Questionable Labs

[TiffanyN]

I recently had a wellness screening where I work and one of the tests that was done was a TSH level. It came back as 5.77. All my other results (CBC, BMP, & Lipid Panel) were normal. I had a routine checkup at my docotors office scheduled for about 10 days later. While I was there my doctor mentioned my thyroid felt enlarged. I talked with her about the TSH level & she had another one checked. They gave me the results via the mail & the level was 2.8. When I called the office to talk to them about why there was such a difference in only about 10 days time the nurse told me that I must have been ill with a virus at the time the first test was drawn and that a viral illness can make your TSH level higher. I was feeling fine when the first test was drawn but I was sick when I had the second test drawn. I am a nurse myself & I had never heard that an asymptomatic viral infection could create a increased TSH level. I have been very tired lately & have gained 7 pounds (even though I have been working out about 3-4 times per week). Is it normal to have your TSH level fluctuate like that & can a viral illness make a level increased? Should I have any other tests done or just not worry about it?

[stella5349]

Yes it can along with many other things - not to get personal - but if you are cycling or ovulating your TSH can change in range dramatically. Not to mention cold-flu virues infections and everything else. pregnancy is a biggy too.

[AR-10]

I'd wait about a month and then have the TSH run again, and Free T4.

TSH can fluxuate for various reasons, but it would be nice to see the next test come back low normal TSH and normal Free T4.