Anyone successful in getting a diagnosis of Central Hypothyroidism in Devon?

[ShonaGreen]

Hi,

I'm new here and posted a message earlier today asking for help interpreting blood test results for TSH, Free T4 and Free T3. Based on my results, I'm wondering about central hypothyroidism. I'd appreciate any advise from anyone diagnosed with this and whether you know of any specialists in Devon?

Thanks!

[Mary-intussuception]

Hi

I've looked at your first post - LOW (below range) FreeT3 and low (bottom of range ) FreeT4 - this surely indicates Hypothyroidism? Your TSH is also low in range so your Pituitary Gland is not responding to low FT4 by producing more TSH. This indicates a Pituitary Gland problem. I would - Ask your GP to refer you to an Endocrinologist. Ask your GP to test all the Pituitary Gland hormones while you wait for the appointment.

There is a Pituitary Foundation in UK. You could try them for information and advice. If you call next week you can get medical info.

Patient Support & Information Helpline :

0117 370 1320 Mon to Fri 10am - 4pm

Endocrine Nurse Helpline ( Providing Medical Information & Support ):

0117 370 1317 Mon; Tues & Wed (times on website ).

email support:

[e-mail]

[ShonaGreen in reply to Mary-intussuception]

Hi, thanks so much for your message. I've looked at the website and some very interesting info, fingers crossed my GP will be helpful today!

[Mary-intussuception in reply to ShonaGreen]

I think I would be wanting to see a good Endocrinologist before starting any treatment. Think I'd be asking for Hypophalmic - Pituitary - Adrenal investigations.

I'm not medically qualified but have found that asking medical people for investigations has sometimes got me somewhere.

When I was referred to an Endocrinologist I didn't need to ask for my Adrenal function to be checked first - he requested it anyway. Don't have the same as you (low TSH - mine high) so can't speak from experience.

All the best at the GP appointment today x

[MaisieGray in reply to Mary-intussuception]

Not necessarily a problem with the pituitary - secretion of TSH can be impaired at either the hypothalamic or the pituitary level.

[Peroxideblader]

hi there I'm in the same boat I have low t4 low t3 and low tsh but after 2 years of private and nhs blood tests showing the levels they still say I don't have an issue..they won't refer me to an endo so I'm booking private soon but it's in Manchester for me I'm afraid...but let us know how you get on it's hard enough getting diagnosed for hypothyroidism but hypopituarism like we have is off the radar it's not common so you're even more dismissed

[Mary-intussuception]

Can't recall exact words but think I read on the 'net (Pituitary Foundation website I think) that it's reported to be rare, but possibly not diagnosed / under-diagnosed so more common than actually reported.

[experimental1]

My primary, only a few years out of medical school, suspected CH and referred me to an endo(I'm in the US) . She wasn't much help. The primary won't be proactive and prescribe thyroid, plus, to make it worse, a urologist suspects I might have CH but endocrinology isn't something he does.

I'm self treating with T3/T4 drops from a research vendor, 1% HC ointment and DHEA. My mood, energy and libido are improving, as is sleep, but my weight won't budge.

[ShonaGreen]

Just an update - I saw a new GP today and thankfully they're being very supportive. Thinks that need to do some more tests to see what's causing the low TSH, T3 and T4 levels, including thyroid antibodies, FSH & LH, prolactin, Vitamin D and iron panel (as previous higher than normal ferritin level). Also starting on Levothyroxine at 50mg to see if that makes a difference. GP wants to see me again in few weeks once have blood test results and will refer to endocrinologist of rheumatologist if needed. So fingers crossed I'm on the right track now, thanks for all your responses and helpful info!