I am a newbie and this is my first post, so I am hoping not to break any rules!
I am a 68 year old male who was diagnosed with ME/CFS 10 years ago. I say "diagnosed" but looking back nobody actually came out and said so unequivocally, although that said my GP did accept the probability. It was more a case of a "process of elimination" when all other tests done were negative. But for my part I must say I had, and still have the classic symptoms.
However, as time has gone on and I have learned a good deal more on the subject, hypothyroidism has come into the picture. Also it is a fact that in the early days a thyroid blood test was never offered to me, and I had to request one myself early on. Indeed I have had three during this period and in each case I have been told that they came back "normal". I might add that I have only become aware more recently that the NHS no longer routinely does a full test and this is what concerns me. So much so that I am prepared to have a private test using one of the services recommended by Thyroid UK. But which one that is the question? As I am sure you know they are not exactly cheap on the one hand, but on the other I want to pay for the best most comprehensive blood test available, and hopefully get to the bottom of it. Perhaps I should mention that my current symptoms seem to me to fit those of hypothyroidism to the letter.
Can some kind soul much more knowedgable on the subject enlighten me on what specifically needs to be checked?
Any help would be appreciated.
kind regards,
boydell.
Written by
boydell
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It covers just about everything you might want to know about your thyroid. Read the analytes and requirements as well as the links in the Additional Resources box.
If it interests you, phone the Genova automated kit ordering line to get sent all the bits and pieces you need for the test. It can be returned in the post (you must pay for guaranteed next day delivery) or by courier (the courier cost is added to the cost of the test if you use this method). Instructions and all necessary packaging for either return method are supplied.
When asked for a practitioner say "Thyroid UK". Payment details have to be supplied when you return the samples, not when you order the test.
Please note you will have to arrange for your blood to be drawn yourself. If you look at the replies that I made in this thread it gives you a few ideas on how that can be done :
If you don't live near London then your choices are limited. I have used Spire hospital in Leeds with Blue Horizon blood tests for TSH, T3 T4 and antibodies. They, BH send you the paperwork and you have to book an appointment at the hospital. Always have tests as early in day as possible. I have also used Genova for mineral tests: iron zinc, selenium, calcium, magnesium. They gave me details of a local GP practice to use for phlebotomy (£35).
If you use thyroid uk website to access BH (Mention TUK for a discount) not all their tests are visible. Go into their BH site separately to see all the tests they offer. They do have special offers, I got a whole lot of tests done for half price! Results are sent to you both by BH and Genova usually by email.
Post them on here for useful comments about what you should do next.
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