What does a TSH of 10 mean?
A TSH of 10 mIU/L or above means an underactive thyroid that is usually treated, even when free T4 is still in range. Ten is the line most guidelines use.
Treatment is levothyroxine, a daily tablet that replaces the hormone, started low and adjusted by repeating the TSH every six to eight weeks until it settles in range. Most people feel the difference within a month or two.
A TSH in the twenties or higher means the thyroid has been underactive for a while. It is still not an emergency, but it is a result to act on this month.
Source: NIDDK, thyroid tests
See a doctor promptly if
- Drowsiness, confusion or slow breathing in someone known to have an underactive thyroid. This needs emergency care.
- Very low body temperature with slowed thinking and extreme tiredness
- A resting heart rate under 50 beats per minute with dizziness or fainting
- New neck swelling, trouble swallowing, or a hoarse voice lasting over three weeks
- A high TSH found during pregnancy or while trying to conceive
- New chest pain or a racing heartbeat after starting thyroid hormone replacement
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Answered by the AskDoc Medical Team · Medically reviewed under our Medical Director, MBBS · How we review
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