Thyroid testing: How to get 100% accurate results (how and when to test your thyroid)

This is how to get 100% accurate thyroid lab tests on your next set of thyroid lab tests. It's very easy to mess these steps up which cause INACCURATE thyroid lab tests during thyroid testing.
Getting accurate thyroid lab tests is incredibly important for thyroid patients. And what you may not realize is that there are a lot of rules which should be followed if you want to get accurate thyroid lab test results.
Why would you care? Well, for starters, if you don't get accurate results then your treatment will be off. Why do you think so many thyroid patients continue to suffer from hypothyroid symptoms despite having normal thyroid lab tests?
Part of this problem is simply due to the fact that they are getting inaccurate tests which lead them down the wrong path.
What's the solution? To ensure that you are following thyroid lab testing best practices so you can ensure that your lab tests are ACCURATE.
Before you get your thyroid labs tested you should ensure that you are following these guidelines:
#1. Get the full thyroid lab panel.
- The full set of thyroid lab tests includes TSH, free T3, free T4, reverse T3, thyroid antibodies, SHBG, and cortisol.
These tests should be ordered at least the first time you get your labs tested (but are not always required on each subsequent lab test).
#2. Check your labs at 8:00am.
- Your thyroid function fluctuates throughout the day and reaches its peak first thing in the morning. You want to test during this time to see how well it is working.
#3. Check your thyroid lab tests in the fasted state.
- Consuming food can impact your metabolism and therefore your thyroid. You also want to check other lab tests at the same time and they require a fasted state.
#4. Check your labs BEFORE taking your thyroid medication.
- You want to check your thyroid lab tests around 23-24 hours AFTER you take your thyroid medication.
#5. Don't test your thyroid on days 10-20 of your menstrual cycle.
These are days in which your progesterone is high which can impact your thyroid lab test results.
#6. Avoid taking Biotin PRIOR to your lab tests.
- Biotin can interfere with the thyroid lab testing assay and make your lab tests less accurate and make you look more hyperthyroid.
#7. Don't recheck sooner than every 6 weeks.
- If you are checking your lab tests sooner than 6 weeks you are not allowing enough time for your body to reach equilibrium.
Download my free thyroid resources here (including hypothyroid symptoms checklist, the complete list of thyroid lab tests + optimal ranges, foods you should avoid if you have thyroid disease, and more): www.restartmed.com/start-here/
Recommended thyroid supplements to enhance thyroid function:
- Supplements that everyone with hypothyroidism needs: bit.ly/3tekPej
- Supplement bundle to help reverse Hashimoto's: bit.ly/3gSY9eJ
- Supplements for those without a thyroid and for those after RAI: bit.ly/3tb36nZ
- Supplements for active hyperthyroidism: bit.ly/3t70yHo
See ALL of my specialized supplements including protein powders, thyroid supplements, and weight loss products here:
www.restartmed.com/shop/
Want more from my blog? I have more than 400+ well-researched blog posts on thyroid management, hormone balancing, weight loss, and more. See all blog posts here:
www.restartmed.com/blog/
Prefer to listen via podcast? Download all of my podcast episodes here: apple.co/3kNYTCS
Disclaimer:
Dr. Westin Childs received his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic medicine in 2013. His use of “doctor” or “Dr.” in relation to himself solely refers to that degree. Dr. Childs is no longer practicing medicine and does not hold an active medical license so he can focus on helping people through videos, blog posts, research, and supplement formulation. To read more about why he is no longer licensed please see this page: www.restartmed.com/what-happe...
This video is for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. It should not be used to self-diagnose and it is not a substitute for a medical exam, treatment, diagnosis, prescription, or recommendation. It does not create a doctor-patient relationship between Dr. Childs and you. You should not make any changes to your medications or health regimens without first consulting a physician. If you have any questions please consult with your current primary care provider. Restart Medical LLC and Dr. Westin Childs are not liable or responsible for any advice, course of treatment, diagnosis, or any other information, services, or product you obtain through this website or video.
#thyroid #hypothyroidism #hashimoto's

