Confused about results and doctor's recs..help!

kay21 · 11-01-2006, 10:02 AM

Ok, so I am completely confused about my thyroid results. My TSH came back 2.09 (normal range is between 0.5-4.5) and my free T4 came back 1.1 (normal is between 0.9-1.9). He said my thyroid levels are too low and told me he wants to start me on thyroid meds. He said my TSH should be 1.5. I am confused. From what I can see, my results are normal. I have had my TSH checked 4 other times over the last year and all of my previos results ranged from 1.09-1.20. I am not sure if it was a bit higher because I was really sick and on antibiotics. Anyway, he knows I have PCOS and am already taking Metformin to help with my periods. Other than hair loss (which could also be attributed to the PCOS), I do not have any other symptoms of hypothyroid. I am occasionally tired, but am energetic most of the day. If anything, I have more symptoms related to hyperthyroid. I am reluctant to take the medication. Any thoughts???

llamaluver · 11-08-2006, 09:35 PM

It seems like your doc is being conservative and is taking your symptoms into account (tired is a big one with hypothyroid) along wiht slightly higher levels of T4. I would suggest trying the drugs (for me its synthroid), if you dont feel better, stop taking them, just make sure to stay on long enough to get another round of bloodwork. They make a really low dose of synthroid.

CelticSpirit · 11-08-2006, 10:53 PM

I totally agree with going on meds.

It doesn't matter if your TSH is in the normal range. Hair loss and occassional tiredness could very well be from your thyroid. It might be slight, but very much a possibility. You also mentioned that your previous TSH's ranged from 1.09 to 1.20. Well, 2.09 is a lot higher in thyroid world than your previous norms!

Did the doc check for the presence of antibodies? That's another key thing to look for. And, your doc should have checked your T3 levels as well. They are very important!