Hello. I'm a newbie but I've been following posts for a while to pick up what info I can. My family has strong history of thyroid problems going back to my grandfather. Both my mother and sister have had thyroid operations. I've had subclinical hypothyroidism for some years. The GP is supposed to track things but testing has been sporadic. To be fair I haven't pressed as my symptoms are mild - dry itchy skin, bit of brain fog, difficulty in losing weight, hair not strong. However I'm recently diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation, so I've had to wake up. I also have another heart condition, Microvascular Angina.
I had to go to A & E last Oct with the Atrial Fibrillation. Unbeknown to me they tested TSH which was "abnormal" and in April the hospital wrote to my GP asking to test it again. I think it was within range this time but my only contact with the surgery was through the pharmacist who was prescribing medication for the Atrial Fibrillation. I thought it was about time I took action myself, so I took the Blue Horizon tests.
I would be grateful for your comments on the results, particularly a couple of aspects. In normal circumstances I don't think the GP would do anything despite TSH being slightly out of range because Free T4/3 are within range, albeit on the low side. Does anybody know whether Atrial Fibrillation changes things? I'm struggling to understand how A Fib relates to underactive thyroid. I can see how an overactive thyroid would have a negative impact on things but not sure about the other way round. I'm also a member of the A Fib forum, so I'll see if they have any thoughts as well. Should I be pushing the GP to do something? It would be wonderful for my heart generally to be able to lose weight but it's an uphill battle.
I guess the high levels of TPO point to Hashimotos. Back in 2016 my GP records show abnormal TPO levels (no further information) so it's been going on for some time at least. I need to address whether I can do something to improve this autoimmune response. I've picked up going gluten free might help. Any other pointers?
Any other thoughts would be lovely.
Thank you!