? Private blood test

[JFJ131]

hi, can anyone please advise best place to get thyroid blood testing as go will not do more than annual TSH. Also, what are the markers? What I mean is, I have heard of t3 and t4 but also heard of others to make up about 7 things to test in a ‘full’ panel? Any tips. Would be appreciated thanks

[Jaydee1507 Administrator]

A full thyroid panel would be TSH, FT4 & FT3.

Often many companies add in antibody tests which would be TPO & Tg.

Its also recommended to get key vitamin levels tested - ferritin, folate, B12 & D3.

Many of the blood testing companies sell a package to include all of these tests.

Choosing a blood testing company is sometimes down to personal preference, also if you are OK doing an at home finger prick blood test - be sure to follow the preparation fully before attempting the test. Some companies offer a blood draw service for an extra cost.

Popular are Medichecks, Blue Horizon, Randox is cheapest.

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.

Do you do tests as per the protocol recommended here?

Recommended blood test protocol: Test at 9am (or as close as possible), fasting, last levo dose 24hrs before the blood draw, last T3 dose 8-12 hours before 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.

When collecting your sample try the following tips:

Drink plenty of water. Being well hydrated will make it easier to collect your sample.

Shower before you take your test or run your hands under warm water for a few minutes, as heat improves blood flow.

Do some light exercise (move around, go for a walk, etc.) to get the blood flowing.

Make sure your arm is below your heart level – let gravity do some of the work.

Nails that are too long can make it difficult to collect a sample.

Do not shake the sample vigorously but invert the tube gently 10 times. (gently swirl the tube after each drop of blood).

Do not squeeze (milk) the finger.

Re-warm your hands during collection where needed.

[JFJ131 in reply to Jaydee1507]

many thanks for such a comprehensive reply. I will take your good advice. Thank you and best wishes.