TSH Aand serum free t4 on hypothyroid patient

[tuf5ty]

Im sorry if im kind iff asking same questions but i need to understand my results before seeing my gp.

Im on 175 thyroxine

Tsh 0.08

Serum free t4 23

Does this tell you anything?

Never had t4 tested before.

[helvella Administrator]

I am afraid that without a reference range for that Free T4, it is impossible to say very much. Certainly it is not low. But it could be at (or nearly at) top of range or significantly over the top of the range.

TSH 0.08 suggests that you have adequate levels but your doctor might think you are taking too much.

If you are feeling well, and that FT4 isn't stupidly high, then if your doctor suggests a small reduction - maybe to 150 - then maybe counter that with a suggestion that you try 150 one day, 175 the next. Try that for a few weeks and review. If he suggests a bigger cut, then I would not be very impressed at all. Sometimes a tiny tweak to a dose is all that is needed - but someone comes in and ham-fistedly makes big changes. Not good.

Rod

[tuf5ty in reply to helvella]

Rod,

It was in reased to 175 5 months ago as my tsh was 4 and i was quite unwell.

The reference on the test says 12 to 22.

My hypo symptoms got slightly better on the increase but i still feel unwell.

[helvella Administrator in reply to tuf5ty]

In which case, almost certainly say no to a reduction!

Sorry - it is difficult to keep track of everyone - have you had the usual other things checked out?

vitamin B12

folates

iron/ferritin

vitamin D

? All can have the effect of making people feel as if they are still low on thyroid hormone. And probably best to start with these and see whether testing identifies any issues.

Rod

[tuf5ty in reply to helvella]

Thanks Rod. I A

Am going to as my gp for some further tests on wednesday so will ask for those too

[shaws Administrator]

If you do not feel overactive, don't let him reduce your meds. My TSH is 0.01 and I am well and have switched from levothyroxine.

I haven't a link at present to a quote regarding doctors adjusting medication according to the TSH - which is not a good idea.

[tuf5ty]

Thanks shaws. I dont think she will reduce as she said on the phone it was all ok but i am feeling unwell.and think something needs doing. thankyou x