Do I need to take hormones?

[MaribelV]

HI
I need a second opinion. Doc says to wait and see and test again in a few months but I want to make sure she is right.
Blood tests:
Anti-TPO =OVER 2000 U/ml  (reference range less than 100U/ml)
FT3 RIA =8.28 pmol/L            (   "           "   4.2 - 12.0 pmol/L)
FT4 RIA = 14.44                    (   "           "   8.8 - 33.0 pmol/L)
TSH IRMA  = 1.62 ulU/ml       (   "           "   0.27 - 3.75 ulu/ml)

[Super_sally888]

Hi,

When antibodies are this high, I understand that the correct approach would be to 'support' the thyroid with a low dose of thyroid meds.  As the antibodies are in the process of destroying your thyroid you will need to be monitored regularly (probably every 3 - 6 months), and meds adjusted.

However, some doctors would also take a wait and see approach in this situation.  Do you have hypo symptoms?

[TamraW]

Your lab ranges are way different than mine. I must politely disagree with the above comments by 6hashi that your levels are fine. I did some math and your FT4 is almost in the bottom 1/4 of the range. You have a 24.2 spread between 8.8 and 32.  With a level of 14.44, you are almost at the bottom 1/4 of the range.

I ran my own numbers, comparing them to your scale. My last FT4 was 1.2, which is  2/5 of my range. I still feel hypo. My endo said that Hashis usually don't feel well unless we are in the upper portion of the ranges. He also said that 'normal' TSH really should be 1.1, but he is willing to push my TSH lower until my hypo symptoms are gone. Your TSH, FT4, and even FT3 have room to budge, so  I URGE you to get a second opinion, especially if you have hypo symptoms.

:) Tamra

[TamraW]

Read the below article. Studies show that treating the thyroid, even when TSH is 'normal' can reduce antibodies and prevent some symptoms.

Is this doc waiting for you to gain 20 pounds and for your hair to fall out?

http://thyroid.about.com/od/hypothyroidismhashimotos/a/preventative.htm

Your FT4 is heading toward the low end. TSH isn't that high, but it is a pituitary hormone and doesn't paint the full thyroid picture. Your antibodies are high.

How do you feel? Tired, constipated, cranky, depressed, dry skin, pain in neck, joints? If you have ANY hypo symptoms, then  WHY NOT get hormone treatment?

:) Tamra

[6hashi]

You have positive antibodies however tsh ft3 and ft4 are quite fine !
maybe she is right , unless you have symptoms .