Posted By CCF CARDIO MD - DLB on November 22, 1998 at 12:58:00:
In Reply to: Hypothyroidism tests posted by Tracy on November 21, 1998 at 00:51:56:
I recently visited my doctor for symptoms which include:
intoleranceCeliac disease - sprue
Gestational diabetes
Lactose intolerance to cold, very cold
handsHand or foot spasms
Hand tremor and feet, poor
memoryMemory loss
Mental status tests,
rapidRapid shallow breathing heart beat that lasts only a few seconds 1-2 times a month, dizziness, lightheadedness, slight nausea, and the inablity to lose last 15 lb, no matter how much I exercise.
My doctor did a
TSHPituitary and tsh
Tsh test for hypothyroidism which came back as .41. I didn't notice any tests for
T3 and T4. Should this be done also? One more thing, the lab test showed very low RF titers. I don't know what that is and my doctor didn't make mention of it. Does it have any relevance?
Thank you,
Tracy
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Dear Tracy
Generally, TSH is sufficient to screen for hypothyroidism. I suspect the RF stands for rheumatoid factor, and the low titers should pose no problem to you.
I hope this has been useful. Feel free to write back with further questions. Good luck.
Information provided here is of a general nature. Specific diagnoses and treatments can only be made by your doctor. If you would like to be seen at the Cleveland Clinic, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE for an appointment with a cardiologist at Desk F15.