Normal TSH and High T4

[srisrilu]

Hi,

I was first tested for TSH in my 1st pregnancy. I am taking my med (levothyroxine-50mcg) from the beginning. I am currently 11 weeks pregnant with my second baby. And my new blood report show TSH (4.4) and T4 (14). What dose that mean?

Thank you in advance.

Sreelatha.

[honogal]

Hi - how do you post a question in the Ask A Dr forum?  I posted a question - but it goes to the regular forum.  Thanks for your help.

[lbedford]

If TSH is above 2.0, does that mean there is a problem

[achilles2]

I sent you a message.

[Super_sally888]

Hello,

It is really important that you increase your thyroids already.

That is important for the baby's health and yours, even considering you don't have health insurance.  

You don't necessarily need to see an endo and your regular doctor can increase your meds by 25 mcg (up to 75 mcg already).  Then you should be retested in 4 weeks.  Further increase of meds may be necessary after that.

Don't ignore this.

[srisrilu]

Dear Mr. Lupo,

Thank you very much for your previous reply. My doctor referred me to an endo specialist. But currently my husband lost his job and our health insurance is also expiring. Do I really need to go the specialist now or can I wait till we get a cobra insurance (it is going to take a month or so). So increasing my dosage necessary? Is there any kind of risk for the baby? If any, please advice me what else I can  do?

I would truly appreciate your response.

Thank you,

Sreelatha.

[srisrilu]

Thank you for your reply. I have an appointment with my Dr. tomorrow.

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

The TSH is high - would talk to your doctor about increasing your medication.  Target TSH for pregnancy is up to 2.0.
The total T4 range for pregnancy needs to be adjusted to account for increase in thyroid binding proteins (so normal is about up to 18).