Central Thyroidism (Secondary)

[EmChar]

Hi My thyroid results may possibly suggest Secondary Thyroidism. Has anyone had any success with diagnosis and would be able to recommend an Endocrinologist in South East Wales or as near as possible. Also have very low ferritin levels but apparently no Anemia. Diagnosed Pernicious Anemia in 2013. Any feedback appreciated. Thank you.

[SlowDragon Administrator]

As you have Pernicious Anaemia, having autoimmune thyroid disease (Hashimoto's) is more likely

For full Thyroid evaluation you need TSH, FT4, FT3 plus TPO and TG thyroid antibodies and also very important to test vitamin D, folate, ferritin and B12

Ask your GP to test both TPO And and TG thyroid antibodies and also vitamin D (Or test privately)

Private tests are available. Thousands on here forced to do this as NHS often refuses to test FT3 or antibodies

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

Medichecks Thyroid plus ultra vitamin or Blue Horizon Thyroid plus eleven are the most popular choice. DIY finger prick test or option to pay extra for private blood draw. Both companies often have money off offers.

All thyroid tests should ideally be done as early as possible in morning and fasting. This gives highest TSH, lowest FT4 and most consistent results. (Patient to patient tip, GP will be unaware)

[SlowDragon Administrator]

Also as you have gut issues ask GP for coeliac blood test

Gluten intolerance is common with autoimmune disease

amymyersmd.com/2017/02/3-im...

chriskresser.com/the-gluten...

thyroidpharmacist.com/artic...

scdlifestyle.com/2014/08/th...

drknews.com/changing-your-d...

[EmChar in reply to SlowDragon]

Hi thanks for reply. I have had coeliac test done quite a few times and it comes back negative/normal. My TSH last test 2017 was 1.7 and FT4 10pmol/L not sure if fasting though. B12 and folate fine but low ferritin 12 not Anemia apparently. Concern seems to be absorption problem but GP not pursuing this. Next appointment with gastroenterologist on 26/09 will ask them for further tests.

Thanks again.

[SlowDragon Administrator in reply to EmChar]

Vast majority are gluten intolerant not coeliac

(I found that out the hard way!)

Definitely worth trying strictly gluten free diet for 3-6 months minimum. If it helps stick on it

Get vitamin D tested via GP, gastroenterologist or privately

[zerendipity]

I am in the same boat as you - TSH normal (1.4 - 2.5) and thyroid hormones below range. I was very symptomatic and miserable before I got medicated by a psychiatrist(!). I did improve on levo but after 6 months I crashed (due to iron def. anaemia) and then continued on combination treatment. Sadly I am yet to find an endo who would think I am worthy of their attention and medication, so I’m self medicating.

Good luck!

[Marz]

Am afraid I am not able to assist with Central Hypothyroidism - however it is discussed here from time to time. If you are on a PC then look to the right of this page to Related Posts where you will see 10 similar posts. If on a phone or similar then scroll down and down to find the same heading 😊