Test results

[KJP723]

Hi, I'm new here.

I was hoping someone might be able to give me an idea about my results? I've been having symptoms of fatigue, dizziness, pins & needles, headaches amongst lots of other symptoms. My iron is low end of normal and having investigations for b12 as I've had issues with b12 in the past, serum level in the normal range.

My thyroid results are in the normal range but on the b12 forum they suggested posting them here for advice.

Any info would be great. Thank you.

[Mary-intussuception]

I have Hashimoto's Autoimmune Thyroiditis and blood results returned to normal (Euthyroid ) after being Hypothyroid. With Hashimoto's you are Hyper first and bloods can fluctuate. Your T4 is low end of 'normal' range isn't it. You need more blood tests for Thyroid Antibodies. As far as I'm aware the GPs where I live don't do those , only hospital Consultants.

I asked my GP to send me for an Ultrasound scan of my Thyroid gland. The morning after that he made urgent referal to an Endocrinologist. My Thyroid Antibodies were very high.

Have you made a list of all your symptoms and checked it against the list for Underactive Thyroid?

Do you ever suffer with constipation? Irritable bowel? Have you gained weight? Do symptoms come after a cold or other infection? Have you any neck, throat, swallowing problems, - lumpiness, soreness?

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[greygoose]

Your TSH is obviously rising, and show that your thyroid is struggling. Your FT4 is low. But, you aren't quite hypo yet, I'm afraid. Especially not for a doctor. Symptoms often come long before the blood tests show positive for hypo, but doctors don't take symptoms into account.

Dizziness and pins and needles could be down to your B12 problem. And the fatigue down to low ferritin. Both need addressing. It might be a good idea to test your vit D, too.

But, don't give up on your thyroid. Keep testing at regular intervals, to see how things go.

[Clutter]

Welcome to the forum, KJP723.

TSH >2,0 indicates your thyroid is beginning to struggle and your FT4 is dropping but NHS won't usually diagnose hypothyroidism until either TSH is over 6.0 or FT4 is under 8.0.

Arrange future thyroid tests early in the morning when TSH is highest and fast (water only) as TSH drops after eating and drinking.

thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/diagno...

[shaws Administrator]

There is more to checking thyroid hormones than the TSH which it would appear doctors only take notice of. This is a link which may be helpful.

thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/testin...

I think a FT3 level would have been equally important.

Always have blood tests for thyroid hormones at the earliet possible, fasting (you can drink water) and fasting. You can drink water. If you were on thyroid hormones you'd allow a gap of 24 hours between last dose and test and take afterwards.

You should ask for B12, Vit D, iron, ferritin and folate to be tested as well. Deficiencies can cause problems too.

[KJP723]

Thank you for the responses. I do have IBS also. I have trouble swallowing & always feel like I have a lump in my throat when I'm talking. No visible swelling though (apart from lymph nodes on right side of neck, that's been swollen for a couple months)

Is there anything I can be doing to help with diet or herbal type things, without my doctor?

Thanks

[Mary-intussuception]

Have you considered asking your doctor to send you for the Ultrasound scan of your Thyroid? If he/she asks why just tell them all these symptoms you have mentioned here.

The only diet I would personally recommend is a healthy, balanced, varied diet. High in fibre - from fresh fruit and veg as far as possible. A Banana every morning and at least two other pieces of fruit that you like eg apple and pear every day. Drinking plenty of water. Avoid caffeine, cheese, bread (especially white) and large portions meat. Gentle exercise. Pelvic floor exercises to help with IBS.

I have a banana and porridge with added fine oat bran made with semi-skimmed milk for breakfast.

X

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[KJP723 in reply to Mary-intussuception]

I'm currently in the process of my doctor trying to prove me wrong on the b12 stuff so I'll mention the ultrasound to him once my test results are back which should be in the next week or two.

My diet has been really good this past year, I've been trying to lose weight so I've massively reduced processed food, I eat plenty of fruit & veg, meat, fish etc. Just this past 2 months I've tried to reduce gluten, I've not eaten bread in 2 months.

I could do with reducing the amount of tea I drink but struggle when I'm feeling tired.

I do yoga 3 times a week and was running regularly until a couple months ago when the fatigue dramatically got worse so now can't manage it at all.

Thanks.

[Mary-intussuception in reply to KJP723]

Have you tried decaffeinated tea. I can't tell any difference in taste. And just as refreshing. I find that drinking cold water helps if I feel tired.

X

[KJP723 in reply to Mary-intussuception]

I often have it in for friends but never thought to drink it myself!! Thanks for the tips x