PS .
To test your Endo's "Up to date" knowledge---I'd ask him or her what they consider "Normal" TSH---if they give you a number outside the *NEW* standards...RUN AWAY!!! (means' they've probably not picked up a trade journal in years).
This debate has been going on for years....and even among the AACE - American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists--their "Governing Body"---Professional Affiliation----they can't come to a consensus amongst themselves....
However the last "vote"---they said if someone presents with Symptoms, dig deeper---and *SOME* Endo's argue that a TSH of 2.0 should be considered "Normal".
Also, make SURE your Endo pulls more than just a TSH...You need TSH, FREE T-3 and Free T-4 to get an accurate picture......
Again, GOOD LUCK--and PLEASE DO NOT GIVE UP!!!! (it took me 9 years and I'm finally getting some help).
gjgj,
I'm *NOT* a Doctor, however have suffered from Thyroid problems fr years.
I'd find another Endo, to get a 2nd opinion.
My first Endo did the *EXACT* same thing (took a wait and see approach)---made me uncomfortable since I was "presenting" with symptoms----what you explain, you are "Presenting with Symptoms".
Ironically, how I found my Doctor. I asked my Pharmacist who they see a lot from. (medications, etc.). I also asked a family friend (who is a full time nurse)---Ironically, she gave me me *THE EXACT* same name the Pharmacist did. .
So, if you already have a pharmacist, ask them for an Endo Referral.
It worked for me!
GOOD LUCK TO YOU (and the only word's of wisdom I have is DON'T "sit and wait".
While it's TRUE your thyroid can fluctuate (thus the wait).
FYI even the *NEW* Standards the AACE have agreed upon are levels between 3.0-5.0(sadly this was changed in 2007 and even LABS have not upgraded their ranges yet...*SIGH*...the Sad state of affairs you will find in the Endo community).
See Articles:
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First ARticle: This is talking about Endo's Arguing over "What's the Ref Range"
http://thyroid.about.com/od/gettestedanddiagnosed/a/tshtestwars.htm
The TSH Reference Range Wars: What's "Normal?", Who is Wrong, Who is Right...
And What Does It All Mean For You and Your Health? Updated: June 19, 2006
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FINALLY!!!!!!!!!!!
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AACE Changes Position re: TSH Normal Range
http://thyroid.about.com/cs/testsforthyroid/a/aace.htm
TSH level between 3.0 and 5.0 uU/ml should be considered suspect, Says AACE
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Would repeat in 6 weeks (not months) if still high and with these symptoms, then consider a trial of levothyroxine. If TSH still high, would check antibodies to see if this is hashimoto's.