what test should I ask GP to test for underactive thyroid. it runs in my family and I recognise I have symptoms.

[frecklyminx]

[mummytina]

Its usually a blood test that can tell whether you have an underactive thyroid, it tests your TSH levels, your FT4 and T3 levels. When you get these post them on here and someone will be able to help you.

Tina

[frecklyminx in reply to mummytina]

Many thanks I will get that done tommorow

[Hidden]

you could have a look at the main site for info here's a link to the diagnosis page...

thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/diagno...

It's also worth getting vitamin and mineral levels checked too, as some symptoms co-incide.

Vit D, irons, ferratin, folate B12.

Jane

[frecklyminx in reply to Hidden]

The Doctor has told me she will test for the ones you have mentioned so Thankyou

[Hidden]

It is usually more a case of which test you will GET.

In many areas (but not all) my area included, you will find the GP will arrange bloods for a "Thyroid function test" which is a great misnomer,(AKA as a great big stinking LIE!) it means TSH will be tested ONLY. IF that test is outside the laboratory range, ie. it's sky high or very low, then other tests will be run on that blood sample, just free T4, but or including Free T3 and may or may not include Antibodies too... even if the Doctor asks specifically for more tests to be run, generally they will not be done without that TSH level being the key to those tests! Naturally, it's all about cost.

Of course it also depends on the individual laboratory what the actual level of TSH is in that "normal" range, and it varies a fair bit too!

However If you are very lucky geographically, you wont' even have to ask!

Mad isn't it?

[frecklyminx in reply to Hidden]

I am in Cumbria so I hope they do but somehow doubt it! It is all so complicated, that is why am trying to get as much information as possible, Thank you for the advice

[Starfish123]

Hi,

You must also ask for the thyroid antibodies test, they don't test this as standard. This is how mine was finally picked up.

Also have the test done as early in the morning as you can as TSH drops during the day. I believe its highest about 4 in the morning.

Also if possible just before your period is due if a woman as I and others find things get worse then eg constipation, this is because the TSH is affected more at this time so if hypo it in theory should be higher.

Good luck with getting a diagnosis.

[frecklyminx in reply to Starfish123]

I have test on friday morning and I will request an antibodies test also Thank you for the advice

[Heloise in reply to frecklyminx]

freckly, from what I have read on these blog pages......there have been so many difficulties with the NHS and the doctors in it. So many, in fact, that they need to ask for referrals to an endocrinologist who specializes in hormone disorders and even then they can't rely on anything but the lowest dose of thyroxine and satisfied for the lowest ranges of their blood tests leaving them very symptomatic. It's too bad you didn't come here sooner so as to have more time to figure out your approach. Picton has given some fair warning.

Maybe you can look up the list of doctors on TUK and see if the one you are going to see is on it. Perhaps everything will go right for you but it would be a minority finding I'm afraid.