TSH Question

[JewellO]

I am a patient with Graves Disease.  I had RAI treatment in late January of this year.  In May my T4 lab results were 1.2 and my TSH was 2.5.  At that point my doctor put me on Levothroid (100 MCG).  I just received my most recent labs from 9/19/07 and the results were 1.2 T4 and 6.2 TSH.  My doctor tells me this is the normal range and exactly where she wants me and that the TSH test "lags behind".  I'm not sure what she means by this.  Does anyone know what the "normal" lab results should be post RAI?    I seem to be feeling more tired lately and my doctor tells me I should see my primary physician as my lab results indicate if I'm not feeling well that it isn't my thyroid that's causing it.  

[GravesLady]

Normal levels are your Labs reference range.  Each Lab is different, with different ranges due to different way each Lab test. They also differ from state to state and country to country.
It is suggested to get copies of every thyroid blood test with Labs reference range and you can follow your own progress.  You are entitled to them because you (and Insurance) paid for them.

Yes, TSH does lag, that is why test are done 6 to 12 weeks after each and every med. dose change. Then it is recommended to repeat test every 4 to 6 weeks after the last test before any med. dose adjustment to confirm the last test.

Lab ranges are so wide that adjustments can be made for TSH level anywhere within Labs range that you feel your best.

For me personally, TSH of 6, I would be too hypo.  But each of us are different and will not feel the same at the same levels.

If your doctor doesn't listen and hear you about your issues, finding another doctor who will, might be more beneficial for you and your thyroid health.

[GravesLady]

Treatment and meds. are not a 100% cure-all for symptoms.

Once you find the level that is best for you and levels are stable, symptoms should subside with proper length of healing time. If it doesn't then symptoms could possibly be from other health issues.

Or,

Graves' has it own symptoms much like those of hyperthyroid and Graves' is not treatable or curable, only the hyperside of Graves'.  Likewise the immune system. So Graves' patients might have lingering and continuing symptoms .


Good Luck!

[JewellO]

Thank you for your comments.  My labs reference range for TSH is 0.2 - 5.5 and the 6.2 result was flagged by the lab.  My doctor wants me to stay on the current dosage and retest in a couple of months.  I may consider a second opinion as I wonder if I would feel better if my TSH was lower.  Thanks again.

[GravesLady]

I agree with your doctor to restest in a couple of months before changing med. dose, to confirm the last levels, to eliminate any chance of Lab error or other reasons that might have interfered with levels.