Hi I’m new to all this but my grandmother and mother have a history with thyroid cancer but both was caught very late. My family wants me to get tested but my gp only wants to do a blood test. Is that enough? What do I look out for and what should I ask my doctor to test for? Should I go to a private doctor?
Any advice will be much appreciated
Welcome to the group. If you could complete your profile it helps members understand your thyroid journey so far and be able to advise you better. Click on your image icon to start. Fill out the free text box at the top.
Initially you would want to test TSH, FT4 & FT3 plus 2 types of antibodies TPO & Tg. The NHS often only tests TSH, sometimes FT4 and only test one type of antibody TPO so buying a private test will cover more things.
People with thyroid issues get low stomach acid and cannot absorb vitamins well from food. For that reason its recommended to also test key vitamins ferritin, folate, B12 & D3.
What symptoms do you have?
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.
Don't use Monitor My Health as its an NHS lab and wont run Tg antibodies.
Hi Golden Phoenix,
Tests done by GP may indicate certain anomalies , but in your situation I would be looking to get an ultrasound too. Ask your GP to refer you for one. If they are not willing, despite you emphasising your family history, you can probably get it done privately.
Another approach would be to put your concerns and family history into a letter. Send it to your GP and clearly state that you wish it to be placed in your medical notes. Doctors are not keen on implicating themselves, so it may prompt the desired action!
Welcome to our Great Forum. I would suggest a sonogram and additionally labs. Labs don't always pick up thyroid issues. In my case labs did not show any thyroid issues . But sonogram did show nodule. Best wishes for a happy outcome.
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