Youngstown, OH
A 27-year-old female asked:
I had a total thyroidectomy due to cancer. my lab shows low tsh but t4 and t3 (liothyronine) levels are normal indicating correct dosage why would my tsh be low?
3 doctor answers • 9 doctors weighed in
Dr. Atul Singhanswered
Nephrology and Dialysis 30 years experience
Low TSH: Low TSH should be respected and you may need adjustment of your medication. Seeing your Endocrinologist may be needed, and they can discuss if a dose change is needed. T3, (liothyronine) T4 don't always paint the full picture and have to looked in context of your symptoms, TSH.
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Dr. Susan Wingo commented
Endocrinology 35 years experience
I respectfully disagree here. Your thyroid doctor may want your TSH to be a little low because of the thyroid cancer. Ask him/her where your TSH should be, and please don't let any other doctor change your dose without checking with your thyroid doctor.
Jun 20, 2015
Dr. Susan Wingoanswered
Endocrinology 35 years experience
May be just right: A low TSH with normal T3/T4 levels means that while these T3/4 levels may be just right for someone else, they are just a little bit higher than what nature intended for you. BUT (and this is very important) in patients who've had thyroid cancers, doctors often want the TSH a little low. Ask your thyroid doctor where your TSH should be, and don't let any other doctors adjust your thyroid pills!
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
2.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A Verified Doctor commented
A US doctor answered Learn more
Also, if at all possible stay on the same brand of thyroid hormone replacement medications and no "generic levothyroxine".
Apr 30, 2016
A Verified Doctoranswered
Endocrinology 53 years experience
TSH: TSH may be low simply because your thyroid meds are doing enough to keep the TSH at a low level.
If you are feeling OK just relax and enjoy life!
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
2.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Gurmukh Singh commented
Pathology 51 years experience
You did not give the TSH value, what you consider low may well be in the normal range.
Jun 20, 2015
Last updated May 13, 2016
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