What are my tests indicating??

[33male]

Quick background, 33 m, 175 pounds, good physical condition.   During an ER visit due to a situation which has now been ruled to most likley be an optical migrain without the headache which caused visual distubance (aura)  As CT's and MRI were showing normal for any major problems that could have caused the episode, I thought to have my thyroid checked just by chance, since 2 family members have been treated for hypothyroidism.    My TSH came back at .03 and I was told it was low and should follow up with my Dr.  A month and a half later (present time) I had my visit with my Dr. and he ordered 3 tests, Free T4, TSH, and Antibody test.   I got my results today and have an upcoming appointment to talk to the Dr.  My results were told to me like this: TSH of less then 0.03, Free T4 of 2.1, and Antibody test showed presence of antibodies at a level greater than 950.   Yes I said 950.  Now, should I be seeing an endocrinologist to address these issues?  I realize presence of antibodies means I have an autoimmune type issue going on with my thyroid, but is this number unusually high of someone who might be having autoimmune thyroid disease??   The nurse who dictated my results over the phone didn't seem to know a whole lot.   I understand these numbers point to hyperthyroidism, which is the opposite of what afflicted my other 2 family members.   If not for reading the symtoms of hyperthyroidism I would never have thought I was experiencing it.  Yes I think a number of the symptoms could apply to me, but I just have not noticed that anything has changed or is different than what I thought was "normal" for me.   Maybe its possible my body has been dealing with this problem for a long time without my knowledge.   I also seem to always have elevated blood pressure when its checked, in what is considered that pre-hypertention stage.  I seem to consistently measure 140-150/80-90.  I dont know if this could be hyperthyroid related.   I just need to know what my results mean, specifically the level of antibodies present, and what I need to make sure my Dr does next.  And also if I should immediately ask to be referred to an endocrinologist , since I have currently only seen my general family practice doctor.   Sorry for being long-winded, thanks in advance for your advice and information

[stella5349]

I started out ,u journey as a hyperthyroid patient. Very ... very hyper. After uptake scan and a full panel of tests - I was classic "Graves"  I had all the normal symptoms of a Graves patient my pulse rate was very high and I thyroid stormed in 2003. I suppose looking back my thyroid probably would have burnt itself out - but considering the storming my endo ordered RAI to kill off the active tissue of the gland. after that - I became hypo and suspect Hashi now.

I am not seeing any endo at this time - only my MD.  An endo may be in your best interest - but they are tricking individuals. Just because your family had the opposite thyroid condition doesn't mean you were doomed to the same thing.  It only reflects a defect in family history of thyroid disease itself.

To expedite to process seeing an endo - make sure YOU have all your hard copy blood tests at your visit. Get the referral from you GP. I would suggest to have them call - not you -  to get in quicker too. Your MD sounds very good and ordered above the required tests that they normally do when a thyroid issue is suspected. He sounds like a solid doctor.

Good Luck.

[ifupleze]

I am hypothyroid and my antibodies are much higher than yours.  There is nothing you can do about that.  Your high blood pressure is a symptom of hyper.  It would be a good idea to see an endo.  Hyperthyroidism has different treatment than hypo and they might end up doing several tests that an endo is more qualified to do than your PCP.  Your PCP will probably refer you to one, anyway.