Should I take thyroid medication?
My level is .67 ( Dr. said norm is .7 - 1.48) but my TSH is 6.94. All women in my family older than me, take synthroid, and a couple who are younger ( I am 38). .67 is not very far from .70, but the family history says I should take it.
User Comments
- Your doctor needs to be the one to make that call. S/He will take into account your family history. It can be preventive.
- Thank you
- The doctor should determine whether you take it or not.
- That TSH level should be evaluated by an endocrinologist. They can tell you for sure whether or not you should be on thyroid medication.
- If your TSH is 6.94, you should be on mdication. For most, you want the morning TSH to be around 1.0. I'm not sure where you are getting the .67, when you state the TSH is 6.94. If you are referring to the free t4, its on the low side. It should be above 1.3.
Even if you aren't showing hypothyroid symptoms, things may be going on in your body like increased cholesterol levels and heart problems. It's important if you need thyroid meds, to be on them. Larn as much as you can about the condition, as this is how to get the best care. Link below
- http://www.endocrineweb.com/hypo1.html...
- Ensure you discuss this with your doctor or an endocrinologist. Any one who gives you the go ahead and is not a medical practitioner is endangering your health. I take levothyroxin and have since I was 39. It certainly has been a plus for me as my thyroid quit working when I was 23. I only let the doctors tell me what is going on with my thyroid, everything else is hearsay and usually incorrect.
- Do you have symptoms of hypothyroidism ? Your TSH level indicates you are.
If you have symptoms then discuss with your doctor about taking synthroid.
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
Fatigue
Weakness
Weight gain or increased difficulty losing weight
Coarse, dry hair
Dry, rough pale skin
Hair loss
Cold intolerance (can't tolerate the cold like those around you)
Muscle cramps and frequent muscle aches
Constipation
Depression
Irritability
Memory loss
Abnormal menstrual cycles
Decreased libido
- Just to say I did phone the Dr. when my results came in (he is on vacation), but I received a "form letter", saying I should consider taking a thyroid supplement.