thyroid levels

[stellabellarn]

My TSH is 4.97 and my free T4 is 0.9.  My doctor thinks this is in normal range.  I have horribly dry skin, weight gain of 20 # last 8 months, fatique and hair loss and feel depressed how my body seems to be falling apart.  Cholesterol level is elevated and I am sure is related to thyroid because I haven't had lifestyle changes.  What should I do? Maybe change doctors?

[mtkst13]

i would stress how horrible you feel and let them know about the new reference range.  also ask for them to run an antibody test.  if you have tpo antibodies, you should definitely start meds because you probably have hashis...the hypo will only get worst.

definitely get your levels checked soon so that you can chart your numbers.

[goolarra]

We can add your doctor to my hit list!!!

Currently accepted TSH range is 0.3-3.0, so your doctor and lab are using an obsolete range (most of them do).  4.97 is elevated and indicates hypothyroidism.  Each lab uses a different FT4 reference range.  Mine uses 0.6 to 2.0 (check yours to make sure it's the same).  Your FT4 is in the lower end of the range, and many people don't feel comfortable until they are in the upper half of the range.

Your options are 1) try to educate your doctor (good luck) or 2) get a new one.  I'm sure you'd feel much better on meds.

[Totie]

Yes, you are hypo. Get a doctor that will treat your symptoms, not the lab numbers.

The new range is .3-3.5 (TSH).

I know how miserable it is, hope you get treated..