slightly elevated TSH

[kaylita]

I am a 51 y.o. female and had a recent TSH of 5.38.My T3 uptake (34.1), T4 (8.2), and T7 index(2.8) were all in the normal range. My weight (100 lbs. at  5' 5") and cholesterol are both good. When I tried the synthroid my NP prescribed, I had almost immediate side effects of racing heartbeat, shaking hands, and loose stools. My NP said these were not side effects of the synthroid but said I could try Levoxyl instead. I would rather not take the meds and face these side effects again. Why would my T3 and T4 be normal with a slightly elevated TSH? I am recently going through menopause, could this affect TSH? Thank you!

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

There is no definite indication for treatment.  The labs suggest mild hypothyroidism, but would retest in 6-8 weeks to see if this is transient or persistent.  Even if persistent, there is no data to treat a slightly high TSH - but there is data supporting treating TSH >10.

[ollie5]

I am also anxious to see Dr. Lupo's answer.  I had a bout of hyperthryoidism at 23, which eventually resolved itself without surgery or radiation, but because of this history, I diligently checked my TSH it each and each year it was normal until I hit menopause at 51.  Once I hit menopause, my TSH soared to 6.61 (though T3 and T4 remained in normal range) and I was diagnosed with Hashimoto's.  

Is it just a big fat coincidence that the minute I hit menopause, my TSH suddenly goes haywire?