First Appointment with thyroid team

[Elaine22]

Hi

I have an appointment with thyroid team. I’ve been told to stop taking my Levo until my appointment, which is in 4 weeks,as I will be having a scan. Is this normal practice. I take a100mcg. What can I expect from not taking meds.

Any advice please

[ThyroidObsessed]

Hi there...

Iv never known this before?..

You should never be told to stop your levothyroxine especially for 4 weeks this is ludicrous!! as it is greatly needed to keep you well...

Iv had a scan 3 times over the years on my thyroid but have never been told to stop my levo!..

Whoever has told you this needs to go back to school....

[Elaine22 in reply to ThyroidObsessed]

Thank you for your reply.

I’ve had scans before to, with no medication stop, as Aesm has said could be radio active,. That worries me a little.

Not sure how long that takes or how safe it is.

[Aesm]

I know that if you are having a radio active iodine scan you should stop meds 40 days before as this effects the scan. But not for just a basic ultrasound scan.

[Elaine22 in reply to Aesm]

Thank you, just worries me what affect stopping them will cause, as I feel rubbish now.

[bantam12 in reply to Aesm]

I've had radio active scan but didn't have to stop Levo.

[Elaine22 in reply to bantam12]

I just think it’s strange, we are told never to miss one tablet.

I had a call from drs secretary, saying stop meds, she will be sending letter, so maybe that will give me more information. Thanks for your reply

[Stourie in reply to Elaine22]

Surely if you are having radio active iodine then it has been discussed with you and you agreed with them that you think that is the best option. I would check first and maybe get an appointment to discuss things. If its just an ordinary scan then no problems. Jo xx

[Elaine22 in reply to Stourie]

Hi jo

I told her I’m booked in for a scan. She said this is different. Of course I don’t want the radio active iodine.

As you said, I’ve not even discussed anything with anyone.

Thanks for your reply. Like everyone I just want my life back .

[greygoose]

I once asked for a scan at the hospital and was told I'd have to stop my levo for 6 weeks! I told them I didn't want a scan after all.

I think it depends on what type of scan you have, because I saw an endo who sent me for an ultrasound, and I didn't have to stop my levo for that. Perhaps you should ask your doctor for more details, because he might just be a tad confused?

[helvella Administrator Thyroid UK]

Without a doubt, check and double-check. Find out exactly what sort of scan they are doing.

It wouldn't be the first time that the wrong protocol was advised prior to a scan. Though there are circumstances in which it does appear necessary.

Post back!

[Elaine22 in reply to helvella]

Thank you, I am waiting on a letter with details.

[Fruitandnutcase in reply to Elaine22]

Forty or so years ago my sister in law had her thyroid removed because of a malignant cyst. When she went back for her check ups she used to have to stop her meds beforehand. She didn’t feel good at all but then she had the added stress about worrying if her doctors who’d ‘find anything’. By the way, she’s still going strong, fit as a fiddle and incredibly sporty and athletic.

I would ask why and be sure about it. You know, it could be that someone has just said that to you. I was told to take a urine sample for my first ever endo visit - turns out the person booking appointments says that to everyone but only the people who are diabetic need it. So ask again.

[Elaine22 in reply to Fruitandnutcase]

Thank you 🌞