Why can’t I always get a referral for hormone tests during an e-consultation?

Some thyroid diseases require an endocrinologist to perform a physical examination before deciding on the scope of diagnostic tests and examinations.

Additionally, the doctor checks the height, body weight, skin and mucous membrane colour (presence of stretch marks and acne changes), as well as the amount and location of hair and body fat. In case of some diseases, the doctor must also check the size and compactness of organs – thyroid, nipples and testicles.

What are the most common symptoms of hypothyroidism?

In the case of hypothyroidism, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, episodes of depression, excessive dryness of the skin, feeling cold in places where other people feel warm, slow heart rate, as well as brittle nails and hair usually occur in the beginning. When the disease develops, patients start complaining about weight gain, swelling, non-specific joint and muscle pain, constipation and loss of libido. Women also experience heavy periods and difficulty getting pregnant.

What are the most common symptoms of hyperthyroidism?

The most common hyperthyroidism symptoms include excessive sweating and feeling hot, muscle tremor (mainly trembling hands), nervousness, irritability, weight loss, increased bowel movements (including diarrhoea), feeling of fast heartbeat, menstruation disorders, fatigue and concentration problems.

What tests/examinations should be performed in hypothyroidism and how often?

A blood test should be performed once every six months to measure the TSH level. A referral for these tests/examinations can be issued by an internist or GP during a telemedicine consultation if there is information about the diagnosis and treatment of hypothyroidism in your Medicover records.

How often should I have my thyroid ultrasound?

Unless the doctor in charge or the doctor assessing the last thyroid ultrasound scan recommends otherwise, the check-up examination should not be performed more often than once a year. A referral for this examination can be issued by an internist or GP during a telemedicine consultation if there is information about the diagnosis and treatment of hypothyroidism in your Medicover records.

How often should the level of ATPO/ATG antibodies be determined?

In the case of already diagnosed Hashimoto’s disease, i.e. autoimmune thyroiditis, there is no need to perform further tests to determine the level of ATPO and ATG antibodies because changes in their levels do not affect the course and treatment of this disease.

Does hypothyroidism affect pregnancy?

Hypothyroidism, if not treated or treated inadequately, can cause difficulties in getting pregnant and early pregnancy loss.

What is the correct TSH level during pregnancy?

According to recent recommendations of the Polish Society of Endocrinology, TSH levels should be between 0.3 mU/l and 2.5 mU/l.

Should I take iodine during pregnancy?

Iodine supplementation of 150 mcg/day is the prevention standard in Poland and worldwide. Iodine should also be taken by pregnant women who have been diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease.