What to ask for with blood results

[sidneymark70]

Going for blood testss tomorrow. I have had Hashis for many years. I take 75 mg thyroxine. When I've asked for a copy of the tests in the past, all I've been given is one line of numbers. I know from here that I need much more. Please can someone tell me exactly what I need in my results. I know now that I shouldnt take thyroxine in the morning as usual before the test. This is a fasting test too.

[shaws Administrator]

Yes, you are right, no meds and it is earliest and fasting (you can drink water).

A full thyroid function test should be TSH, T4, T3, Free T4 and Free T3 and you do know you have antibodies. You can also ask for these to see if they've reduced or are higher. I don't know whether they will do them all as some labs, if TSH and T4 are fine wont do others. If you've not had B12, Vit D, iron, ferritin and folate tested ask for these too.

Get a print-out when results have been returned to surgery with the ranges and post for comments. Some surgeries charge a nominal sum for paper/ink.

[sidneymark70 in reply to shaws]

Thanks Shaws but I've asked for a print out before with hardly anything except a line on it. Sorry I just can't understand all the details that you all seem to be so well informed about. So do I just ask for a print out of the results? I have asked for vitamin D and B12 to be tested. Not sure if the rest will be included in what my GP has ticked.

[buddy11 in reply to sidneymark70]

hi here in northern ireland it is only a consultant can request a VIT D sample because of cost...dont know about the rest of UK though

[shaws Administrator in reply to sidneymark70]

It is much simpler for us just to ask for a print-out of our results. We are entitled by Law to have them. Tell your surgery you'll be doing this in future.

[Treepie in reply to sidneymark70]

I get my results on the GPs website using my password.Your practice should by now have a similar system but seems to be way behind.Ask for a print out of all your test results with the ranges showing and do not be put off as you are legally entitled to them.

[StitchFairy in reply to Treepie]

Not positive, but I think accessing test results online is only applicable to NHS England, so other parts of the UK may not have it yet.

[shaws Administrator in reply to sidneymark70]

Yes, it's much easier to request a print-out/copy of the results. If they ask why, say you need them for your file. They cannot refuse if you're in the UK. I get copies each time I have a test and pay 20p for them. Some may charge a little more. Everything should be stated with the ranges.