[@drwestinchilds]

Hey guys! Have you been testing your thyroid correctly? Also! Don't forget to download my FREE thyroid resources here (foods to avoid if you have thyroid problems, full list of thyroid symptoms, and more): restartmed.com/start-here

[@marlonsitoprunita7436]

Just wonderful, I have been researching "what does it mean if my tsh is low?" for a while now, and I think this has helped. Have you heard people talk about - Mabammeston Bewildering Method - (just google it ) ? It is an awesome exclusive product for discovering how to say goodbye to hypothyroidism minus the headache. Ive heard some decent things about it and my buddy got great success with it.

[@gsusmakama]

This is glorious, been searching for "tsh levels for hypothyroidism symptoms" for a while now, and I think this has helped. Ever heard of - Mabammeston Bewildering Method - (do a google search ) ? It is a good one of a kind product for discovering how to say goodbye to hypothyroidism without the headache. Ive heard some awesome things about it and my partner got amazing success with it.

[@tanjasrensen3303]

How about organic sourdough bread - is that ok to consume with Hashimotos?

[@daisymae749]

Hi Dr., It’s very difficult to see the board because the ink is to faint. Please use darker ink. Thanks

[@faithvalentin1403]

I WAS CONFUSED W DAYS 1-10 OF YOUR CYCLE? SO MINE IS 7 DAYS. Day 1-10 starts AFTER my 7 day cycle? so i can test on my cycle right?

[@psalms50_5]

This video just blew my mind. I've been doing almost everything wrong. From the biotin consumption, the time i set my appointments, my cycle days.... I had no idea.

[@drwestinchilds]

Thanks for sharing!

[@jolitawebb6405]

Dr. Westin Childs hi, i’ve got a question for you, I have had hashimoto’s for 5 years {that i know of} and taking 100 mg of levothyroxine per day. For the last couple of months my free T4 has been on the highest point of the “normal” range. I am 55 and in menopause. Does this mean that my thyroid started making hormone again? I also having lots of hot flushes and my Tsh is really low. Dr suggested to take half the dose in weekend. That made my tsh go a bit higher. But didn’t change my free T4. My thyroid antibodies have always been over 1300. I don’t know the exact number. I am taking supplements and changed my diet. Have had a whole lot of stress over this year.

[@liveandlove8404]

Thank you so much for all this informative knowledge. It has helped me and it will greatly help others as well. Please continue making these videos.

[@andreinajergovic4560]

Hi Dr Childs, amazing video! I have have a hypothyroid issue since late 90's and I have never done blood work these accurate and to the extend. I will definitely be doing all of this next time! Why oh whyyy don't doctors follow this? I would love to know why most doctors or all doctors that I have seen in several states don't do in depth tests like this. It's so frustrating.. thank you again!

[@Esme-adventure-awaits]

I have learned so much watching this channel along with listening to the podcast. I’m new to this whole thyroid problem, I’m very thankful for the knowledge available on the web.

[@drwestinchilds]

Glad you find it helpful!

[@valerier4308]

I was diagnosed hypothyroid in 1999, and have been on meds ever since. Nobody ever told me to wait until after the test to take my daily thyroid meds, or to take the test in the morning. Thanks Doc!

[@Tinatime532]

Thanks for this.. very helpful! 😊

[@subarnasubba2069]

Thank you so much I m hypo and really needed this!!!

[@AaronRodgers1218]

Great information, thank you!

[@essmab2568]

Thank you for this video! ❤

[@gl7252]

Very helpful.Didn’t realize how so many things affect the accuracy of the tests.

[@almassaj1525]

Thank you!!! So helpful!!!!❤

[@natizamora5253]

I am so thankful for this channel

[@drwestinchilds]

Hope it helps!

