Initially, my TSH level was 8 mIU/L (normal range 0.4 to 4.0 mIU/L), with T3 and T4 within normal ranges. Upon starting a 0.25 euthyrox (T4) dosage, my TSH surged to 18, coinciding with the onset of mild discomfort in my rectal area, which I suspect may be hemorrhoids. Despite a dosage increase to 0.50 after three months, which possibly lowered my TSH to 16 (don't remember exact number), the discomfort worsened. Subsequently, with another dosage raise to 0.75, although my TSH possibly decreased slightly, the rectal discomfort intensified to the extent that I could not sit comfortably for more than 15 minutes. Upon realizing that my T4 levels were nearing the upper limit, I became concerned about the situation and lowered my dosage to 0 in next 5 months and the pain is gone. My TSH is now around 8 again, T3 and T4 mid range.
Any idea what is going on with TSH, T3 and T4? Thanks
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Biotamo
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Have you had a doctor examine you to investigate the discomfort? It would seem sensible to try and get that sorted if its an issue.
Its important to note that if you take Levo not long before a blood test then your FT4 will be falsley raised as its really measuring what you have just taken.
To see stable blood levels of FT4 you need to leave 24 hours between last dose of Levo & blood draw.
Recommended blood test protocol: Test at 9am (or as close as possible), fasting, last levo dose 24hrs before the blood draw & no biotin containing supplements for 3-7 days (Biotin can interfere with thyroid blood results as it is used in the testing process).
Testing like this gives consistency in your results and will show stable blood levels of hormone and highest TSH which varies throughout the day. Taking Levo/T3 just prior to blood draw can show a falsely elevated result and your GP/Endo might change your dose incorrectly as a result.
On starting Levothyroxine the body starts to make changes and although we would imagine that TSH should fall it doesn't always happen and it can rise as the body is adjusting itself to having thyroid hormone again. Healing is not in a straight line.
When you restart Levo then expect the unexpected and don't worry about the numbers too much. They will do what they will do but you clearly need it as your TSH is above range.
When hypo we get low stomach acid which means we cannot absorb vitamins well from our food, regardless of a great diet. For thyroid hormone to work well we need OPTIMAL levels of vitamins. Have you recently or could you ask your GP to test levels of ferritin, folate, B12 & D3? Private tests are available, see link for companies offering private blood tests & discount codes, some offer a blood draw service at an extra cost. thyroiduk.org/testing/priva...
There is also a new company offering walk in& mail order blood tests in London, Kent, Sussex & Surrey areas. Check to see if there is a blood test company near you. onedaytests.com/products/ul...
Only do private tests on a Monday or Tuesday to avoid postal delays.
So when did you take your last dose of levo before the blodo test as this can make a huge difference to your blood results.
TSH is not the be all and end all of thyroid treatment. Being under replaced can be as bad as being over replaced. If your GP thought you needed an increase then likely you did.
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New Bloods before operation raise questions TSH 5.6 range 0.27 to 4.20 and T4 10.66 rage 12 to 22
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Rundown of TSH, T3, T4
