My TSH is 8.8, T3 and T4 are normal. But I have high ldl - 201. What should I do?

[J0889]

I am 26 yrs old, preparing for competitive exams which caused stress, hence high TSH and Cholesterol. What should I do? I don't want to be on thyroxine and cholesterol meds forever

[Super_sally888]

Best if you can get Ft3 and Ft4 done, as these tell you the free and available thyroid hormone.

However, looking at your T3 and T4 results, they are low in the range and likely indicative that you also have low available thyroid hormone.  All these results indicate that you are hypothyroid.

While stress management and clean eating will help your body cope, it is very likely that you will continue to need thyroid medications.   If your thyroid is properly regulated, it is likely that your cholesterol levels will improve.

[J0889]

Thanks for your help :)

[Super_sally888]

Please also get glucose tests done.  These should include fasting glucose and Hba1c (average blood sugar for the past 3 months).  High glucose levels can also affect cholesterol levels (as can low thyroid levels - hypothyroid).

Would recommend you minimize processed carbs as well and make sure you eat plenty of fresh vegetables and unprocessed foods.

[J0889]

Glucose and hbA1c are normal, within prescribed limits. But Vitamin D is quite low -14.3 and Iron - 55.4(reference range is 60-180)

[Barb135]

Stress doesn't cause high TSH or cholesterol, hypothyroidism does. What are your actual FT3 and FT4 results with reference ranges, please?

Once we see those e can better assess your situation give you better advice.

[J0889]

Total T3 - 87 ( reference range 60-200)
Total T4 - 6.6 (ref range 4.5-12.0)

[J0889]

FT3 and FT4 tests not done, should I get them tested as well?