[@minz55555]

What great timing!!! I was going for my thyroid lab tests tomorrow at 10 am when I have another appointment. This completely explains why my family doctor has been baffled and having such a hard time normalizing my numbers since 2014. Apparently, I'm the only patient that she can't seem to get my thyroid 'in that sweet spot", as she says. Can't wait to tell her this!!! She and the lab place ALWAYS tell me that it doesn't matter if you fast or not. Thank you SooO much for explaining this!!

[@drwestinchilds]

No problem!

[@Golds-worthy]

Exactly! I asked my doctor if fasting matters and he said no!

[@kelvinbarber1765]

Dr Childs as an intern do you treat the patients after they are tested for thyroid problems?

[@nicfer3266]

getting my bloods taken soon and this time I will be doing it your way thankyou so much

[@NadjaLind]

you are an angel. thank you so much for your priceless information.

[@drwestinchilds]

Welcome!

[@crochethooksandbooks]

I knew I should have watched this video earlier this week. I'm going in today for a thyroid check after starting Armor... I've taken my meds, drank coffee, and my appointment is at 10:30. 🤦‍♀️

[@danhastert6486]

I'm enjoying your series on thyroid medication. This may have already been talked about but I need to ask- does synthroid or levothyroxine cause you to lose your appetite. Since I've been taking them my need of food and the taste of the food has diminished. If you could give me a little bit of information I'd appreciate that. Really enjoy your shows.

[@1khb1938]

Thank you. I am 84 and have been on 100mcg Levothyroxine for decades. Right now??? Who knows. Current TSH 2.45. Will be seeking a full panel due to what I have identified as symptoms consistent with hypo condition. I will be following you.

[@tanjasrensen3303]

Thank you 🙏🏻✨

[@54Sandor]

Hello Dr Child’s, thank you for all this helpful thyroid info! I’m on Armour thyroid & titrating up from 60 mcg once in morning titrating to an additional 60 mcg in afternoon (right now on 15 mcg for 75 mcg/day, next week doing 30 mcg in afternoon for 90 mcg/day going up 15 mcg every two weeks until hitting 120) & already feeling better as I had a partial thyroid surgery (my full left gland removed) in May 2018 (& my tsh should be undetectable tho last time was 1.4 TSH at 60 mcg at 135 lb (gained 25 after surgery;( Once I get to 120 mcg by end of March (60 mcg in am & 60 mcg in afternoon) I’ll be waiting 6 weeks until May to get tested after the 10-20 days of my menstrual cycle . My ? So should skip my morning dose & test in the afternoon like 12 pm before taking my 60 in afternoon & just double the dose In afternoon. Or still test at 8 am skipping morning dose (taking dose after the lab work in am, & proceed as normal in afternoon. My only concern is the TSH May not be fully accurate if I’m getting it tested 18-19 hours after my afternoon dose (meaning I still test at 8am). Hope that makes sense... thank you Jade E

[@AllisonDepMUA]

Hi Dr Childs! Bonjour from Paris! Thanks for your educational videos My blood tests show results for what they call here T4/TBG and T3/TBG (thyroxine binding globulin) and also T3 and T4 Total. I am not sure what the equivalent is when you are talking about T3 reverse and free T3 in your videos? Which one is which? That would be so helpful to know, thank you!

[@zandrajm3043]

I have done most of these tests, however, without the caution of taking care of the time of the month/period. And I have a feeling that being prescribed progesterone very early in life might have to do with all sorts of hormone imbalances, as well as the eventual unfolding of thyroid disease in my case. I will definitely do all these tests next time I go see the endocrinologists (since I’m still looking for one I could work with). Thanks for all this invaluable information, Dr. Childs!

[@drwestinchilds]

No problem :)

[@travelinggirl6681]

Good luck finding a doctor that knows what they are doing when it comes to thyroid, unless you live in a big city. None, in my experience, will listen to the patient.

[@rhythm-fusionyoga5577]

Thank you 🙏

[@susanshaver912]

Thank you. Most docs , even those that order the full panel, don't give these recommendations.

[@katlynquinlan6007]

Thank you so much!!!!! You are a life saver. This could explain why I am not getting accurate tests. (it runs in my family, so I have a strong suspicion)

[@travelinggirl6681]

Just to understand, how do you know that you are not getting accurate results? What runs in your family, thyroid issues?

