Sudden hyperthyroid-what tests are best?

[badger1954]

I am in the process of seeing an endocrinologist to diagnose a sudden onset of hyperthyroid.  I have the irregular heart beats, occasional high blood pressure, jitters in the hands, etc.  I am 54 yrs of age, in great health but have had a lot of stress in my life...mother's sudden death, dog's sudden death on day my mother was buried, marital separation, etc.  Could this have triggered my thyroid?   What test/s are the best to determine what's up with my system:

I123 Thyroid Uptake and Scan  OR
Thyroid Untrasound with fine needle aspiration?  

Are there any other tests that would be advisable?

My friend (RN) indicated that the I123 test was best in diagnosing....Please advise.

THANKS SO MUCH.  

[Totie]

Have the TSH done first, then go from there, do not really see any need for the other tests until hyper is confirmed by low levels of TSH.

Good luck.

[skeeterknitwit]

Thyroid symptoms also mimic other problems.  A simple TSH at a local health fair can quickly give you an idea while you're are waiting on the appt. Blood tests first! They are the least expensive and least invasive.  Mine was done in this order.
TSH, FREE T4 & FREE T3
Then the antibody tests TPOab, TRab, TGab.
Ultrasound with color dopler, 2 more ultrasounds, then I123.
I don't think the I123 scan is a preliminary test.  Mine cost $1100.