Is TSH of 3.6 normal?

[nikkim73]

Hi, I've been feeling tired and low for a couple of months now along with 1 stone weight gain for no apparent reason and my hair is breaking. I have had my TSH levels done and the result is 3.6. I have been tested in the past 3 times and my TSH level have always been 1.9 before. The lab that tested my bloods shows normal range between 0.5-5.0. I do know people with an hypothyroidism and they are maintained at 1.6 ish?? I go to see my doctor on monday about results, not sure what he will do considering my previous results as this is high for me. should i ask for t3 and t4 tests?


This discussion is related to What are normal T4,T3 and TSH levels.

[laura1967]

The new lab ranges  for TSH are:  .30-3.0. Yes you should also have a Free T4 adn Free T3 tests done so you can get a complete look. Make sure they are frees and not outdated total tests.

[estrelinha]

Also ask for thyroid antibodies (TPO and anti-Tg).

[Beccaroo]

I think 3.6 is too high for me, mine is .91 as of right now and thats where I prefer it to be. I think anything aboe 3.0 is just a little too high. Might want to discuss it further with an endorinologist.

[Totie]

Ask your doctor if he/she can get your TSH level to a 1.0, tell them that is where you feel better. Tell them it could not hurt to try a low dosage of medication to see if your symtoms improve after six weeks.

It would not hurt to ask.

[Rite760]

Even though a lot of the ranges do still say 0.5 to 4.5 or thereabouts. When my TSH has been 3.8 and 4.6 I've felt awful. But a lot of the docs still use the original references. You need to push to get something done and be heard.

[blksapphire]

On my lastest labs, my tsh finally came down to 2.933 and I still feel awful.   I haven't made it to 1.0 yet and I have been on meds for a year.  My synthroid was increased to 112.  

I really think that most endo's go by the old books.  the ones they read while still in college.  they need to get with the times and go by how we the patient feels.

[nikkim73]

Thank you all for your advice, I know that I don't feel right but hate going in to the doctor telling him that he should do more. I'm in the UK and our ranges are still the old ones, not sure why?