So, Alex's TSH is 7.2 mIU/L with a normal range being 3.5-4.5 mIU/L.

Alex thought this was bad news but I am ecstatic because it means there is something else we can do to improve his lethargy and mood (as well as everything else). I also found out today that he DID have a baseline level done and has been sitting in his primary physicians file all this time. His original level was 1.2mIU/L. I suspect the US way of measuring might be a bit different but you will get the gist from these figures.

Any input and comments gratefully received as I know there are lots of people out there who have been through this, have had their lives turned around and who might like to remind me of what else we can expect once these levels are normalised.

I am off to search "thyroid" now ...

Karen

Klo

Forget all about the measurement units or ranges. any competent endocrinologist knows that post radiation cancer patients SHOULD BE BACK AT THEIR ORIGINAL PRE CANCER LEVELS. If they are not, then it's time for thyroid medication.
I was not only extremely tired but also froze for two years, even in summer, and kept a winter coat on in air conditioned places yet I was constantly told: "Your TSH levels are normal" and I did not ask for the actual numbers or test results. Turns out however there is controversy over what is the right TSH level with labs having a 5.5 or a 4.5 as okay even though endocrinologists who went to Medical school the 21st Century conbsider 3.0 as the highest acceptable level. Before TX, I had a TSH of 1.6 and after TX it shot up to 4.3. Now that I am "on the pill", I am finally warm again. Plus my energy is back

My TSH level went down to 3.04 on 25 mcg ,2.17 on 50 mcg and now 1.73 on 75 mcg. Now it's 1.48 since I switched to taking it at night (but that only works if you have an empty stomach and no night time snacks)

It really does make a difference.
Keep the Faith
Charm

Thanks Charm- I remember a thread discussing night time administration a few months back. What really pisses me off is that I brought this up with the RO back in FEB and was told that levels are usually done 9-12 months after treatment. Well 12 months came and went, and nobody even mentioned TSH so I took it upon myself (as usual)to get it sorted. Thanks once again to OCF for alerting me. I am really over the RO who is only concerned with checking to see Alex's throat is clear of cancer and seems unconcerned with managing ANYTHING to do with side effects. He at least he had the good grace to admit that ROs do the destroying and others have the role of rebuilding. This is all very well, but he fails to elucidate WHO can help and WHAT issues to look out for. What non-medical person connects a side effect such as temperature intolerance with their radiation treatment unless they are told?

I detest that patients put their doctors on pedestals and step blindly into the abyss not even realising their path could be so much easier. And those doctors who refuse to think beyond their own discipline to solve the problems associated with treatment. What is the point of a team based approach if the team isn't consulted?

Sorry a bit of a rant here but I am SICK TO DEATH of following behind the doctors, fixing their oversights and questioning their thinking.

I finally had mine checked about 7 months ago because I like Charm was always freezing plus I had no energy. I checked with my PCP and in May 2009 before the cancer diagnosis, my level was 3.92. Finally got a blood test about 4 months ago to check the level. It was 36.65! Yikes! They are still "tweaking" the dosage but it's now down to 9.10. Another blood test in October! At least I'm not cold anymore!

My thyroid crapped out in month 4 post Tx.

How about energy? Did normalising TSH levels help in a noticeable way and how soon? Alex still struggles to stay focused although anti-depressants and the warmer weather has had some positive effects.

I think energy levels and depression go hand in hand- I think once the meds kick in he may start to come out of his funk and I agree klo seriously some Drs are amazing - some downright suck. I was the one who told my MO I wanted a tsh baseline prior to rads etc... And she set it up! No one even suggested it! Much like the physio, acupuncture or massage all of which has helped dramatically reduce my post treatment issues. Also I know depression is related to a chemical imbalance - but unless he had a history of depression, or radiation messed with his levels, ( possible) I would lean towards thyroid issues (maybe combined with some of the emotional trauma of having cancer of course) seriously I've seen and known people who's thyroid's are out of whack and it can be devastating. Good luck battling the medical establishment! Hugs!