blood test after thyroidectomy

[aileron1]

Hi, I had a total thyroidectomy for benign large nodules on April 28, 2009.  What blood tests specifically should I have, and exactly when?  I was started on 100mcg thyroxine immediately after surgery.  My surgeon (ear nose throat specialist) told me to have my levels monitored with my GP, but he only ordered a TSH.  Is this all I need or do I also need T3 and T4?  I want to make sure I do the right thing.  We do not have any endocrinologists within an hour and a half's drive, so doing the next best thing.  Feeling fine so far.
Thanks,
Jeanne

[mario_santiago_77]

Hi Olivia,

Are you a filipino? if yes please send me over your email address thru private message. thanks.

[olivia113]

Hi,

Are you done with labtest? I had my total thyroidectomy due to hutle cell carcinoma last year of January and my endoc ordered RAI but went for second opinion to 2 best hospitals and their opinion is for me not to get RAI. I guess I should have done my bloodtest few months after my surgery. I was a little embarrased to go back to my endoc since I didnt follow what she said on taking the RAI. In short, I did not go for my bloodwork until this month which is a year after my surgery and the result is not good. Its abnormal. I have an appointment to a different Endoc thi 20th and see what she says. I think I have to go for a higher doze of my synthroid.  Im afraid for any reoccurance. Any input in this?

[Kell125]

So I had my appointment on thursday with my endo and I told you I would let you know what tests he ordered for me.  He ordered T4Free and TSH.  But he doesn't want me to test until July, which would be about 8 weeks after my thyroidectomy.  The reason for that is because he switched me from Levothyroxine 100mcg to Synthroid 100mcg.  Apparently, Levothyroxine is the generic form of Synthroid (my surgeon prescribed that for me before leaving the hospital).  My endo said that for most prescriptions there's not much difference b/w generic and brand name, but for this there is.  He did give me extra lab test order forms that I can use at anytime if  I start to feel any hyper or hypo symptoms whatsoever.  

[ClaireD]

Hi Jeanne

I had a total thyroidectomy on the 29th April and have also been prescribed 100mcg of levothyroxine.  I was advised by my surgeon to wait 5 weeks before I have a blood test so that the tablets have time to get into my system.  Have to say I am still feeling lethargic.  I only have to walk around the block or do a bit of ironing and I feel shattered.  Apparently it can take up to 5 weeks for the tablets to get to work.  I have received my blood test form which has the following on it to be checked:  Calcium and TFT.  No idea how indepth the TFT check is though.

[Kell125]

Hi Jeanne,

I too had a total thyroidectomy on the 28th of April.  I am also taking 100mcg of synthroid and I'll be seeing my endo on thursday.  I can let you know if he orders any tests other than the TSH.  I am also happy to say that I am feeling great.  I feel no different than before the surgery.  I am wondering if and when any of those dreaded symptoms of having thyroid removde will start to appear.