Question about temperature test!!!

[unkn0wn42]

Hi, im new to this forum but i have a question. I recently did the temperature test for hypothyroidism. It says that i could have hypothyroidism if my temperature is consistently below 97.6f or 36.5 Celsius. However, my symptoms say otherwise. The only reason i looked at the possibility of hypothyroidism is because of one symptom which was dry and bitter hair but no hair loss really. I definently have no weight gain and if anything I am underweight. I also looked at other symptoms and the only place i have dry skin is on my face but only when using a certain cream or something. So what is up with this temperature home test, should i go ask a doctor for a t3/t4 test or is this just nothing?
THANKS FOR YOUR HELP!!

[laura1967]

The only way to know is to have your levels checked. You should have the following done: TSH, Free T4 and Free T3.

[unkn0wn42]

Yes i know about those test however, I have heard that they have a tendency to be very inaccurate and that some doctors seem to choose the Burnes temperature test as an more accurate alternative. What i dont understand is how i could have a temp below 97.6 but have no actual symptoms of hypothyroidism. THANKS AGAIN FOR YOUR REPLY!!:)

[gimel]

The tests for FT3 and FT4 have been improved over the years and are now considered as reliable.  They are also much more important to know than other thyroid tests because FT3 and FT4 are the biologically active thyroid hormones that regulate metabolism and many other body functions.

Body temperature is a good indicator, but it is affected by many variables.  It should not be considered as a diagnostic for thyroid issues. If temperature is low, and accompanied by symptoms, it should be followed up with FT3 and FT4, along with TSH tests.  Symptoms are what's important.  If you feel that you have symptoms of hypothyroidism that you are concerned,  then I would request these tests.

[unkn0wn42]

Thank you very much for the quick reply!! I understand now that it is necessary to get tested but i do not know if i have any of the REAL symptoms of hypothyroidism. For example, i am not overweight. When i exercise, i lose weight and gain muscle. So i have no problem with the weight and again the only place that i get dry skin is on my face occasionally. I thought those were the 2 most important symptoms to look at and frankly, none of those 2 are a problem. I guess im just wondering why my temp is so low. If i see an increase in symptoms or the onset of new ones, i'll be sure to follow both of your instructions and get the required tests done! Thank you both again for your replys:)