T4 over 100

[Fruit3579]

I have Graves which has been fairly well controlled until about 3 weeks ago. Blood test 8 weeks ago- all good on 5mg carb. Blood test last week and everything has gone to pot. Now on 40mg carb. I’ve not taken this much for years! My questions are how long before I feel better and why am I feeling worse in the morning than the afternoon? Thanks.

[pennyannie]

Hello Fruit and welcome to the forum ;

Graves is an auto immune disease and you can experience phases of either stimulating or blocking antibodies driving your thyroid hormone production to extremes of symptoms as they fight for control of your thyroid.

The thyroid is the victim in all this and not the cause - as the cause is one of your own immune system having been triggered to turn and attack your body rather than defend it.

I can only imagine your dose of the Anti Thyroid drug is now too low and not blocking your thyroid hormone production enough.

It would help forum members help you better if we had more information,

I see you were diagnosed some 20 odd years ago - do you have your original TSH, Free T3 and Free T4 readings and ranges and the same readings on this past blood test some 8 weeks ago :

I'm presuming you also have the medical evidence of the Graves Disease antibody blood test, usually written as a Thyroid Receptor blocking - TR ab - or a TSI - a Thyroid Stimulating positive and over range reading is with your original records ?

I too have Graves but was told at my very first endo appointment I was to have RAI thyroid ablation the following year, I knew no different back in 2005, and went along with the medical advice, and deeply regret this treatment option.

For all things Graves - though presume you already know - elaine-moore.com

[PurpleNails Administrator]

Welcome to forum.

I’m answer to your question - most feel better once levels have been brought down into range although some symptoms can linger.

Was the test for total or Free T4? Always includ lab range with results as ranges vary between labs.

Depending on where your FT4 & FT3 are this it likely going to take a 6-8 weeks. Likely months before you’re feeling completely well.

The longer / higher you levels are abnormal the longer it can take to recover.

How is your sleep? Insomnia is quite common with hyperthyroidism & feeling worse in morning is very common.

Have you had any other tests?

For full thyroid you need TSH, FT4 & FT3.

Have you even had thyroid antibodies tested ( TPO & TG confirm autoimmune) to confirm Graves you need either positive TRab or TSI.

Graves is known to remit & relapse & the reasons aren’t understood. Some feel they recognise triggers eg stress / other health issues - which causes a return. Doctors often suggest surgery or Radioactive iodine to stop the possibility of hyper after 18 months of treatment.

Also important to test folate,ferritin, B12 & Vitamin d. Have they been tested? As likely to be low if thyroid abnormal.