Baffled

[hyporunner]

I have been taking levothyroxine for 8 weeks.  I just got the results from my TSH and it is 4.97. I was at 5.0 This was discovered as a routine physical blood test because of my age.  I felt fine except that I had a lump in my throat sensation.  Since taking the drug, I have gained weight and am tired.  More analysis was done this time and the results were Total T3 - 88.8 and T3 Free - 3.4.  No second T-4 was done because it was considered normal in the original test.  
Since beginning the drug, I have much drier skin, am exhausted by 7pm and am having difficulty running my usual 25 miles/week.  My eyes feel dry.  Ideas to take to my doctor? Help.

[Totie]

To be honest, not much of a change from 5.0 to 4.97 -  It looks like you need your medication increased. Normal TSH range is .3-3.0 (the lab range).

You seem to be hypo. Would suggest to your doctor to increase your medication dosage, THEN get your TSH tested again, and T3/T4 if possible.

[laura1967]

The three most important tests for thyroid: TSH, Free T4 and Free T3.  Total T3 is an outdated test that is no longer used. The Free's are more important than the TSH.
Yes you are still hypo and need more meds.