Is this a significant fluctuation in TSH and FT... - Thyroid UK

Thyroid UK

140,948 members166,084 posts

Is this a significant fluctuation in TSH and FT4 levels over a 4-month period?

London_Lady profile image
5 Replies

Hi everyone,

I posted my last thyroid results when I had them done 4 months ago. My TSH was 1.89 then and my FT4 17.1. That was when I had just begun to feel ill and since then I've gradually felt worse but assumed it was not thyroid-related as my GP told me it wasn't possible and not worth investigating further.

Anyway, recently I've been feeling quite horrendous and having new symptoms cropping up so I went to a different GP at my local practice and he sent me for thyroid tests. My TSH is now 1.53 and my FT4 13.0. Is it just me or does the FT4 seem quite a significant fluctuation since my last results? I thought people who had no thyroid problems only saw a nominal fluctuation in their results. It is also worth pointing out my most recent results were done in the morning and the older ones the afternoon.

Sorry, I don't have the ranges as I got the results over the phone and the receptionist seemed busy so I didn't ask. Yet again my results were categorised as "normal". Would you say the fluctuation alone and my worsening symptoms since the first tests warrants more tests/an endo referral?

Written by
London_Lady profile image
London_Lady
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
Read more about...
5 Replies
London_Lady profile image
London_Lady

I forgot to add, one of the symptoms I've had other than the usual fatigue, dry skin/hair, mouth ulcers, visual problems etc. is unexplained weight loss in the last few months (I've dropped two dress sizes) and I'm at the typical onset age for Graves' but a low FT4 would suggest hypothyroidism not hyperthyroidism? Sorry if this is a silly question but I thought I'd ask as most of you seem to know what you're talking about having experienced thyroid disease and talk more sense than a lot of GPs.

crimple profile image
crimple

Have you had a test for antibodies, TPO?

London_Lady profile image
London_Lady

No, both times my GPs have just checked the basic thyroid profile (TSH & FT4). Do the NHS routinely test antibodies? I believe I read on this board that even if GPs agree to test those the labs often refuse so I guess I might have to wait to sort those out myself.

puncturedbicycle profile image
puncturedbicycle

Have you got the ranges for your results? The t4 does look like it took a dive but they won't recognise it unless/until it goes under the range. And as crimple says an antibody test might help (so you'd know if your thyroid is actively under attack in which case the assumption would be that you'd eventually need meds). A private test with antibodies, t3 and t4 might shed some light on what's going on but your gp might not pay attention to the results.

London_Lady profile image
London_Lady in reply topuncturedbicycle

I should have asked about the ranges but they seemed busy, I will next time I have an appointment. I assume the same lab was used both times.

Why would a GP not take private test results into account, is that commonplace? They won't do more comprehensive tests on the NHS but also won't review the results when you have no choice but to get them done privately?! I know the healthcare system in this country has a lot of red tape but that is just ludicrous.

My current GP at least seems to be taking my various symptoms seriously so hopefully he will continue to investigate. I'm sick of feeling sick all the time and if my thyroid is to blame I just want to start the necessary treatment ASAP.

Thank you both for your responses, I genuinely appreciate it. As I said, I'm new to interpreting thyroid tests but the FT4 diving from 17.1 to 13.0 in a few months along with my worsening symptoms is worrying and I feel there must be a correlation. I read on the ThyroidUK site when the thyroid is struggling FT4 levels drop.

Not what you're looking for?

You may also like...

Over range FT4 and normal TSH (no medication)

Hi I have Hashimotos and High TPO and TgAB antibodies. I have never been on any thyroid meds. I had...
Elsa1509 profile image

Drop in FT4/FT3 and TSH after levo increase

I'd be very grateful if anyone can help me understand why my results look worse after an increase...
Thalia56 profile image

TSH and FT4 levels on NDT?

I have been taking Thyroid-S for over a year, after finding that neither Armour nor Erfa worked...

And now this; High TSH AND High FT4

You know how you wait ages for a bus and then three come along at once? My potted history:...
vlc2 profile image

I'm trying to find a doc who is willing to treat my symptomatic hypothyroidism when TSH is high but within UK 'normal' range, with low FT4.

Hi, I'm new here and I'm trying to find a doctor or endocrinologist who is willing to treat my...
adriann profile image

Moderation team

See all
PurpleNails profile image
PurpleNailsAdministrator
SlowDragon profile image
SlowDragonAdministrator
RedApple profile image
RedAppleAdministrator

Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.

Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.