TSH w/ Reflex to FT4

[garzap55]

My results were .76.  I had been taking levelthyroxitine  115 and was lowered to 112.  Now Im  having headaches.  Should I ask my doctor to increase it back to 115?

[gimel]

That could be the case, although that was a small reduction.  I am not sure why your doctor would be reducing your dosage anyway.  I expect that he is following the usual standard of care and
only paying attention to TSH, and not the actual thyroid hormones, which is the wrong way to treat a hypothyroid patient.  

First, hypothyroidism should be defined as insufficient metabolic effects in tissue throughout the body due to inadequate supply of, or response to, the thyroid hormones.  So diagnosis should include an evaluation for symptoms typical of hypothyroidism, along with tests for Free T4 and Free T3.  Treatment should be to raise your Free T4 and Free T3 levels as needed to relieve symptoms, without regard for TSH. level.

Second were you evaluated for symptoms?  Also have you been tested for Free T4 an Free T3?  Also good to test for Vitamin D, B12 and ferritin.  

So please review the following list of typical symptoms and tell us which ones you have currently.  

Fatigue and sluggishness
Increased sensitivity to cold
Increased sleepiness
Dry skin     (need to use skin creme)
Constipation    (need to use laxative or fiber)
Muscle weakness
Muscle aches, tenderness and stiffness
Joint pain and stiffness
Irregular or excessive menstrual bleeding
Depression
Problems with memory or concentration
Swelling of the thyroid (goiter)
A puffy face
Brittle nails
Hair loss
Enlargement of the tongue