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Suggest Treatment For Symptoms Of Hypothyroidism
Question: I am 74 yrs old woman. My TSH has never been higher than 3.0 in my life (last test in Nov 2015, TSH 1.5). But it suddenly jumped to 5.9 in XXXXXXX 2016 with Free T4 Analog 1.4 normal. Only symptom I have is dry coughing and gaining some weight. Do you think there is a strong chance I may have hypothyroidism?
Brief Answer:
probably subclinical hypothyroidism
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
it's probably a case of subclinical hypothyroidism, which means that you have a laboratory "diagnosis" without significant symptoms. Other symptoms of hypothyroidism may include fatigue, dry hair, weight gain, reduced appetite, hair loss, sensitivity to cold, reduced heart rate, slower thinking, symptoms of depression, leg swelling, etc.
I suppose you didn't have anything but the weight problem, which could also be irrelevant. Although 5.9 is not normal, it's not very high either and the endocrinologist would only suggest treatment if there are symptoms of hypothyroidism. Your weight problem requires further discussion to determine its cause and the doctor would have to search for other symptoms or signs like the ones I've mentioned above. Otherwise this is called subclinical hypothyroidism and can be left untreated. Repeat testing would be required after 6-12 months or if symptoms occur.
I hope you find my comments helpful!
You can contact me again, if you'd like any clarification or further information.
Kind Regards!
probably subclinical hypothyroidism
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
it's probably a case of subclinical hypothyroidism, which means that you have a laboratory "diagnosis" without significant symptoms. Other symptoms of hypothyroidism may include fatigue, dry hair, weight gain, reduced appetite, hair loss, sensitivity to cold, reduced heart rate, slower thinking, symptoms of depression, leg swelling, etc.
I suppose you didn't have anything but the weight problem, which could also be irrelevant. Although 5.9 is not normal, it's not very high either and the endocrinologist would only suggest treatment if there are symptoms of hypothyroidism. Your weight problem requires further discussion to determine its cause and the doctor would have to search for other symptoms or signs like the ones I've mentioned above. Otherwise this is called subclinical hypothyroidism and can be left untreated. Repeat testing would be required after 6-12 months or if symptoms occur.
I hope you find my comments helpful!
You can contact me again, if you'd like any clarification or further information.
Kind Regards!
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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