Should I Continue Medical Visits for Thyroid Concerns?

Do I need to continue my treatment?

In 2018, I underwent a health check-up (some values are excerpted below), and there were no specific medical concerns at that time:
- Triglycerides: 75 mg/dL
- Total Cholesterol: 216 mg/dL
- High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Cholesterol: 57 mg/dL
- Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) Cholesterol: 129 mg/dL
- Total/HDL Cholesterol Ratio: 3.79
- Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH): 0.04 mIU/L
- Free Thyroxine (FT4): 1.05 ng/dL
However, recently, I have been experiencing increasingly severe coldness in my legs during the summer.
Based on these health check values, do you think I need to seek medical attention, or would it be better to first retest these values at a medical laboratory? Additionally, are there any precautions I should take when visiting a healthcare provider?

A-Rong, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/08

Dr. Yuan Tianmin reply Breast and Thyroid

The data presented earlier is from the year 2018, and it may require further verification with current data to determine its relevance.

Reply Date: 2021/09/08

More Info

Based on your health check results from 2018, it appears that you had a significantly low Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) level of 0.04, which indicates hyperthyroidism or an overactive thyroid. Your free T4 level of 1.05 is within the normal range, but the low TSH suggests that your thyroid gland is producing too much thyroid hormone. This condition can lead to various symptoms, including increased heart rate, anxiety, weight loss, and, in some cases, temperature regulation issues such as feeling cold in your extremities.

Given your recent experience of worsening coldness in your feet during the summer, it is advisable to seek medical attention. While the cold sensation in your feet could be attributed to various factors, including circulation issues or peripheral neuropathy, it is essential to rule out any thyroid-related complications. Hyperthyroidism can sometimes lead to peripheral vascular issues, which could explain your symptoms.
Here are some steps you can take regarding your thyroid concerns:
1. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Given your previous abnormal thyroid function test results and current symptoms, it is prudent to consult an endocrinologist or your primary care physician. They can evaluate your symptoms in the context of your thyroid function and overall health.

2. Repeat Thyroid Function Tests: Before your appointment, it may be beneficial to have your thyroid function tests repeated. This includes measuring TSH, free T4, and possibly free T3 levels. These tests will provide a clearer picture of your thyroid status and help your doctor make informed decisions about your treatment.

3. Document Symptoms: When you visit your healthcare provider, be prepared to discuss all your symptoms in detail. Note when they started, their severity, and any other relevant health changes. This information can help your doctor determine if your thyroid function is contributing to your symptoms or if another underlying issue may be present.

4. Consider Other Factors: Cold extremities can also be caused by other conditions such as anemia, diabetes, or vascular issues. Your doctor may recommend additional tests to rule out these possibilities.

5. Follow-Up Care: If you are diagnosed with a thyroid disorder, follow-up care is crucial. Regular monitoring of your thyroid hormone levels and symptoms will help manage your condition effectively. Your doctor may adjust your medication or treatment plan based on your test results and symptoms.

6. Lifestyle Considerations: In addition to medical treatment, consider lifestyle changes that may help manage your symptoms. This includes maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding stress, which can exacerbate thyroid issues.

7. Be Aware of Medication Side Effects: If you are prescribed medication for thyroid issues, be aware of potential side effects and interactions with other medications. Always discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

In summary, given your previous abnormal thyroid function tests and current symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A thorough evaluation and repeat testing will help clarify your thyroid status and guide appropriate management. Don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further assistance. Your health is paramount, and proactive management is key to maintaining well-being.

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