Test results

[Baddels]

I am new and not very up to speed. I had my thyroid removed several years ago and take 175mcg to 200 mcg of levo daily. I had a goitre. I have recently had my annual blood test results and were told they are ok. I have been having problems with my weight now for several years and believe this is due to the levo levels or my TSH or T4 and T3 levels. I have not been told what these levels are. What information should I be asking my doctor and is there anything I need to be aware of? I am 52 so my hormones may also be playing a part.

Also, what is the best time to take the tablets as I am aware that they should not be taken with calcium with a break of 4 hours - is this true?

[Marz]

Hi and Welcome ! Please obtain your latest results from your GP surgery and post here in a new post - with ranges as labs do vary. Unless you have them to hand - then post them now.

Do you have Hashimotos - TPO & Tg anti-bodies should be tested if you do not know. The Full Thyroid Profile is rarely tested by the NHS so you may have to go privately through Thyroid UK - see link below ....

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

Also ensure you have results for B12 - Folate - Ferritin and VitD - all need to optimal for your Levo to work well in the body and for you to feel well. You are legally entitled to have copies of your results - they are YOURS !

May I ask why Calcium ? Are you taking any other medication ? Supplements ? Yes you are right to take calcium away from Levo to prevent it binding to the calcium and not being absorbed. Take your Levo one hour away from food and only drink water - or take it at night

[Clutter]

Welcome to the forum, Baddels.

Normal is a very broad range. We need optimal results to feel well. Ask your GP receptionist for a printout of your recent thyroid results and ranges. If you have been tested for ferritin, vitamin D, B12 and folate ask for those results and ranges too. Write a new post with the results and ranges and members will advise.

Levothyroxine can be taken any time of day or night and research has shown that bedtime can be more effective than morning. For maximum absorption Levothyroxine should be taken with water 1 hour before, or 2 hours after, food and drink, 2 hours away from other medication and supplements, and 4 hours away from calcium, iron, vitamin D supplements, magnesium and oestrogen.