Confused

[Jackiez]

If I'm optimally medicated on Levothyroxine, which according to my GP I am, as my TSH is 0.2, why have I just read that below 0.3 means it's supressed? What does that mean?

[shaws Administrator]

Doctors cannot tell if the patient is 'optimally medicated' just by looking at a dot on a piece of paper. Optimally medicated means we are on sufficient thyroid hormones that relieves all clinical symptoms. However many do not recover until T3 is added to their T4. Two recent Scientific papers have proved it, as well as patients who feel much better when T3 is added or switch to NDT or T3 only. The problem is they do not prescribe options (some will T3) either adding T3, and prescribing NDT is forbidden by the Authorities, who've spread rumours about NDT. It has been in use, successfully and safely in various forms since 1892 for nearly one century and given sufficient for relief of symptoms.

We are not machines. Some members have added their own additions or switched altogether.

[Jackiez in reply to shaws]

Luckily I have been referred to Endo consultant as my symptoms are as bad as ever, but my GP said that they are now only allowed to test TSH and T4, and can only prescribe Levothyroxine now. Anything else has to be done by a specialist. This is in Wales by the way. At least I got an appointment quickly, so will hopefully get some answers next month.

[shaws Administrator in reply to Jackiez]

I hope you get a nice Endo who will prescribe for you, whatever combination makes you feel good.

[Clutter]

Jackiez,

TSH is a pituitary hormone which responds to circulating T4 and T3 levels. TSH 0.2 is suppressed which simply means it is low or below range. TSH level alone cannot determine someone is optimally medicated. It is necessary to see T4 and T3 levels too. Many people have low or suppressed TSH with less than optimal T4 and T3.

[Jackiez in reply to Clutter]

Thank you, I'm struggling to think clearly!

[SlowDragon Administrator]

In previous posts you mention low B12 and possible PA. Did you get a GP to test for PA.

Also ask GP for blood tests for B12, folate, Vitamin D and ferritin so that you can take up to date test results with you.

[Jackiez in reply to SlowDragon]

My GP did all the blood tests apart from intrinsic factor. As my B12 was in range he didn't think it was at all possible that I had PA. All my symptoms could be attributed to long term hypothyroidism apparently. Anyway, he at least agreed that there's something going wrong somewhere, and has referred me. Fingers crossed😊 !