NHS Thyroid blood test

[topaz1]

Just come home from asking my GP for an annual thyroid blood test. Got the impression I could have the test but it's not necessary! I gave him my list of tests I would like done and he noticed the antibodies. Why did I want those tested so I explained that left untreated they would destroy the thyroid and as I'd been gluten free for 2 years I would like to see that they had gone down/disappeared. He more or less rubbished that and everything else I said. So I have a blood test appointment but have no idea what for!

Rant over!!

[Clutter]

Topaz1,

Antibodies are a response to lymphocyte infiltration of the thyroid gland. Antibody levels fluctuate and will be high after an attack on the gland and subside in between attacks. There is no treatment to prevent destruction of the thyroid gland although progression may be delayed by dietary changes, in particular, gluten-free diet. Once NHS has established that hypothyroidism is due to autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto's) they won't continue monitoring it to see how, or whether, antibody levels have dropped in response to dietary or other lifestyle changes.

[shaws Administrator]

It is really ridiculous that they have no idea what the function of the thyroid gland is. Considering it runs our whole metabolism from head to toe.

[elwins]

I think it is important to get annual test done to keep a eye on things, if I go over my date for my annual test, I get a call from the Dr's surgury asking me to call them, this year I have diaried to make sure I do not forget.

[topaz1 in reply to elwins]

Maybe I'll diarise for next year and wait to see if the surgery calls me in!!!

[Scazzoh]

Hi Topaz, if you try and protect your thyroid gland against antibodies, by taking measures such as avoiding gluten and dairy, you have a better chance of it doing its job for longer. The NHS just doesn't get this. You could call your surgery to ask what blood tests have been arranged for you and then see if you actually want to have them done.

[topaz1 in reply to Scazzoh]

Thanks Scazzoh, that's a good idea.