Thank you for your response. My TSH level was around 1.7 (normal) so that appeared to be fine.
My lab's reference range for serum calcium was XX (I don't remember the low number) to 10.2 and for carbon dioxide was 22 to XX (I don't remember the high number). Since I was right on the ends of the spectrum on those two and knowing that different labs use different reference ranges is part of why I wasn't sure if these levels were really "normal".
I hate not knowing what is wrong, but knowing that something isn't right. I don't anticipate any serious problems, but if there is damage being done that could be prevented as a result of a diagnosis and proper treatment, I don't want to waste any time finding out. I think I am going to work on finding another physician for care though, just because I don't like feeling like I'm second-guessing a trained professional, which is what I've been doing with this doctor as a result of his age and finding that I do have symptoms but not getting any explanation. In the scheme of things, it's only been four months since I've been seeing him. I don't know if things are truly getting worse (headaches, graying hair, fatigue, shorter/lighter periods) or if I'm just noticing them more now.
Anyway - thank you for your time in providing me some additional information on my labs graveslady, it is very appreciated.
LOL, the Internist that diagnosed and treated my thyroid was much younger than me also. But he was very thorough. He doesn't practice here anymore.
Do you happen to know what your TSH result and Labs reference range?
Your doctor might be doing the cascade method, in which most doctors do, unless they have reason for suspect, where they will do the full thyroid panel.
Physically checking your thyroid (neck) and TSH is enough to tell whether you are hypothyroid, hyperthyroid and something wrong with thyroid like nodule/goiter, or swollen. If doctor suspects hyperthyroid then FT-4 along with TSH. Then they work from there if other test are warranted. FTs if warranted, will tell if you are autoimmune and other thyroid or health conditions. If autoimmune then doctor will do antibodies to confirm.
Serum calcium is usually measured to screen for or monitor bone diseases or calcium-regulation disorders (diseases of the parathyroid gland or kidneys). Normal values range from 8.5 to 10.2 mg/dL. CO2 (carbon dioxide): 20 to 29 mmol/L. However normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. So both of yours seem to be normal , therefore doctor is not concerned, which to me is great - good news!
Other health conditions share some of the same symptoms of thyroid, and, what you have described. For one, MVP - Mitral Valve Prolapse. This is done by echocardiogram. The health condition list is just too long to post.
Good Luck and keep searching for reasons.