Hi All,
My doctor just ordered blood tests for estrogen and progesterone, in addition to LH and FSH. I have the lab orders. I'm to get blood drawn on Day 2 and Day 21 of my period. Well, as luck would have it, my period started today (Friday). Monday is a holiday. That means lab won't be open until Tuesday, which will be Day 5. The other complicating factor is how wacky my period is -- today, just spotting. I think it's going to start in earnest, but I don't know -- three weeks ago I thought I was getting a period but it was just four days of brown spotting. So if I spot for two days, then start bleeding, what counts as Day 2??
I really don't want to wait on my next period for the blood tests, because who knows when that will come!!
If I go on Tuesday and it's really Day 5 of my period, will I skew the results?
I received several other blood test results which just have me confused. In addition to my previously diagnosed B12 and D deficiencies, I now learn I have magnesium deficiency, zinc deficiency, and ferritin deficiency. Also, the doctor thinks I have borderline hypothyroidism -- something about the ratio of T3 and T4 numbers (although taken individually, both are in the normal range). So now she's testing thyroid antibodies and my iodine, as well as making me get a thyroid ultrasound.
I'm just bone tired, had a premenstrual headache for three and half days before this measly spotting started today, yesterday hit inexplicably with what I've dubbed the "creepies" -- just feeling creepy and scared and like something bad is going to happen. It's insane.
I don't know what direction to go in, on top of the massive amounts of supplements I'm now taking (B complex, Vitamin D, iron, magnesium, calcium, Vitamin E, Vitamin B12 sublingually, and I haven't even figured out how to add in the zinc). Thyroid? Hormones? Adrenal fatigue (I declined the saliva test because insurance won't cover it)?
Sometimes I'm not so sure whether having all these tests is really helping.
Missy
Full Version: Any Advice on Blood Test Timing?
Hey Missy!
If I were you, I'd call the doctors office first thing tuesday morning and see what they recommend - also, I was told by my cardiologist/internist thyroid tests are most accurate first thing in the morning, so any thyroid tests should be done as early as possible. (I usually schedule mine between 9:30 and 10:00) (and I think that's pretty common in all blood tests - the earlier in the day the better)
As for the supplements - have you checked out at GNC? I just got a powder form vitamin that has many of the things I need all in one. (powder or liquid are much better than pill form because it absorbs better & faster) so I was able to reduce the number of supplements I was taking. (I'm hyperthyroid). If you can have your doctor help you figure out how much you need of everything, you can check there to see if they have something that might help you cut some of your supplements too.
Hang in there!
Tay
If I were you, I'd call the doctors office first thing tuesday morning and see what they recommend - also, I was told by my cardiologist/internist thyroid tests are most accurate first thing in the morning, so any thyroid tests should be done as early as possible. (I usually schedule mine between 9:30 and 10:00) (and I think that's pretty common in all blood tests - the earlier in the day the better)
As for the supplements - have you checked out at GNC? I just got a powder form vitamin that has many of the things I need all in one. (powder or liquid are much better than pill form because it absorbs better & faster) so I was able to reduce the number of supplements I was taking. (I'm hyperthyroid). If you can have your doctor help you figure out how much you need of everything, you can check there to see if they have something that might help you cut some of your supplements too.
Hang in there!
Tay
Thanks, Tay. I will check out GNC. This all gets so confusing.
I thought I wanted to get my period, since it's been a few months since I've had one. Wow. Today -- tons of bleeding and I'm just housebound because of the horrible soreness and cramps. Then the pain from the cramps just makes me exhausted.
It's great to have this forum. I see so many women around me my age or older and they don't seem to be struggling with so many issues.
Missy
I thought I wanted to get my period, since it's been a few months since I've had one. Wow. Today -- tons of bleeding and I'm just housebound because of the horrible soreness and cramps. Then the pain from the cramps just makes me exhausted.
It's great to have this forum. I see so many women around me my age or older and they don't seem to be struggling with so many issues.
Missy
Missy My Friend, believe me when I say thyroid, no matter if it trends towards hypo or hyper, can make you feel so bad you think you're going to die. Hypo can send you into a deep depression, you can gain weight, be exhausted, loose hair...the list is endless. And the same holds true for hyperthyroid. Before I was dx'd I was convinced I had a brain tumor or some neuro problem like MS. Both are insidious, they sneak up slowly and you aren't even aware it's happening and when signs occur, you (generally) put it down to meno.
