how to read my test

[dgmootry]

I would like to know how to read my test, TSH 3.248  Range 0.358 - 3.74 which is in the high range which mean low right? hypo  Free T3  3.2  Range  2.3  -  4.2  what number would be the upper third? is this number considered high or low? Free T4  0.7  Range 0.7 - 1.5 this number should be in the middle what number would that be?because this number is low does it mean my Free T4 is running hyper?. So the higher the number on these tests mean hypo right? and the lower the numbers on these tests mean hyper right? thanks just trying to understand all this.

[dgmootry]

thanks, I;'ll do that.

[goolarra]

It sounds like your dose might need a tweak.  It takes a while to find the right spot.  Let us know how your labs look on the 31st.

[dgmootry]

yes, I'm on Armour, and since my doc increased by 15mg aday, I do feel alot better, plus I divided it up during the day, which really helped, seemed like i was having to much during the first part of the day, I'll have a test 31 of this month, I still feel it might be just a bit low, I still retain a bit of water, but not like I did, I'm hoping it is just a tad bit low, my nails are still brittle, but I don't know if this is just something I'll have to get use to, thankyou for the information, my test makes more since now. thanks again

[goolarra]

TSH is the only test whose results are counterintuitive, i.e. when TSH is high, thyroid function is low (hypo) and when TSH is low, thryoid function is high (hyper).  FT3 and FT4 are logical.  The lower the FT4 and FT3, the more hypo you are and vice versa.

The rule of thumb (and remember this is just a guidline, it doesn't work for everyone) for FT4 is midrange, correct.  That would be 1.1 on your range.  3.6 would be the beginning of upper third on your range.

Your FT4 is still very low.  FT3 is getting there, though.

Are you on desiccated?  How are you feeling?  

[dgmootry]

thankyou,

[Red_Star]

In primary hypothyroidism (when the thyroid gland is affected) TSH rises because free T4 levels fall. Your labs may be in "normal" range but those numbers are in not optimal and hovering around the hypothyroid territory. Free T3 is mid range.