thyroid

[rosar]

what does a tsh level of 1.88 mean?

[stella5349]

You can't base the TSH on much when looking at hypothyroidism.

[rosar]

I have no suspicion of being hypo I just wanna know if 1.88  means a good functioning thyroid or whatever?

[gimel]

I should have said that if you have symptoms or suspicion of being hypo, then you should go back for the testing I recommended.  I just assumed that symptoms were the reason for your question.

[gimel]

TSH is an acronym for Thyroid Stimulating Hormone.  It is a pituitary hormone that is affected by so many variables that it is inadequate to use TSH as a sole diagnostic for thyroid problems.  The so-called "normal" range for TSH was revised 8 years ago by the AACE and now it is .3 - 3.04.  So your result falls within that range, but this is not nearly enough info to determine if you have a thyroid problem or not.  

Do you have symptoms of being hypothyroid?  Symptoms are the most important indicator of thyroid problems, followed by testing for the actual, bilologically active thyroid hormones, which are free T3 and free T4 (not the same as total T3 and total T4).  FT3 is the most important test because it largely regulates metabolism and many other body functions.

If you have not been tested beyond just TSH, you should go back and request tests for FT3 and FT4.  If the doctor resists, just insist on it and don't take no for an answer.  remember that you are the customer.

If you are able to get those tests done, then get a copy of the lab report, which the doctor is required to provide upon your request, and post results and reference ranges shown on the report so that members can help interpret your status and advise further.