New test results...

[Mom2four85]

I got my new labs back and my TSH is actually alot better than it was in 2009 [4.91] even though I still have symptoms and not on any meds.  Was dx & treated back in 1998 - 2000, new primary said you dont need meds and no script.

3/11/2011 Labs
TSH 4.28 [normal range 0.40 - 4.50]
T4 Free  1.0 [normal range 0.8 - 1.8]
T3 Free 108 [normal 76 - 181]

My dr is very hesitant to put me back on synthroid because she thinks it may cause AFib and I have enough arrhythmia problems to deal with I don't need that.  

She doesn't think it's the reason for my weight gain ugh now I just get the blame for A. not eating right B.being lazy C.not really caring - I have NO energy whatsoever even to do the things I want to do or enjoy; fatigue is constant as well as a long list of other symptoms.

any comments or suggestions?

[Mom2four85]

thank you, I thought I had read about the FT3&4 being in mid range and obviously my T4 is not, she didn't ask about my symptoms I think because I have SO many other things going on.  She will redo my tests in 3 months, but if I'm still the same she will treat me either way.

Does anyone else have VT episodes and thyroid problems? I am so afraid of taking any med that it may cause my heart to mess up since I have malignant arrhythmia's and no known cause.

I'm near Tampa Florida and would appreciate any info on finding a good thyroid doctor or what type of dr to go to...Endocrinologist?

[gimel]

Even though they are within the so-called "normal" ranges, all three of your test results are consistent with having hypo symptoms.  Over 8 years ago the AACE recommended that the range should be changed to .3 - 3.0.  Unfortunately many labs and doctors have not changed.

Also, TSH is a pituitary hormone that is affected by so many variables that it is inadequate as a diagnostic.  At best TSH should be considered as an indicator, to be considered along with more important indicators such as symptoms, and also levels of the biologically active thyroid hormones, free T3 and free T4.  FT3 is the most important of your tests because FT3 largely regulates metabolism and many other body functions.  Studies have also shown that FT3 correlated best with hypo symptoms, while FT4 and TSH did not correlate.

Even though your FT3 and FT4 are within the "normal" ranges, the ranges are too broad.  Just having results fall within the low limit doesn't assure that all is okay for you.  Many of our members report that symptom relief for them required that FT3 was adjusted into the upper part of its range and FT4 adjusted to at least midpoint of its range.  Symptom relief should be all important, not test results.  The main value of test results is diagnostic, and also to monitor changes as meds are increased as necessary to relieve symptoms.  

A good thyroid doctor will treat a patient clinically by testing and adjusting FT3 and FT4 as necessary to relieve symptoms, without being constrained by resultant TSH levels.  If your doctor is unwilling to treat you in this manner, then you are going to have to find one that will do so.

For assurance of this, please read this link, written by a good thyroid doctor, to send to patients he is consulting with, that live some distance away.  the letter is sent to the PCP of the patient, to help guide treatment.  Note the clinical approach.

http://hormonerestoration.com/files/ThyroidPMD.pdf

Finding a good thyroid doctor is not real easy.  If you tell us your location, perhaps a member could provide a recommendation.