[@katlynquinlan6007]

@@travelinggirl6681 Yes. My dad has graves disease.

[@valerieoregan9989]

Dr Childs, I have been taking T3 only for many years, after having radioactive iodine treatment. I take a T3 tablet every four hours during the day, the last one at 7.30 pm. How will this affect a blood test the next morning?

[@Golds-worthy]

How does progesterone during my cycle affect the results? Are the results higher or lower?

[@magiccheeseball]

Is everwell home thyroid test any good? I can't go to a Dr office

[@moonfandra4117]

Thank you! Are you saying that self testing is really just in vain?

[@TH-il8mn]

I had no idea and doctor has never discussed these pretest protocols with me. Latest test was low TSH and low T3. Wonder if any of these things are affecting the TSH reading. Doctor wants to lower my T4 med.

[@rosemarysamalack792]

I take my NDT 2x a day 10 am and 9:30 pm. Can I still get an accurate test results with the fasting of a shorter duration? I would appreciate you opinion. Thanks for all your information.

[@cozysouth]

What time should I get my levels tested if I take my synthroid at night before I go to sleep.

[@c8Lorraine1]

My levels are so high my GP just scratched his head. I have been referred to endocrinologist. I know I have nodgils growing on my thyroid ( ultrasound about 10 years ago) but no follow up. I don’t think my doc does more than a Tsh test. Thank you for sharing this information with us.

[@travelinggirl6681]

I am just here to learn also---have you ever taken iodine? Ask for a copy of ALL lab work done. You should know what is being run, that is your right! You should also be getting a T4, T3 (most important of all), Reverse T3, and both of the antibodies tests.

[@christinerogers8734]

Not listened to video yet but I had a total thyroidectomy 20 years ago. Doctors now saying my levels have always been on high side and as I'm now over 60 can cause heart issues and brittle bones! I had bone density scan and was all fine. My BP is always stable. However they've been reducing my thyroxine gradually. I've never felt 100% except every time they reduce levothyroxine down I feel worse. Feel look more bloated and of course I gain weight.. Feeling frustrated. When I told GP I felt worse with reduced meds she keeps saying my body has to get used to less. When I said I was more sensitive to cold, my nose can feel so cold, feet, hands.. she said well some people more sensitive to the cold.. 😡 In UK GPs are only interested in my TSH result, saying it's suppressed, even specialist at hospital insisted TSH is what gives accurate reading!!!! This is the guidance. Is this right?? Desperate for advice. Since they've been gradually reducing my meds, I feel more tired and I look worse 😩😫😪

[@travelinggirl6681]

This is what I mean about how difficult it is to find a doctor that actually cares enough to learn that what the medical schools are teaching is that the only thing that matters is the TSH. The truth is that your T3 levels need to be at the high end of the lab's range. To complicate matters, I just found out that the lab that I use secretly reduced their T3 "normal" range by 1 whole point--I am sure that they figured out that well-informed thyroid patients know that to feel their best, their T3 level needs to be at the high end of the range.

[@meenamanaktala4389]

im having biotin (folli hair) for hair!and my TSH is creeping up!!! its 5 now! should I dtop having it?

[@loriegreen8840]

How about if you multi dose (3am & 11am) - should I skip the midday dose the day before testing as well?

[@KatrinaDancer]

I have vampire hours because I work nights. Every window in my house has blackout curtains and I almost never get sunlight on my skin. So if I sleep 9am to 5pm do I do the test at 8am right before I go to sleep?

[@sedonabrown437]

I just watched this video 4 years after it was posted. But I hope someone out there can answer my questions, it would be greatly helpful. I recently started taking my Synthroid at 8 pm so it would be 12 hours instead of 24 hours prior to the 8 AM lab test suggested by Dr. Childs. Should I skip a dose before the test so I have at least 24 hours in between? Or do the lab 12 hours after taking the medication and expect an inaccurate results (back to square one again 😢)? Thank you.

