Advice before visit to GP please.........

[Dollychris]

Hello,

My GP feels that there is no need for T3 testing and my last blood test just shows TSH result. How can I best persuade her to consider more comprehensive testing? I have gradually dropped from 175 Mcgs of Levo down to 100mcgs over the last year or so. Not a problem as my TSH had showed as surpressed for some time with a note of 'over medicated' until another GP in the practice read results and rang to ask if it would be ok to drop further from the 125 to 100 around 4 months ago.

Been feeling really unwell, cannot sleep at night and if I awaken early hours am ready to rise, hair still falling out and generally feel downright awful. On the plus side my Hemiplegic migraine is much improved on the Topirimate prescribed and that is wonderful.

Last test result was TSH 0.07 mu/L (0 . 30 - 4 . 40) "Low"

Only other highlighted observation on full bloods was

"Red Blood cell Distribution width" 15.6 % (11. 0 - 14. 8) "High"

No other observations in blood results are highlighted but could scan if gives a clearer picture. I don't want to overpower you on a weekend with a long list!!

It just seems such an uphill struggle to just get sorted and feel well again. It takes a lot to even get me to the GP but I know I have to really be strong this time and get my point over.

Any advice very much appreciated.

[Gyon]

You seems hyper based on your TSH result but the story can be very different beyond TSH. GP will never test you for T3. The way I got through to an endo is paying for my own test. Took the results to gp, who had not a clue and gave me the referral that I was fighting for years. I ordered mine here purehealthclinic.co.uk/. also dont forget to do an adrenal profile test as well. thyroid and adrenals go hand in hand. good luck

[Clutter]

Dollychris, Low TSH is no guarantee of good FT4 levels for conversion to T3. Read Dr. Toft's comments on thyroid levels and dosing in Treatment Options thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/about_... Email [e-mail] if a copy of the full Pulse article will be helpful to show your GP.

I doubt FT3 will be tested by the lab unless TSH is suppressed <0.03. Even so, in some areas it appears that FT3 is not tested in primary care.

You can order private thyroid tests from Blue Horizon and Genova via thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/testin...

[Hidden]

Dollychris,

It is horrible feeling unsupported by your GP. How on earth can they prescribe medication needed in precise amounts when they can't even conduct a comprehensive thyroid hormone test.

You can either ask for an endos referral or order your own private tests.

ThyroidUK offer discounts.

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

Flower007

[Glynisrose]

NEVER allow your doctor to reduce your meds based on blood tests alone!!

[Dollychris]

Thank you all for your advice and comments. I just wish we didn't have to fight so hard just to feel well. I'll try again for more comprehensive testing and if the answer is no, I am considering self medicating with T3 but will make sure I take advice first.

Makes me angry that we should even consider having to do this though, as surely this should be a right and all we want is to feel 'normal' again and back in good health. Also think will tell my GP that I intend getting the private blood testing done if she refuses.

I was given Levo when first diagnosed over 4 yrs ago and that has been increased up and down ever since. Thanks again all - what would I do without your help and advice?

xx

[Dollychris]

Thank you all so much for the advice. My last full bloods in April showed Serum Ferritin as 98 ug/L (15 - 300)

I certainly will ask for more comprehensive testing and say that TSH is just not enough, but think it will be the same thing all over again.

I really appreciate the advice you are all offering and won't give in. My appointment is on Monday morning so will be armed with appropriate information at the ready.............