Missy, if you could have seen me last year, you would have sworn I was a drug addict in need of a fix. My hands shook, I barely slept, my eyes were swollen, my hair was falling out. I finally went to the doctor (a new guy) only to be told I had sinus infection and meno anxiety. (good grief!)
To make a long story short, I was lucky in the fact that last year I was less than 2 weeks from leaving for mexico & I had a friend get me an appt with a doctor down there. She turned out to be a life saver. Not only is she a leading cardiologist, but she's also an internist and when I sat down and she asked what was wrong, all it took was for me to hold up my hands for her to see the shaking. Missy, she knew instantly I was hyperthyroid.
This year when I went back, I was a bit worse, though I actually felt better. (which can be common). I knew I needed an increase in my Tapazole because my eyes were jumping (that was my only clue). Much to my surprise she also showed me I had something called hyper-extended relexes (wow, that was something to behold!), then she told me I had achillies...something, and another common problem in hyper....wasting muscles & joint inflamation. Did I know I had all that - nope. Yes, I knew my joints and muscles hurt, but I put it down to getting older, but that wasn't the case.
And another bit of luck? Because mexico physicians believe in combining supplements with medications, she not only increased my tapazole, she also handed me a list of additional things I was to take. However, like I said, I was on vacation and with the strict TSA rules, suffice to say I opted to get them when I got home.
But, there is one thing you may not know...supplements take much longer to help than a script med. In my case, most of my supplements will take several months until I notice a difference. Several are amino acids, and I also need a large amount of Omega. On the other hand, I have to avoid iodine but increase the copper I consume. Do you know how hard it is to find a multi-vit that doesn't contain 100% recommended iodine?? (sheez!) But, GNC has it. (they also have the other too - the one that contains iodine).
She also told me to watch what I eat because some foods inhibit thyroid function and others stimulate it. I need foods that surpress it, so I was told to cut down on coffee (it stimulates), black teas, chocolate (that ain't gonna happen) etc. and to eat lots of green veggies. Unfortunately, I have IBS and can't eat greens or it will cause a flare-up, but the powder vit. I'm using has the greens in it, just in powder form that is quickly absorbed and my digestive tract doesn't have to deal with it. I believe the powder was something like 20 bucks and it's enough for a month. (it even comes with a shaker/sippy cup and blender ball so it stirs up well). I take it after my evening meal and the only additional things I take are what I need more of - amino acids and more omega. (I've cut out at least 4 different supps by using this vit formula - so it's actually cheaper to use)
My suggestion - if the doctor won't help you figure out what you need (by way of supps), take your lab test out to GNC and let them help you. (that is, after you get the lab results and know what you need the most). They have an amazing amount of knowledge and should be able to help you get just what you need. Then all you need is patience. (that's the hard part) I've even switched to a homeopath sinus decongestant because neither hypo nor hyper people can take OTC sinus relievers anymore. Granted it's more expensive than OTC's, but it works and it's all natural.
And Missy, don't beat up on yourself. You didn't do anything to make your body revolt - your hormones did. So, it's ok! I know you feel awful, but you will get better. Your doctor seems to suspect it's your thyroid and that's a big step because most overlook it. So hang in there. If he doesn't mention what supplements you need YOU bring it up. The best form of action is working with the doctor. If he knows you're willing to go the extra mile, he/she may be quite happy to work with you.
I'm in your corner kid...!
Tay
Missy, if you could have seen me last year, you would have sworn I was a drug addict in need of a fix. My hands shook, I barely slept, my eyes were swollen, my hair was falling out. I finally went to the doctor (a new guy) only to be told I had sinus infection and meno anxiety. (good grief!)
To make a long story short, I was lucky in the fact that last year I was less than 2 weeks from leaving for mexico & I had a friend get me an appt with a doctor down there. She turned out to be a life saver. Not only is she a leading cardiologist, but she's also an internist and when I sat down and she asked what was wrong, all it took was for me to hold up my hands for her to see the shaking. Missy, she knew instantly I was hyperthyroid.
This year when I went back, I was a bit worse, though I actually felt better. (which can be common). I knew I needed an increase in my Tapazole because my eyes were jumping (that was my only clue). Much to my surprise she also showed me I had something called hyper-extended relexes (wow, that was something to behold!), then she told me I had achillies...something, and another common problem in hyper....wasting muscles & joint inflamation. Did I know I had all that - nope. Yes, I knew my joints and muscles hurt, but I put it down to getting older, but that wasn't the case.