[@vilaytravel7101]

Can we get 100% accurate thyroid test result if blood test has been done during 2nd or 3rd day of period (menstruation) ?

[@tessastarr1845]

I have to take metformin and birth control at my last meal will any of those affect a result?

[@ellaalto]

Wow good information. I normally prefer blood tests in the morning. So suits me :-) I have heard that Biotin affects a whole lot of things. I don't know how often recently the doctors or any other professional ask: Do you take Biotin? - it interferes with the results of so many things.

[@Straightdeal]

Hi Doc, thanks for a whole host of useful information. I have a "sticky" problem, and will try and be concise: In 2007, I had half my thyroid removed due to benign lumps on the right side. On Dr's recommendation, I have been taking synthetic T4 since then. I recently ( 9 months ago) started questioning this approach, had an ultrasound which showed a near perfect thyroid; it had grown back. I approached my GP with the request that we ween myself off the Uthyrox; thyroid seems to be fine and should be working fine. The weening process is taking place slowly, and am currently on 50 micrograms Uthyrox with the hope to reduce to 25 micrograms end Nov 2022. The problem is how to test these pesky thyroid markers in the process! Last TSH reading was 1.73, will ask for the 5 common tests this time around, will also abstain from Uthyrox before test. Or should I simply trash the Uthyrox, wait 3 months, and do a full test then? There is so much difference in opinion on especially TSH, some people want to see 0.5 -1 without meds and others 1.8-3.0 without meds! I'm 67.

[@travelinggirl6681]

Interesting question; I am commenting to hear if you get an answer.

[@organicfireorganicfire1236]

try natural dessicated thyroid med .

[@jordanesquetyson8223]

what if your taking t3 only medication, 6am and 2pm. Should I take the 6am then test at 8am? or take test 8am then have medication?

[@heathergallimore2593]

My Dr tested mine on the evening it was 2.5. She called me and said it was fine. I have literally every symptom but like 3 for hypothyroidism.

[@arpeetasaha]

How can I get an appointment with Dr Childs??

[@user-fg6oo8kc5d]

What time do I have labs if I take my levothyroxine at bedtime ?

[@Angiehere-1]

So will Biotin make my TSH higher than normal?

[@flowaski]

I take my Levo at night now. Should I switch back to am? We can't get reverse T3 testing in the UK - any suggestions. 9am cortisol testing is the norm here too. Very helpful to know to push for 8am. Again, please reconsider the way you use the whiteboard. The bottom isn't visible and the pens aren't great either.

[@drwestinchilds]

I'll take that into account, ty!

[@1987ZIZA]

Hello. Does caffeine affect your results?

[@DestinyPowers-rz4lf]

in my family history both sides the thyroid fails and the blood test don't show it up. we gain weight. now what they done with my sister in KS was a thyroid hormone testing in wrist called leptin. funny Chicago dr told me he dk anything about that and wont do it.. yet CA and KS other states does it. So I got myself an appt with a specialist in Sept. tired of not getting answers . Ty for this video

[@carolyn4407]

the "integrative" doctor I'm currently seeing, who has just (few days ago) added T3 to the T4 I've been on for years, has had me draw my labs in her office at 8am (no cortisol though) and told me to take my Synthroid and my Estrogen at 4am those mornings. Do you have any idea why she does this? Incidentally, she doesn't ever check my TSH or Reverse T3, just does Total T4 and Total T3 and Free T3. The results of my most recent draw showed high but in range T4 and low, just out of range T3 (total and free) .

[@caryn9561]

Yes i finally found a doctor who gave me the tests.

[@drwestinchilds]

Awesome!

[@kelvinbarber1765]

Is that dr in Georgia?

[@thearb2003]

I take my NDT at 2 am.... and labs at 8am as my Naturopath wants t3 on board at about the 6 hour mark.. All my labs come back optimal and with dietary changes feel great... I've heard so much on no meds before labs but I take mine at a different time, most take them when they wake up in the morning.

