TSH Normal low Ft4

[Jlj430]

I have been suffering with symptoms of fatigue, cold hands and feet, weight gain (12lbs) over last 3 months,  heavy menstrual cycles, dry skin, decreased libido, and inability to concentrate.  I had my labs done and my TSH was at 2.60.  It actually decreased last year it was 3.21.  My FT4 was done and was .67 (normal .77-1.61) On a side note my LDL was also high at 113 (normal 0-99)  Are these labs be indicative of hypothyroid?  

[Super_sally888]

Hi,

yes your FT4 is indicative of hypothyroid.  i would like to see your FT3 tested also and what level it is at. Also would like to see your antibodies tested.  In many people a TSH of < 2 is optimal.  Also high TSH often lags behind the low FT4.  High cholesterol levels can also be associated with hypothyroid.

I think you would benefit from thyroid meds.  i hope your doctor is considering these for you.  Ideally your FT3 and FT4 should be in the upper half of the reference range, and adjusted on the basis of how you feel.

Let us know how you go.

If your doctor is not sold on the idea of giving you meds (some docs are ruled by TSH, but others are not and will adjust based on FT3 and FT4), why don't you ask for a 'trial' of thyroid meds to see if it helps your symptoms....

[gimel]

More importantly than the lab test results, your symptoms are indicative of hypothyroidism.  This is supported by the FT4 result being below the low limit of its very broad reference range.  Along with FT3, these are the most important indicators of thyroid status.  TSH is a pituitary hormone that is affected by many variables, including the time of day when blood is drawn.  At the first opportunity, suggest that you also have FT3 tested and you might want to have thyroid antibodies tested also.

FT3 is four times as potent as FT4, and FT3 correlates best with hypothyroidism, so it is very useful in determining med dosage.  In my opinion, the very best way to treat a thyroid patient is to test and adjust FT3 and FT4 levels with whatever meds are required to alleviate symptoms.  Treatment should be all about relieving symptoms.  Frequently this will require that the FT3 level is adjusted into the upper part of its range, and FT4 to at least the midpoint of its range.

[Jlj430]

Thank you. for your response.  I am assuming my doctor feels these labs are normal, she said she would call if they were abnormal.  I never received a call and had to pick up a copy of the labs myself.  She tried to diagnose me with depression.  I know I am not depressed, I have every intention and motivation to do things, I just physically do not have the energy!!  I am going to ask her for a referral for a 2nd opinion if I can not get her to do the FT3 testing.

[gimel]

Good luck with your doctor.  Don't be reluctant to stand up for what you need.  You are the customer.  Please let us know how things progress.