TSH now 4.5

Hi any advice welcome I have just phoned for my last tsh results and they have gone up to 4.5 I also have antibodies . The gp sent me a letter requesting I have the tests repeated in three months. I was wondering if I should go and see gp and request a trial of meds as I am feeling rubbish at the moment . do you think I have a case for the request. I am going to collect a copy of results tomorrow.

[shaws Administrator]

The fact that you have antibodies shows that your thyroid gland is under attack anyway. So, what is he waiting for. Email [e-mail] for a copy of Dr Toft's online Pulse Article and either question 5 or 6 states that if we have antibodies it should be 'nipped in the bud' by levothyroxine. Question 6 definitely (thankfully) informs GP whereabouts he should be trying to get your TSH down to

In the USA the TSH is treated around 3 and in the UK (despite being unwell with symptoms) don't medicate till 10. With antibodies they should treat.

[Clutter]

Ann, Scroll down to Guidelines and Treatment Options to read Dr. A. Toft's comments in Pulse Magazine thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/about_...

If you want a copy of the article to show your GP email [e-mail]

I think this may be article Shaws is referring to. Your thyroid is obviously failing evidenced by your TSH rising from 1.69 to 4.5. It looks like your GP is waiting for it to get worse and doesn't intend to treat you until it is over range. If the article doesn't persuade him to prescribe a trial of Levothyroxine you might ask for a second opinion from another GP at your practice.

[Hidden in reply to Clutter]

Thanks for your help just one more thing this might sound a bit daft but does concern me, I suffer from anxiety and depression and wonder if taking thyroid meds could make me more anxious.

[Clutter in reply to Hidden]

Ann, they're more likely to reduce anxiety and depression once you are optimally dosed. Low thyroid often causes anxiety and depression.

[Hidden in reply to Clutter]

Thank you for all your help without this site I would have taken what the gp said and just struggled on I cant understand why they make it so difficult to get diagnosed. How many people must be suffering because they are told they are fine when they are feeling awful.

[PinkNinja]

The guidelines for treatment are based on the old, less sensitive TSH test where 10 was considered hypothyroid. The current test is much more sensitive and the equivalent level is around 3. The "experts" who put together the guidelines don't seem to realise this.

I don't know if this information will make a bit of difference but, as others have said, the fact you have antibodies is enough to consider a trial of treatment.

I hope you have some success with this

Carolyn x

[Hidden in reply to PinkNinja]

thanks for your help I am going to push for a trial of meds so fingers crossed x