Feedback on Test results

[brutusman]

Gents,

Just got my Testosterone lab results back and would like some feedback.

Total 686 ng/dl; Free 104 pg/ml; SHBG 52 nmol/L; Percentage Free 1.5% (L)

Not really sure what to think, since I can answer YES on most of the ADAM questions on almost any given day. What if you numbers look good on paper, but you still don't feel "right."?

Also TSH test came back high at 6.23 which from what I read could mean low thyroid activity.

Anyway, would appreciate some feedback. Given the way I have been feeling for the last several years I expected my numbers to be much lower.

Thanks, Bill

 

[Nelson Vergel]

I would look deeper into your thyroid function.

Needed tests:

Free T3
Free T4
Reverse T3
Thyroid antibodies (AB and anti-TPO)

Depending on funds: ferritin, iron

http://www.discountedlabs.com/choose-your-test/

 

[brutusman]

Nelson,

Thanks. My Doc wants me come back in 2 months for additional testing. Not sure why he wants to wait two months, other than I have been experimenting with my diet - calories, ratios, etc., and he wants to see if things may improve on their own. Was on fairly low calorie diet to shed some weight quickly and that may have had some impact on my system.

Really don't want to wait until July to figure this out, so will contact him and see about getting in earlier for the tests you recommended.

Thanks again. Bill

 

[Vince Carter]

That TSH is what I'd call off the charts, I don't know I've seen a reading that high. If your Dr isn't cooperative on those tests, you can buy them yourself, discountedlabs.com

Listen to Nelson there, and add in, again, TSH, to eliminate a bad previous test or even lab error.

 

[CoastWatcher]

Discountedlabs.com has a link from this page. I have used them and was pleased with cost and service.

 

[Jasen Bruce]

Great advice from all!
I wanted to add, never make conclusions from just one test result. Follow up with another blood test panel and then check annually thereafter (or more frequent if deemed necessary)

A single blood analysis may not provide an accurate picture. I know of no exact science but maybe take the average of 3 tests spaced out every 4-6 weeks. There can sometimes be flaws with a single draw and also your hormones can change dramatically under certain conditions. Adding suggested tests can provide more info, like the thyroid tests Nelson suggested. You have symptoms and can get to the bottom of them if you can rule out other hormones and confirm that your testosterone remains within a good range consistently 686ng is a great number, and you did good having Free T, SHBG, but I did not see estradiol which is important to test every time- but should not be an issue considering your T is not super high.

There can be other causes for your symptoms. Many neglect the psychological and mental health component- some neurotransmitters are the other half of your libido. With proper guidance and self-education you can dial everything in to where you feel best. Keep monitoring your hormones as you explore and learn about other possible sources

 

[brutusman]

Thanks everyone for the feedback. Very much appreciated. Will be contacting my doc after Memorial Day and setting up additional tests. Will post again once I get the next lab results.