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Raised TSH with normal thyroid hormone

Raised TSH with normal free T4 is often called subclinical hypothyroidism. It does not always mean the thyroid is permanently underactive: the result may be temporary and many people have no symptoms. Repeat testing and assessment in the individual's context prevent unnecessary treatment.

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Raised TSH with normal free T4 is often called subclinical hypothyroidism. It does not always mean the thyroid is permanently underactive: the result may be temporary and many people have no symptoms. Repeat testing and assessment in the individual's context prevent unnecessary treatment.

  • No symptoms; raised TSH is often found incidentally during blood tests.
  • Fatigue, feeling cold or reduced energy, symptoms that also have many other causes.
  • Do not start iodine, kelp, thyroid extract or online hormone products yourself; too much can actually disrupt thyroid function.
  • If you take levothyroxine, take it consistently each day and keep the agreed interval from food, iron and calcium.
  • Make an appointment to discuss unexpectedly raised TSH alongside free T4, symptoms, medicines and previous results.
  • For urgent GP care outside normal opening hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediately life-threatening situation.

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