I've had this for over 20 years, and only recently received a letter from my GP stating that I am overdue a blood test for my thyroid function. (Yes, about 20 years worth)
Then she went on to say it is very important that this is done on an annual basis. Ha! Doctors - you just gotta love them! Glad I'm still functioning and was utterly clueless (through no fault of mine) that this should be done on a yearly basis.
Blimey Sookiedee. you are very lucky if you are feeling okay and havent needed an increase!! 20 years! Goodness me! im still going every 6 - 8 weeks for blood tests and have been for the last 6 years to try and regulate on thyroid medication!!
I know - it was a shock to me also and NO GP told me about this until now! Going to get a blood test on Friday. Although I must admit my father had it also and I don't recall him getting an annual update. Or who knows, I was young and he probably didn't mention it.
I'm amazed!! You must have slipped through the net! Lets hope all is well when you get your results and at least you know now!!
20 years? You haven't had any thyroid functions tests for 20 years???!!! And you've been treated for 20 years? Picking up prescriptions once a month? Can you hear the sound of my jaw dropping?
When you get the tests done, ask for all of the following to be done :
TSH
Free T4
Free T3
Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (TPOAb)
Thyroglobulin Antibodies (TgAb)
Ferritin
Vitamin B12
Vitamin D
Folate
Also make sure that when the results are available that you get a copy of the results, including units of measurement and reference ranges. You are legally entitled to get a copy, but be aware the receptionists usually have to get permission from the doctor before they can print them out for you, so you may have to go back another day to actually get the results.
I should also have added - don't be surprised if the doctor won't do all the tests. But they definitely won't get done if you don't ask.
It is possible to get blood tests done privately without the interference of a doctor. If this is necessary, ask for details.
For 20 years I've been picking up the same prescription for levothyroxine (100 micro) and levothyroxine (25 micro)
Humanbean, I DID hear your jaw drop and thanks ever so much for the rest of your advice!
Sookiedee,
Arrange and early morning test when TSH is highest and fast (water only) as TSH drops after eating and drinking. Take your Levothyroxine dose after/b] the blood draw.
Clutter, really thanks for that tip - I'm going in early on Friday morning, will fast before and take the dose after. Appreciate it because that would have escaped me.
Thyroid function tests should be done every year. BY YOUR ENDO. Not the GP! Personally being on NDT I tell the surgery they would not understand the results as I am on NDT not nasty synthetic stuff.
I don't have an ENDO. Had my blood test today and should find out on Monday.
Rip Van Winkle here reporting that I did receive results of blood test - just have to increase the 25 mcg to 50 (I take 100 mcg already)
Thanks for all your advice and help.
Cellular hypothyroidism v glandular hypothyroidism. A Paper.
Various symptoms.....Hypothyroidism?
Subclinical Hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism/menopause/depression ?
Hypothyroidism and GERD
