T3 levels

[ali56]

Hi can anyone tell me what it means when T3 level stays constant at mid range but TSH

Rises and t4 drops. T3 has been 4.4 range 0.0-7.0. TSH 3.58 t4 14 range 11- 22. Am in remission from graves not on any meds but every blood test T3 is always 4.

Hope have explained ok thank you.

Ali56

[greygoose]

As I see it, the TSH is rising because the FT4 is dropping. But, as TSH drives conversion, the higher TSH means that more T4 is being converted so that the FT3 stays at a steady level. However, this cannot go on forever, because soon, there won't be enough T4 to convert, and the FT3 will drop, making the TSH rise even further.

[ali56 in reply to greygoose]

Thanks grey goose could this be the reason why I don't feel so good even though I keep getting told levels are normal!!!!

[greygoose in reply to ali56]

When a doctor says 'normal', what he means is 'in range'. But, the range is so vaste that it can't possible be 'normal' at the bottom as well as the top. But, doctors don't understand ranges.

You feel bad because the FT3 level is not 'normal' for you. It's not high enough for you. Do you have a diagnosis of hypo? Are you on thyroid hormone replacement? If so, you need an increase in dose.

You could also have nutritional deficiencies. Have you had your vit D, vit B12, folate and ferritin tested?

[ali56]

Do not have diagnosis of hypo as consultant said you are in remission from graves and your levels are normal!!!! Discharged me to GP so am going to GP later today. Am not on any medication, will ask about tests for nutritional deficiencies. Thank you for your comments greygoose much appreciated.

[greygoose in reply to ali56]

Well, I suppose that's one way of putting it! I would have said that you've now gone too far the other way, and need some thyroid hormone replacement. How long have your levels been like that? They may be expecting things to 'sort themselves out', but if you are suffering, then something should be done. That TSH is certainly not 'normal'!

[ali56]

Thanks greygoose my TSH has been steadily rising for a year. Consultant not interested hence discharged to GP. Saw GP today he said he would do all bloods including b12 lfts, u&e,s in fact everything I asked for also full thyroid profile and antibodies. So will have a better idea of where to go regarding treatment. Consultant wrote in letter to GP check bloods in 6 months!!!!! GP is doing them this week.