At my last check-up I forgot to ask about my Thyroid. But, the Lab info is online and while I was checking on my next scheduled appointment I notice my TSH was 3.63.

Is this an OK level?

Thanks

Here is a link that explains thyroid tests and what range the results shold be.

http://thyroid.about.com/library/howto/htthyroid-test.htm

Is this checked thru a normal blood test or do you need to specifically ask for it?

Christine,
I don't have to ask, it is one of the routine tests added as part of my annual physical after having RT.

The baseline was done at the Cancer Center, and I don't have online access to anything done at the Cancer Center, but the physicals are done by my PCP and I can access that patient record.

The Doctors can access both databases.

Thanks for the link

Don B

While Christine's link is otherwise excellent, I disagree with its final advice to just go with the lab references (which remain with a 4.5 or 5 as acceptable) even though most endocrinologists who went to medical school in the 21st century will tell you that your TSH level should not be above 3.

IMO the best test is what your baseline TSH was before cancer, if you were not having any problems then. As I have posted repeatedly, my pre cancer TSH was 1.6 yet my CCC doctors thought a "new normal" of over 4 was fine since the lab values say so. Under cross examination, they reluctantly admitted that they had zero independent medical reasons to say that, just blind faith in the lab values.

Bottom line, I'm no longer cold nor fatigued since taking the thyroid pills and returning my TSH level to under 2 and very close to my pre cancer level.

I know what a diligent researcher you are and I think you'll find it quite interesting how the labs use 20th century values still despite 21st century medical knowledge to the contrary. I blame it on advice from corporate lawyers on fear of lawsuits or liabilities if they change now to the correct values

Charm,
I must admit that I haven't researched TSH levels at all.

I looked into the Lab data and it indicated an acceptable range of .34 - 4.82.

I will bring it up with my RO on my next appointment in October.
Thanks

Thank you Charm for the correction and extra info. You are proof that the numbers for test results are not always black and white.

Funny this came up. My bloodwork just uncovered abnormal counts and my PCP called in a prescription immediately (?). I see her in about 10 days and see my Surgeon (Head of my Cancer Team) in about a Month so I'll get some insight into what they're thoughts are. It's funny though I have experienced some of the symptoms described in the links above. Thanks all for the discussion.
Steve

I agree with Charm. My tsh levels are technically within normal limits however not in "MY" normal. Prior to rads it was 0.82 and my last level was 5.34, so within my CCC normal range but clearly not what I was use to. I'm almost finished with my first month of synthroid but think I need a higher dose as I can only tell a very slight change.

Try to find out what your pre levels were and discuss it with your docs. Good luck.