Got my results

[skyrocket]

My test results are:

Serum TSH 0.97 mu/L (0.2-4.0)

I'm guessing this is normal but I've been feeling so ill for so long.

What next? I seem to have a lot of Hypo symptoms but wouldn't my TSH be on the low side for that?

[shaws Administrator]

I am not sure if this link will be helpful. Before the TSH test became the way GP's make a diagnosis, people were treated according to clinical symptoms.

thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/testin...

[Jackie]

Hi It is only now due to cost that often the TSH is the only test done. it is useless on it`s own,. You need ,at the very least to have T4 and Free T3 done, then you can tell how the thyroid is.Once you know these ,if you feel unwell, it is obvious if you need treatment. If so then a lot of thee other relevant tests are needed to be sure of how you are Low B12 and Folic acid also diabetes do cause similar problems, so these are a good idea, also Ferritin/iron and definitely Vit D ( hormonal).

Do be sure to get treatment if you think you need it.

Best wishes,

Jackie

[skyrocket]

Thank you for your replies.

So Jackie I am asking for T4 and Free T3 (is it Free T4 as well?) sorry if I am being thick, all I know is I feel so ill and have done for such a long time.

I am due to have a total hysterectomy for my PMDD and if it is something as simple as a tablet for being Hypo that makes the difference then it is so important to get this right.

If I am Hypo wouldn't my TSH be higher?

[Jackie in reply to skyrocket]

Hi Sorry, just found your further post. If sending to a certain person, you need to click on "reply to this" all we do not know.. Confusing I know.

it is just T4 but Free T3 as there are other T3`s which my endo says is a waste of time ( the Lab did one by mistake once)Often but not always. My TSH has always been very low and on treatment unmeasurable. I have a lot of T3 as I take it and armour, which contains T3 and T4, I need it to be in range and well. Some GP`s will not do this as frightened ( rules) so, then you need a good endo.It is important for your OP and GA especially and of course, all hormones effect each other. make sure especially that you iron/ferritin and vit D ( hormonal) are OK. Then again post OP Your TSH is OK. If estremely low, like mine, it can be other endocrine problems, not in my case. I have Hashimotos`s ( autoimmune hypo) and enlarged thyroid + nodules. been Hypo a very long time and have a lot of other medical conditions and lots of autoimmune which happens if autoimmune, as they like to "hang around together " one of my specialists says!If you see an endo, make sure it is your choice not the GP`s, do your research before asking for a referral. They should do all, the related tests too.Most very keen on T4 and T3 treatment.

Best wishes,

Jackie

[skyrocket in reply to Jackie]

Hi Jackie

Just spoke to my GP who says they did a T4 test on me in 2011 which was normal and he was confident that my problems were not Thyroid related, eventually he said he would do a T3 test but pretty much made me feel like I'm crazy saying 'Your symptoms could be something and nothing' They aren't nothing, I feel dreadful and that isn't normal!

He wouldn't refer me to an Endo but said he would email one although did't write down any of my symptoms

I can't have my T3 blood test until mid April either because they shut at 12 today and I go away on Friday

[Jackie in reply to skyrocket]

Hi Typical! You need to see your own blood results ( for anything) and ranges,ask the receptionist, it is a routine request, they have to clear it with a GP ,but never refused. Make sure ,even if grudgingly that you the correct level of treatment you need at least 6 monthly checks of all th 3 thyroid tests.Level often vary until stab;le ( and well) Also make sure you have D tested, it is hormonal and so very important to be in range. There are other tests you need too, but start with the basic. You may have to insist on the correct treatment I am afraid, a common problem but very important!I am sure he is just going by the TSH, it is not sufficient but common due to costs etc.Usually on treatment you need to feel well and generally T4 top third of range and Free T3 near the top.

best wishes,

Jackie

[skyrocket in reply to Jackie]

Hi Jackie

I had to go private because of my PMDD and my GPs refused to do anything other than prescribe anti-depressants...after that my relationship with them is pretty much broken and i am looking into moving practices because even under the direction of my consultant they are obstructive at best.

I noticed one of the symptoms of Hypo was PMS and wondered if this was what was causing my PMDD, when I mentioned it on the phone to the Dr this morning he said that was nonsense! I said I would rather explore all possibilities before I have a very costly and drastic total hysterectomy but he just treated me, as they do at this practice, like my symptoms are all in my head

Why would my blood test results from nearly 2 years ago have anything to even do with what is going on now? He just won't budge and wouldn't do the T3 AND T4 this time just T3 and he said, if it comes back normal as he suspects it will, then we can rule out thyroid forever as my symptoms:

dry skin and hair, weight gain, tired all the time, PMS, dizziness and vertigo, aching bones, numb fingers, cold all the time, zero libido and sore throat and hoarseness could be 'something and nothing'.

I think I will have to go private because I'm not going to get anywhere with them and I think I am flagged up as a 'problem patient' on their system.

I am so sick of being treated like I'm nuts, all I want is to feel healthy again.

I emailed on here for a list of Drs near Leeds but haven't heard anything.

[Jackie in reply to skyrocket]

Hi You could be right it might be all thyroid. An endo would be sure and that is who you need to see. Would the GP refer you just to stop the agro? I would tell him he is bullying , may be right but you would like an expert opinion in this field before having surgery. There can be problems with surgery although common. I had one years ago but for different reason. You should hear my endo on the subject of depression , thyroid and doctors Unfortunately she is in Leamington Spa! Too far for you.Did you e mail [e-mail] She does not have a big list of endo`s , like all doctors you need to see one you want to not the GP`s choice. Do lots of research , look at hospital sites, then their names on private hospitals site, more info and often if you search on their name you will find their CV. Also ask other people but make sure they mean good, nice a bonus, I have found some people confuse the 2.An endo covers so many things as it is about the widest speciality I know. If you cannot find any info , phone their secretaries and fish, you cannot ask if they are nice but you can get an idea of their treatment and also I find usually if nice so are their secretaries..

I had to battle years ago and so do lots of people still.If GP will not test, I use Bluje Horizon through tukthyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/te or their main site. Dozens of different blood tests as the Lab that all the private hospitals use ( TDL ) much cheaper. If you quote tUK10 the a discount, larger for more tests. I have the e3 thyroid tests for £61 , so easy and quick. If your results bear out under treatment , take them to the GP.

I hope that gives you some ideas.

Best wishes,

jackie

[skyrocket]

Thank you so much for your advice and taking the time to reply Jackie, I really appreciate it.

I asked for a referral and GP refused saying he might email an Endo about me but that was it.

I emailed that address the other day but no reply, I think someone said she was ill.

I will check out that site you gave for tests and start googling Endos.

It might not be thyroid but if it is then I need treatment. If it;s not well then I don't know...

xxx

[Hidden in reply to skyrocket]

Yeah - poorly, sorry! Hope to be up and running again soon...

Louise

xx