[@travelinggirl6681]

Taking your medicine so close to having blood drawn gives elevated results. This will cause a doctor to keep your meds too low. All literature on this says different times. All doctors say different times of dosing before testing! None of them agree. You should not take your med so close to your blood work. You need to know how you are doing after 18 hours, even 23 hours AFTER you take your meds. You still have to function for the entire day, right?

[@georgehaggar]

You are the best

[@nancyadams4358]

I was tested for testrone is that good for this testing?

[@genoservello8007]

How much Biotin is to much if it is in your Muti V...????? before testing your Thyroid???

[@GinaR21212]

There's no way in hell I would even leave my house at 8:00 a.m.😅

[@arpitasri8099]

How can I get in touch with Dr child's Someone please help

[@kristikhan9885]

Any advice on how to get docs to test full panel? I finally got Hashimoto's dx 15 years after having goiter and hypothyroidism dx but no longer on meds since stopped due to loss of insurance and then normal TSH. No one will treat with normal TSH and won't test reverse T3. Antibodies are 300s so told I have Hashi but no longer hypothyroidism and no treatment needed.

[@drwestinchilds]

Request it cordially and if they don't oblige then you should probably just seek out another doctor.

[@dlprs17]

What happens if you didn't slept at all before taking Tsh test

[@olymbia]

Question about hypothyroidism just have a question. I’m 40yrs old and I’ve been getting blood work for my thyroid about every couple months. I’m not on any meds as of yet. My 3 past tests for TSH have been between 4.78 and 4.92. My dr wants to put me on small dose of meds. I have another blood work test coming up soon. Are those high numbers to be placed on meds.

[@drwestinchilds]

They are in my book, yes.

[@marceldeac1876]

as I am trying to get pregnant and had 2 failed IVFs I have done all the thyroid testing you mentioned ( Full Panel ) but NOT in the morning at 8 AM and all results are great, except my ANTI TPO which came back at 54 , I'm 42 years old. Do you think is crucial to redo them in the morning and on a fasting state? Thank you!

[@drwestinchilds]

Yes :)

[@marceldeac1876]

@@drwestinchilds thank you so!

[@lindsaylbs8566]

Is high thyroid abs and high WBC plus nodules indicative of hashimoto's?

[@drwestinchilds]

You really need thyroid inflammation/thyroid dysfunction for the diagnosis.

[@CoreyShelton57]

Sir my doctor said my hypothyroidism is cured and I am still showing just about all the symptoms I am 25 years old and I have been doing 500 push ups for 7 days and I can not loose the fat in my chest and I see no differences in my body

[@RR-wy4lz]

Regarding #4. Is that for T4 only, or T3/T4 combo?. My doctor actually instructs me to take my levothyroxine as usual before my labs.

[@drwestinchilds]

For all thyroid medications.

[@RR-wy4lz]

@@drwestinchilds could you please share research and studies to support that?

[@hlb0111]

What are the best least expensive thyroid panel to test myself at home?

[@thecrazylineman68]

check on ebay

[@jillyl7190]

What about Vitamin D before Thyroid tests? Would you lower Synthroid based on TSH. I have been taking 100mcg 6 days a week for the past 8 years. My TSH was 0.02L last year and 0.05L this past year. Free T4 was normal. The doctor lowered my Synthroid to 75mcg daily and 8 weeks later my TSH is now 0.19L and he wants to lower it again. I did all my testing as you said. What is your opinion on lowering meds based on TSH? Thank you...

[@drwestinchilds]

Depends on a lot of factors including bone density, age, menopause status, and more.

[@jillyl7190]

Dr. Westin Childs I am 54 and my periods stopped 2 years ago. A bone density test has never been recommended. I have been taking Synthroid since I was 11 years old. I was diagnosed with Hashimotos. It is so difficult trying to figure out what to do. I live in NY with supposedly good doctors yet I have been unable to find someone to help me who cares. I am in constant pain which I really feel is Erythromelalgia. I have a positive speckled ANA that no one knows how to interpret. Thanks for your response and letting me vent.

