Hypothyroidism - how is it tested for?

iVillage Member
Registered: 04-23-2004
Hypothyroidism - how is it tested for?
1
Fri, 09-24-2004 - 5:24pm
Hi there,

I have grave's disease and hyperthyroidism and currently undergoing treatment for it. My boyfriend,however, thinks he is on the opposite spectrum - hypothyroidism. What a cute couple! :) He's one of these macho guys that hates going to see doctors and my diagnosis in the last six months hasn't helped that any. My condition is pretty extensive - they are going to remove all of my thyroid in the next month or so after my blood comes out more "regulated."

He complains about not having energy and being tired all of the time. He's gained some weight in the last year to year and a half - possibly 20 pounds or more. You know he's one of these guys too macho to go to the doctor to find out yet complains to me about how fat he is getting. It's a hard spot for me to be in (what am I supposed to say and not hurt his feelings)- I just tell him to go get a simple blood thyroid test run and see if that's part of it before he starts some major diet/exercise regime. What's involved prior to getting diagnosed with hypothyroidism? Is it as simple as running the blood tests for T3, T4, and PSH levels and then doctor plays with med levels? Or...do you have to go through the thyroid iodine 24 hour uptake test prior to treatment? I had to have the iodine 24 hour uptake, then an ultrasound (found a nodule), then a biopsy for 2 nodules, and now (eventually) thyroidectomy. I'm going to talk to my endocrinologist for him at my next appointment and give him my doctor's card (if doctor does specialize in treatment of hypos as well).

Thanks for you help,

Jess

iVillage Member
Registered: 09-11-2004
Fri, 09-24-2004 - 5:45pm
Hi

This is Babs, you are a cute couple!! A simple blood test is all that he needs to confirm your suspicions that he is a hypo. He has a lot of the symptoms. More than likely your Endo will run the same tests on him that he did on you, the ultrasound and the 24 hour test as well! Yes he does treat both types. Hang in there is does get better!! Let us know how you make out!

Babs