And another bit of luck? Because mexico physicians believe in combining supplements with medications, she not only increased my tapazole, she also handed me a list of additional things I was to take. However, like I said, I was on vacation and with the strict TSA rules, suffice to say I opted to get them when I got home.
But, there is one thing you may not know...supplements take much longer to help than a script med. In my case, most of my supplements will take several months until I notice a difference. Several are amino acids, and I also need a large amount of Omega. On the other hand, I have to avoid iodine but increase the copper I consume. Do you know how hard it is to find a multi-vit that doesn't contain 100% recommended iodine?? (sheez!) But, GNC has it. (they also have the other too - the one that contains iodine).
She also told me to watch what I eat because some foods inhibit thyroid function and others stimulate it. I need foods that surpress it, so I was told to cut down on coffee (it stimulates), black teas, chocolate (that ain't gonna happen) etc. and to eat lots of green veggies. Unfortunately, I have IBS and can't eat greens or it will cause a flare-up, but the powder vit. I'm using has the greens in it, just in powder form that is quickly absorbed and my digestive tract doesn't have to deal with it. I believe the powder was something like 20 bucks and it's enough for a month. (it even comes with a shaker/sippy cup and blender ball so it stirs up well). I take it after my evening meal and the only additional things I take are what I need more of - amino acids and more omega. (I've cut out at least 4 different supps by using this vit formula - so it's actually cheaper to use)
My suggestion - if the doctor won't help you figure out what you need (by way of supps), take your lab test out to GNC and let them help you. (that is, after you get the lab results and know what you need the most). They have an amazing amount of knowledge and should be able to help you get just what you need. Then all you need is patience. (that's the hard part) I've even switched to a homeopath sinus decongestant because neither hypo nor hyper people can take OTC sinus relievers anymore. Granted it's more expensive than OTC's, but it works and it's all natural.
And Missy, don't beat up on yourself. You didn't do anything to make your body revolt - your hormones did. So, it's ok! I know you feel awful, but you will get better. Your doctor seems to suspect it's your thyroid and that's a big step because most overlook it. So hang in there. If he doesn't mention what supplements you need YOU bring it up. The best form of action is working with the doctor. If he knows you're willing to go the extra mile, he/she may be quite happy to work with you.
I'm in your corner kid...!
Tay
QUOTE (Tay @ Apr 19 2009, 12:21 PM) 
Missy My Friend, believe me when I say thyroid, no matter if it trends towards hypo or hyper, can make you feel so bad you think you're going to die. Hypo can send you into a deep depression, you can gain weight, be exhausted, loose hair...the list is endless. And the same holds true for hyperthyroid. Before I was dx'd I was convinced I had a brain tumor or some neuro problem like MS. Both are insidious, they sneak up slowly and you aren't even aware it's happening and when signs occur, you (generally) put it down to meno.
Missy, if you could have seen me last year, you would have sworn I was a drug addict in need of a fix. My hands shook, I barely slept, my eyes were swollen, my hair was falling out. I finally went to the doctor (a new guy) only to be told I had sinus infection and meno anxiety. (good grief!)
To make a long story short, I was lucky in the fact that last year I was less than 2 weeks from leaving for mexico & I had a friend get me an appt with a doctor down there. She turned out to be a life saver. Not only is she a leading cardiologist, but she's also an internist and when I sat down and she asked what was wrong, all it took was for me to hold up my hands for her to see the shaking. Missy, she knew instantly I was hyperthyroid.
This year when I went back, I was a bit worse, though I actually felt better. (which can be common). I knew I needed an increase in my Tapazole because my eyes were jumping (that was my only clue). Much to my surprise she also showed me I had something called hyper-extended relexes (wow, that was something to behold!), then she told me I had achillies...something, and another common problem in hyper....wasting muscles & joint inflamation. Did I know I had all that - nope. Yes, I knew my joints and muscles hurt, but I put it down to getting older, but that wasn't the case.
And another bit of luck? Because mexico physicians believe in combining supplements with medications, she not only increased my tapazole, she also handed me a list of additional things I was to take. However, like I said, I was on vacation and with the strict TSA rules, suffice to say I opted to get them when I got home.