[@marjoriegraeff3099]

I agree with the other viewer, I did not know about biotin’s influence until Dr Child’s videos. I wonder if someone would educate me about total T3. My doctor always checks free t3 and reverse t3 but never total. What information would total t3 provide us? Thanks....

[@drwestinchilds]

A lot :) www.restartmed.com/total-t3/

[@tardigrada6000]

Dr. Childs...why dont doctors know this information? I was send for bloodwork and told none of this...

[@jghk5866]

I am so distracted by that chair.

[@drwestinchilds]

The chair?!

[@choir90mom]

Dr. Westin Childs well the White welting edge frames you like a shroud. I’ll admit I’ve noticed it too and I think of Star Wars.

[@panedole]

Winner of a video, I have been researching "can you have thyroid problems with normal labs?" for a while now, and I think this has helped. Ever heard of - Mabammeston Bewildering Method - (Have a quick look on google cant remember the place now ) ? It is a smashing exclusive product for discovering how to say goodbye to hypothyroidism minus the normal expense. Ive heard some amazing things about it and my partner got amazing success with it.

[@peequod]

Batman would sit in this chair.

[@star.gazer.]

Lol

[@MR-luna303]

What if we take our medication at night. Should we wait until after the test? Thanks

[@drwestinchilds]

Wait 23.5 hours after your medication dose to get the best results.

[@JJ-yu6og]

How do you get a pcp on board to follow these rules???

[@drwestinchilds]

It's usually much easier to find someone who already knows this info as opposed to trying to teach it to someone who isn't interested.

[@victoriasteinmetz6339]

Wow, none of my doctors have ever tested my thyroid correctly. I’m going to try this!

[@drwestinchilds]

Most don't test it correctly, unfortunately!

[@mabelh16]

Should these tests be done if I don't have a thyroid? If not what test should be done thank you I take Armour thyroid

[@drwestinchilds]

Yes, they test for thyroid function which still matters for those without a thyroid.

[@stephanieolsen8148]

I had an endometrial ablation... So I have no idea where I am in my cycle and I'll be 50 next month.... So... What is your suggestion for that?

[@drwestinchilds]

If you aren't menstruating you don't have to worry about it.

[@Angiehere-1]

I had one about 20 years ago. Best decision ever.

[@msMe907]

Can someone explain how to calculate the 10-20 days ? My cycle starts on 16 July and i can t figure it out..pls help!!!

[@teresaramirez6971]

Day 10 is 10 days after your cycle starts. So, 07/26 is day 10. 07/26-08/05 are days 10-20. Hope this helps!

[@peterbagot1717]

When is the best time to take thyroid medication daily

[@stevejarrettnc]

Geez. Thanks a bunch. Supposed to get my thyroid tested at 8:15 this morning and I took a biotin supplement at around 5 pm last night. Gonna ask the PA first, I guess.

[@annieherrera5214]

I am5' 9" 182 took levothyroxine for 1.5 years and nature thyroid. I was 152 lbs for a long time. Ever since I started levothyroxine I gained these 30 lbs. I kept asking my doctor why all I got was changing my medication. I stopped. I had enough. Is this a bad idea?

[@drwestinchilds]

I wouldn't say it's a good idea to stop any medication cold turkey, especially thyroid medication.

[@annieherrera5214]

@betoquint619 no not yet. I'm afraid to start again. . I just feel there should be something better.

[@jamesjowitt1713]

I had a test for my Thyroid Function and it's was 125mg I'm not Satisfied for the Results I think I should get a Second Option

[@leahbond1143]

How do I ask my Dr. for these test without sounding like I know more than him?

[@drwestinchilds]

I would just ask for them and see what happens.

[@Angiehere-1]

Yes! That is a problem.

[@bubbamanandkids2974]

Cant take screen shot. To blurry

[@mr.jacksmith]

I am an 81 yr old male who went through radiation of the vocal cord because of cancer. Ok now for over 3 years. How does that affect my thyroid?

