Preparing for GP appt

[Fb104]

Hello

I have a GP appointment in a few weeks to discuss blood tests results and symptoms (tiredness, weight gain, low mood, pins and needles). Based on what I've read on this forum, it sounds like these symptoms and results could be indicative of hypothyroid, but because TSH is within range I'm unlikely to get an NHS prescription. Any suggestions as to how to approach?

Ferritin: 19.1 (30 - 180) (Low)

Cholesterol: 5.95 (<5) (High)

B12, Folate and Vit D normal

TSH: 3.64 (0.27 - 4.2)

T3: 4.5 (3.1 - 6.8)

T4: 15.2 (12 - 22)

TPO: 335 (0 - 34)

TPA: 230 (0 - 115)

[TiggerMe Ambassador]

What time of day was your test done? Your TSH could have be higher if done after 9am

[Fb104 in reply to TiggerMe]

It was pre 9am, fasting

[TiggerMe Ambassador in reply to Fb104]

Hmm, you'll likely be told to come back next year 😕 but they should at least look into your low ferritin and do a full iron panel

[greygoose]

You have high antibodies - meaning you have Autoimmune Thyroiditis - and high cholesterol, suggesting that your FT3 is too low (the very definition of hypothyroidism). Cholesterol levels used to be used to diagnose hypo before the invention of the wretched TSH! Bet your GP doesn't know that.

[Fb104 in reply to greygoose]

That's really interesting! Are you aware of any articles which suggest cholesterol could/should be used as a tool to determine whether to prescribe?

[greygoose in reply to Fb104]

Thyroid Health Impacts Cholesterol

It is well known that healthy cholesterol levels are dependent on thyroid function. Hypothyroidism a common cause of abnormal cholesterol, lipid production and lipid disposal.

Thyroid levels must be checked and optimized prior to any consideration of statin drug therapy. How many doctors are missing this piece? TONS.

hypothyroidmom.com/are-chol...

I've probably got more, but searching through my saved articles is long and tedious, so it will take me a while to find anything else.

[PinkSkittles in reply to Fb104]

forefronthealth.com/hypothy...

forefronthealth.com/how-to-...

[serenfach]

Point out to your GP that the high antibodies show your thyroid is struggling, as does the TSH, and you would like to start treatment before you get seriously ill. He will probably ask for further tests in 3 months, this is standard. In the meantime ask him for a futher ferritin test now as you want to optimise your vitamins etc before the three months is up. Good luck!