Update re blood test

[RedorBed]

Hi everyone,

I've been given my cholesterol results and told my thyroid results are normal.

T4 - 12.1

TSH - 3

Do you agree these results are normal? I wasn't given ranges or anything. I'm undecided whether or not to get private tests done to get a full picture.

My doctor doesn't seem encouraging about lowering cholesterol levels with diet and exercise...

[TiggerMe Ambassador]

Your thyroid is showing signs it is struggling, was this result from a pre 9am fasting blood draw?

Have you any result for folate, ferritin, B12 and Vit D?

[RedorBed in reply to TiggerMe]

Thanks for replying, no it wasn't - blood test was taken at 10.30am, I hadn't eaten but had a few cups of tea prior (wasn't told to fast).

I think I just had a routine blood test so don't think it would have included vitamins. Do you think it would be worth getting a private test done? The reason I requested a blood test is because I'm having several symptoms of underactive thyroid, but the doctors are more concerned about my cholesterol!

[TiggerMe Ambassador in reply to RedorBed]

Definitely worth getting a private test that includes fT3 one that covers Vit D, B12, folate and ferritin would be even better and following the guidelines for an early draw when TSH is at its peak

[RedorBed in reply to TiggerMe]

Thank you, I will look into which one is best and see what that says.

[TiggerMe Ambassador in reply to RedorBed]

Have a look at the Thyroid UK site to see who offers discounts and codes

[TiggerMe Ambassador in reply to TiggerMe]

I actually used Randox yesterday as I needed a blood draw, they are opening clinics in John Lewis so might be worth a look?

[greygoose]

Do you agree these results are normal?

Can't tell for the FT4 without a range. But the TSH is definitely not 'normal' (euthyroid). It should be around 1 for someone not on thyroid hormone replacement, and possibly/probably under one for someone who is taking levo etc.

My doctor doesn't seem encouraging about lowering cholesterol levels with diet and exercise...

Well, he's right there! lol Although I doubt he knows what. Cholesterol levels have nothing to do with diet and exercise. Cholesterol is made in the liver, and the liver keeps the level steady by making more when you ingest less and vice versa. However, when T3 is low, the body cannot process cholesterol correctly, and it tends to build up in the blood. And, judging by your TSH, your FT3 is more than likely low. But, as they never test the FT3, we can't know. And, I think that's done deliberately! Does he want you to take statins? If so, don't.

[Batty1]

Its been my experience that thyroid issues are never considered when you have high cholesterol…. I have no thyroid and my cholesterol is insanely high my Endo doesn’t even blink. You should do private blood test following the rules here.