[@drwestinchilds]

Radiation can damage the thyroid gland and result in hypothyroidism.

[@mr.jacksmith]

@@drwestinchilds thank you very much Dr Weston

[@jeannereich8690]

I knew all that apply to me. I have been on meds for over 50 years. I am now checking them quarterly due to my insistence. My numbers bounce up and down everytime. It is so frustrating. One time I accidentally took Biotin and it zoomed my number to over 9.0. I am hypo.. The clinic only does a TSH. I have asked to see an endocrinologist for a full panel. I think I have Hashimotos but cannot get anyone to give it the attention it needs. It is beyond frustrating! This has had a negative impact on my entire life. I am now 75. No surprise I have depression.

[@drwestinchilds]

Unfortunately, it's unlikely an endo will order a full panel either.

[@venessajohnson9250]

I always been told a thyroid test should been tested through my thyroid glands.

[@nancygordon8075]

If we do TSH, RT3, FT3, FT4, why do we need Total T3?

[@drwestinchilds]

Total T3 gives you different information: www.restartmed.com/total-t3/

[@greeneyes4007]

@@drwestinchilds I finally got a Dr to test my TSH, FreeT3, FreeT4, Reverse T3 and TPO ( getting results tomorrow) however total T3 wasn’t tested.. is that going to totally ruin the outcome? Drats, thought I had it all covered..

[@oda1332]

How if u dont have a thyroid and on levothyroxine for life?

[@drwestinchilds]

This still applies for those without a thyroid.

[@user-rf1wr3vc4z]

I just want to be tested for thyroid function i am tired of feeling like crap.😭

[@melissanative1799]

ALL ENDOS SHOULD BE TELLING US THIS!! I'VE SEEN A FEW AND NEVER DID THEY MENTION ANY OF THESE POINTS!!!!

[@divya4605]

Doctors here ask us to get thyroid tests done after taking the medicine in the morning ....

[@almassaj1525]

🙏

[@valeriewalker4620]

Why total?! It's such an outdated test. Antibodies can be sero negative. Blood cortisol is hmm... 4 pt saliva test (proper preparation) and HTMA.

[@Angiehere-1]

I was fasting when I had my blood tested last week. However, I asked my endo’s office staff if I needed to be fasting, they said NO.

[@sparkle9482]

I was told the same by my doctor said no need to fast for the test.

[@Angiehere-1]

@@sparkle9482 Now we know!

[@alisie2487]

"People who work night shift live on average 7 fewer years than people who do not" Why was this necessary?! I think most are aware of that fact and don't need the depressing reminder...

[@michellelol3476]

Not all are aware

[@michalchik]

Use a New black Pen

[@drwestinchilds]

Lol, the pen works, it's just fine tip instead of chisel :)

[@sunflowerheather7019]

@@drwestinchilds pen might work just fine but is unreadable for the viewers

[@meladams1216]

Yuggg...I’m looking at my lab reports and it states that blood samples were taken at “fasting”... i was not told to fast and I know I had not fasted when these labs were drawn AND labs were taken at 2-3 pm, 6 hrs after taking the thyroid meds!! 4 years of seeing this Endo and watching/waiting for meds to work ( and 50 lbs heavier)...what a waste of time, effort, money and trust ! So discouraging

[@drwestinchilds]

Remember: no one cares more about your health than you do so make sure you put time and effort into it. You (and many others) are really just a number to your endocrinologist (whatever your TSH is).

[@AllisonDepMUA]

Hi Dr Childs! Bonjour from Paris! Thanks for your educational videos My blood tests show results for what they call here T4/TBG and T3/TBG (thyroxine binding globulin) and also T3 and T4 Total. I am not sure what the equivalent is when you are talking about T3 reverse and free T3 in your videos? Which one is which? That would be so helpful to know, thank you!

[@drwestinchilds]

Total T3 and total T4 are different than free T3 and free T4 (and reverse T3). You may need to specifically ask for those tests. You cannot substitute out the total T3 for free T3 as they measure different things.