TSH levels 2.88 and symptoms of hypothyroidism

[Pudden]

I have my thyroid function checked annually as there is a family history of thyroid disease. My last reading was 2.88 and according to Doc and internet would seem to fall into 'normal' catagory in UK. In USA is seems that they would regard this as a problem and prescribe low dosage of thyroxine.

My rpobelms is though I am having symptoms I feel the cold terribly, am constipated, feel in a mental fog, have v. heavy periods and feel exhausted- no sex drive AT ALL. The practise however won't prescribe as I fall into 'normal' levels. No other surgery I can register with.

What can i do to make myself feel better and improve (lower)my TSH levels

You can get treated privately,and prescribed natural thyroxine. Or you can go back and get re-tested as TSH levels vary.I once read that they are at their highest early in the morning so try and get the first bloodtest of the day.

I was in your position, so I went for a private well woman health check and was referred on to a private endocrinologist. They will send their report to your GP, and if you need thyroxine you can have it prescribed on the NHS. It cost a bit, but was worth it.

Correct - your TSH is still within the Uk's fatuous range. However, TSH is not a thyroid hormone, it is a pituitary hormone.

You could try asking your GP to test your FT4, FT3 and both TPO and TgAb antibodies. Then he will have a full picture. If, for example, you have positive antibodies, you have autoimmune thyroid disease and should be treated whatever your TSH level. If your GP won't do it, or the lab won't do it when he asks, pay a company like Genlova Diagnostics in New Malden to do it for you.

It is also sensible to ensure that you have optimum levels of B12 and folate, Vitamin D and ferritin, as low levels of any of these can interfere with your thyroid.

You are about to find out how poor the general level of understanding of thyroid issues is among British GPs.

If it's any consolation, I was collapsing in public places with a TSH of 2.25. You're right, you are hypothyroid. Lots of info on the web.

D