But, there is one thing you may not know...supplements take much longer to help than a script med. In my case, most of my supplements will take several months until I notice a difference. Several are amino acids, and I also need a large amount of Omega. On the other hand, I have to avoid iodine but increase the copper I consume. Do you know how hard it is to find a multi-vit that doesn't contain 100% recommended iodine?? (sheez!) But, GNC has it. (they also have the other too - the one that contains iodine).
She also told me to watch what I eat because some foods inhibit thyroid function and others stimulate it. I need foods that surpress it, so I was told to cut down on coffee (it stimulates), black teas, chocolate (that ain't gonna happen) etc. and to eat lots of green veggies. Unfortunately, I have IBS and can't eat greens or it will cause a flare-up, but the powder vit. I'm using has the greens in it, just in powder form that is quickly absorbed and my digestive tract doesn't have to deal with it. I believe the powder was something like 20 bucks and it's enough for a month. (it even comes with a shaker/sippy cup and blender ball so it stirs up well). I take it after my evening meal and the only additional things I take are what I need more of - amino acids and more omega. (I've cut out at least 4 different supps by using this vit formula - so it's actually cheaper to use)
My suggestion - if the doctor won't help you figure out what you need (by way of supps), take your lab test out to GNC and let them help you. (that is, after you get the lab results and know what you need the most). They have an amazing amount of knowledge and should be able to help you get just what you need. Then all you need is patience. (that's the hard part) I've even switched to a homeopath sinus decongestant because neither hypo nor hyper people can take OTC sinus relievers anymore. Granted it's more expensive than OTC's, but it works and it's all natural.
And Missy, don't beat up on yourself. You didn't do anything to make your body revolt - your hormones did. So, it's ok! I know you feel awful, but you will get better. Your doctor seems to suspect it's your thyroid and that's a big step because most overlook it. So hang in there. If he doesn't mention what supplements you need YOU bring it up. The best form of action is working with the doctor. If he knows you're willing to go the extra mile, he/she may be quite happy to work with you.
I'm in your corner kid...!
Tay
Missy, if you could have seen me last year, you would have sworn I was a drug addict in need of a fix. My hands shook, I barely slept, my eyes were swollen, my hair was falling out. I finally went to the doctor (a new guy) only to be told I had sinus infection and meno anxiety. (good grief!)
To make a long story short, I was lucky in the fact that last year I was less than 2 weeks from leaving for mexico & I had a friend get me an appt with a doctor down there. She turned out to be a life saver. Not only is she a leading cardiologist, but she's also an internist and when I sat down and she asked what was wrong, all it took was for me to hold up my hands for her to see the shaking. Missy, she knew instantly I was hyperthyroid.
This year when I went back, I was a bit worse, though I actually felt better. (which can be common). I knew I needed an increase in my Tapazole because my eyes were jumping (that was my only clue). Much to my surprise she also showed me I had something called hyper-extended relexes (wow, that was something to behold!), then she told me I had achillies...something, and another common problem in hyper....wasting muscles & joint inflamation. Did I know I had all that - nope. Yes, I knew my joints and muscles hurt, but I put it down to getting older, but that wasn't the case.
And another bit of luck? Because mexico physicians believe in combining supplements with medications, she not only increased my tapazole, she also handed me a list of additional things I was to take. However, like I said, I was on vacation and with the strict TSA rules, suffice to say I opted to get them when I got home.
But, there is one thing you may not know...supplements take much longer to help than a script med. In my case, most of my supplements will take several months until I notice a difference. Several are amino acids, and I also need a large amount of Omega. On the other hand, I have to avoid iodine but increase the copper I consume. Do you know how hard it is to find a multi-vit that doesn't contain 100% recommended iodine?? (sheez!) But, GNC has it. (they also have the other too - the one that contains iodine).
She also told me to watch what I eat because some foods inhibit thyroid function and others stimulate it. I need foods that surpress it, so I was told to cut down on coffee (it stimulates), black teas, chocolate (that ain't gonna happen) etc. and to eat lots of green veggies. Unfortunately, I have IBS and can't eat greens or it will cause a flare-up, but the powder vit. I'm using has the greens in it, just in powder form that is quickly absorbed and my digestive tract doesn't have to deal with it. I believe the powder was something like 20 bucks and it's enough for a month. (it even comes with a shaker/sippy cup and blender ball so it stirs up well). I take it after my evening meal and the only additional things I take are what I need more of - amino acids and more omega. (I've cut out at least 4 different supps by using this vit formula - so it's actually cheaper to use)
My suggestion - if the doctor won't help you figure out what you need (by way of supps), take your lab test out to GNC and let them help you. (that is, after you get the lab results and know what you need the most). They have an amazing amount of knowledge and should be able to help you get just what you need. Then all you need is patience. (that's the hard part) I've even switched to a homeopath sinus decongestant because neither hypo nor hyper people can take OTC sinus relievers anymore. Granted it's more expensive than OTC's, but it works and it's all natural.
