Seeing GP soon. Levels and tests info to take to him please.

[Maggimay]

Does anyone know the range in other countries. My doc reduded my meds because I was above the range ( T4 I think ) resulting in terrible issues. 2 consultants have said I need to run higher than the range due to severe bowel trauma. Bowel willl not work otherwise and then only with a device to help. Seeing doc soon and info from other countries would be great.

Also could someone post the tests I need to aks docs for. Think I have got it all but safe side.

Sorry if this is repeat post. Not good at tech and it keeps disappearing before I sedn. Thanks Maggi

[Phoenix605]

I cant help with the ranges in other countries but the tests usually recommended are:

TSH

FT4

FT3

TPO and TgAB antibodies

And equally important especially with your bowel issues:

B12

Folate

Vit D

Ferritin

We need optimal nutrient levels to convert and use T4 properly, most of us have nutrient absorption issues and yours are likely to be worse. GP may refuse the antibodies and T3 or lab may refuse to do them, TUK has links to companies who offer reasonably priced private finger prick tests if needed, but I would see what GP agrees to first.

I would get consultants to write to GP and reitterate in no uncertain terms that you must have high levels of thyroid hormone, where they should be kept and why. A written reminder of the harm that will be caused if he doesnt comply permanently attached to your file might just concentrate his mind. If not dump him and find another GP who IS willing to listen.

[Maggimay in reply to Phoenix605]

Thanks for that Really helpful. Good idea re letter from consultant. I wouldnt dump GP He is the best I ever had. I think he was scared by the levels and fogot about the bowel doc as did I in the moment. He does listen and I am hopeful that he will agree to leaving things alone now. Have got lots of helpful stuff from folks on here to give him. I did speak to both him and someone from Bowel Consultants team and I did get the meds put back up. So am feeling better and bowel improving. Best outcome for me would be not to test the dratted blood at all and as long as I am plodding along leave it alone and dont go looking for trouble! But if I have to be tested I want to be sure it is done right. I was on T3 at one time but it was wrongly prescribed and made things worse. Am hoping not need it again but have signed petition and will write to MP. Thanks again for the help

[Maggimay in reply to Phoenix605]

Hi again. Thanks Have seen GP He has put in big letters right across my notes exactly what you said about having to have high levels and why. He was really sorry for taking level down. He had tested the nutrient levels Long appointment and forgot yo ask for copy of results but will get them.Am definitely on mend now meds back up. Might get private test done to see if I need T3 etc. Gp hands tied by CCG Jeremy Hunt and co! Had massive battle with them for bowel treatment. Gp Consultant and my MP all involved! What a state the NHS is in. Poor nurses on their knees! Best not to start me. Anyway GP says he will support me if I need to get meds from abroad. Thanks to everyone who has advised me especially as I am useless with tech and keep losing advice. This relly is a great group. I hope I can help one day. Maggi

[Heloise]

Hi Maggie, Unfortunately all countries make it difficult for thyroid patients. The ranges for TSH are similar and we aim for 01.0 but doctors worry and often refuse to allow it to go that low even though it leaves the patient with many low thyroid symptoms.

The objective of taking T4 (Levo) is to convert it to FT3 which is what helps relieve symptoms. When your T4 just remains as T4 or Reverse T3 instead of T3 the hormone is rendered useless. This is why many have added T3 to the regimen or change to an NDT.

First, it would be good to get your other labs and this website is helpful. Check the note at the bottom about European ranges. stopthethyroidmadness.com/l...

[Maggimay]

Thanks very much for the info.