Supressed TSH and osteoporisis/cardiac link.

[Scazzoh]

I have been taking NDT for a number of years now and I am very happy and well on it now. My TSH is around 0.01 (0.27-4.2) and my T3 and T4 are mid range. I get my blood tests done with Medichecks. The doctor's blurb that comes with the test results always states: 'Having very low levels of thyroid stimulating hormone for several years has been associated with the development of osteoporosis and cardiac problems. What is less clear is whether in the presence of normal levels of T3 and thyroxine these risks still stand.' The doctor then suggests I request a bone density scan. Is this true? I am sure I have seen evidence that this is not the case. I haven't been able to find a thread on this forum about it.

[RedApple Administrator]

Scazzoh, This gets brought up frequently on this forum. Whilst you're waiting for others to comment, look under Related Posts (on the right of my laptop screen) and you'll see lots of previous threads.

[Scazzoh in reply to RedApple]

Thank you. I didn't see the related posts when I did the search. Plenty of information here.

[PurpleNails Administrator]

It’s based on the “rule” that low TSH means thyroid levels are too high.

High FT4 & FT3 over time could contribute to osteoporosis. (So can low FT3, but doctors don’t emphasise this fact)

Doctors are taught the TSH tells them everything they need to know.

But your test show your FT4 & FT3 are mid range. Your levels are right for you, you feel well, your TSH doesn’t happen to reflect it.

The doctors might suggest you reduce your replacement as the lowering the thyroid level will (in theory) force the TSH to rise.

Low enough to for long enough you TSH *may* respond, or you may be one of the cases where the TSH remains permanently low. In which case you will be hypothyroid (& unwell) so doctors can be “happy” your TSH is in range.

[Zephyrbear]

Which is why I never go for the doctor’s comments anymore… 🧐