And Missy, don't beat up on yourself. You didn't do anything to make your body revolt - your hormones did. So, it's ok! I know you feel awful, but you will get better. Your doctor seems to suspect it's your thyroid and that's a big step because most overlook it. So hang in there. If he doesn't mention what supplements you need YOU bring it up. The best form of action is working with the doctor. If he knows you're willing to go the extra mile, he/she may be quite happy to work with you.
I'm in your corner kid...!
Tay
Could you tell me the name of the powder supplement you take that doesn't bother you're digestive system? I can't eat fruit or vegetables. Maybe I could tolerate this. Thank You
Thanks, Tay. Once my iodine tests and hormone tests are done, I'm hoping my doctor will help me with a plan of action.
Best,
Missy
Best,
Missy
Morning Girls!
Ok Kackle (love your name by the way - (grin) What I get at GNC is called "Women's Ultra Mega Maximum Nutrition Formula) (I get the chocolate flavored) When you turn the canister around you'll see what all is in it. Under one section called 'Antioxident Fruit & Vegetable Powders' I think I counted something like 25 different fruits and veggies - everything from plum powder to beet juice powder. As I said, the one I buy does not contain iodine, but there's another formula that does - so either way, you still get everything you need. Kackle, I will tell you it does cause gas at the start - (that lasted about a week), but I took Beano and was fine.
Now...according to the directions, you're to use 2 scoops after 1 meal a day - however, they told me out there, if it caused 'issues' until I got use to it, I could use it twice a day - one scoop after breakfast or lunch and another scoop after dinner to decrease the chances of problems. (so don't worry if you get a little gassy at the start, it will pass)
It really is amazing what all they have in there - even contains 1000% mg of calcium (100% of what is recommended) so I discounted my calcium along with several others I was taking. Anyway, drop by a GNC and check it out. It may be just what you're looking for - or maybe not, but it's worth having a look at.
BTW - to be perfectly blunt....the one thing I noticed right way with this stuff, was that I wasn't peeing it out. Know what I mean?? Some of the vits I was taking I knew I was losing a great part of because they weren't being absorbed quick enough so they got processed out my kidneys, making my pee really yellow. That isn't happening with this mix, so I know what I'm taking is staying in my body. YEAH!
And Missy - good luck with your doctor tomorrow - let me know the outcome - ok?? Hang in there!
Many Hugs
Tay
Ok Kackle (love your name by the way - (grin) What I get at GNC is called "Women's Ultra Mega Maximum Nutrition Formula) (I get the chocolate flavored) When you turn the canister around you'll see what all is in it. Under one section called 'Antioxident Fruit & Vegetable Powders' I think I counted something like 25 different fruits and veggies - everything from plum powder to beet juice powder. As I said, the one I buy does not contain iodine, but there's another formula that does - so either way, you still get everything you need. Kackle, I will tell you it does cause gas at the start - (that lasted about a week), but I took Beano and was fine.
Now...according to the directions, you're to use 2 scoops after 1 meal a day - however, they told me out there, if it caused 'issues' until I got use to it, I could use it twice a day - one scoop after breakfast or lunch and another scoop after dinner to decrease the chances of problems. (so don't worry if you get a little gassy at the start, it will pass)
It really is amazing what all they have in there - even contains 1000% mg of calcium (100% of what is recommended) so I discounted my calcium along with several others I was taking. Anyway, drop by a GNC and check it out. It may be just what you're looking for - or maybe not, but it's worth having a look at.
BTW - to be perfectly blunt....the one thing I noticed right way with this stuff, was that I wasn't peeing it out. Know what I mean?? Some of the vits I was taking I knew I was losing a great part of because they weren't being absorbed quick enough so they got processed out my kidneys, making my pee really yellow. That isn't happening with this mix, so I know what I'm taking is staying in my body. YEAH!
And Missy - good luck with your doctor tomorrow - let me know the outcome - ok?? Hang in there!
Many Hugs
Tay
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