What Causes Constipation In A Person With An Elevated TSH Level In Blood?

Posted on Tue, 13 Oct 2015

Question: Hi.
Around the middle of August, my t4 level was 13 and my tsh was 5.8.

6 months previous my tsh was 9 and my t4 read 12.

I have gained 1 stone in a month and am constipatedbut my doctor wont put me on any tablets. I was after a second opinion?

Answered by Dr. Shehzad Topiwala (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Thyroid

Detailed Answer:
I follow your point.

There are published reports that indicate the benefit of treating this condition. Although the TSH is not impressively elevated, it is important to run some more tests to see if treatment with a medication called levo thyroxine is warranted to help you feel better in terms of losing weight and relieving the constipation.

When I see someone like you in my practice, I order the following tests in addition to a thorough physical examination:
CBC
Electrolytes
Liver function tests
Kidney function tests
Lipid profile
anti TPO (Thyroid Peroxidase) antibodies
anti Thyroglobulin antibodies

If either of the antibodies is positive, then a case for treatment can be made even more strongly

Note: For more information on hormonal imbalance symptoms or unmanaged diabetes with other comorbid conditions, get back to us & Consult with an Endocrinologist. Click here to book an appointment.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar