.