A member asked:

I am have symptoms of low thyroid and adrenal fatigue.my total t3-66.1, cortisol-22.13, tsh&ft4-normal.dr. says no tx.should i see an endo/2nd opinion?

14 doctors weighed in across 4 answers
Dr. Su Fairchild answered

Specializes in Integrative Medicine

Yes: Actually you may be better off seeing an integrative medicine doctor. You definitely need treatment, and some important thyroid labs were not done. Adrenal support needs to be in place before or together with thyroid support.

Answered 6/29/2014

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Second opinion : If measured in ng/ml then 22.13 is above and beyond expected norm. Over-production of cortisol also causes one to feel tired. T3 (liothyronine) isn't useful in evaluating hypothyroidism except rarely. Endocrinologists look at TSH and ft4 for this.There are so many other things which could give you the symptoms you're having. If you maintain your focus on thyroid and adrenal you might be missing something else.

Answered 9/28/2016

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Dr. Quang Nguyen answered

Specializes in Endocrinology

Discuss with doctor: Agreed with dr. Lewy-weiss. You should talk to your current doctor about your concerns to hear the reason why he/she made the recommendation that he/she did. This person knows ur symptoms and history best to make this determination. In general, a mildly elevated cortisol is "transient" and most likely will be normal the next time it's checked. Don't jump to treatment without knowing the diagnosis.

Answered 2/25/2013

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Dr. Michael Rothman answered

Specializes in Internal Medicine

T4/T3 conversion NG: The elevated cortisol inhibits the hepatic transformation of T4 to t3 (liothyronine). Normally the T4 is deioidonated to T3 (liothyronine) to produce the active thyroid hormone. However the presence of high cortisol impairs this process. The TSH and ft4 are nl b/c the thyroid itself works fine, it is the liver that is not ok. Find and fix cause of cortisol elevation (various stressors) and possibly use T3 (liothyronine) supplementation.

Answered 1/15/2015

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