Blood work question

[Who'sThere 331]

I need to have my thyroid rechecked, but I have a hard time getting to the doctor before work. Does anyone know if this is a test that requires fasting, or can it be done anytime? If I could go after work, that would be great. I can't call the doctor during work to find out. I'm a teacher and I have meetings during my planning time for the next several days. By the time I get back into town (work out of town) his office is closed.

Thanks in advance for help with this question.

[Bratty_Nicole 0]

Yes, I am pretty sure that you have to fast for 12 hours before your appointment. I would call your doctor though and just explain the situation to them. Is there someplace that you can go to on Saturday to have your blood drawn? My husband had to have some tests ran and he works 12+ hours a day. Here in CO we have Qwest Diagnostics (they process all the blood samples that doctor offices pull patients blood for testing) and he just got a referral to them from the doctor, they took care of him early Saturday morning.

Just a suggestion. :redface:

[DebinFL 0]

I have thyroid tests done on a regular basis and do not have to fast for them. Make sure they are testing T3 & T4 as well as TSH to get a total picture of how your thyroid is doing. I do have to fast if they are checking cholesterol or glucose levels.

[CMTurner 0]

Deb is correct. I have been having blood drawn for almost 20 yrs checking my thyroid and she is correct about having them check your T3 and T4. Lucky me, I also have thyroid antibodies which is such fun. Good luck with everything.

[Jodi_620 37]

My Endo prefers fasting but will do it later in the day. He just notes what I had eaten that day and what time...

[kjhack 3]

No fasting required. I have been drawing blood for 13 years. Never had a doctor send me someone with a thyroid test and make them fast. I agree with the other person definately need a t3 and a free t4 done for a truer picture of the thyroid's function. Good luck. Kelli

[Who'sThere 331]

Thanks to all. I knew I would get some answers on here. My husband called today (he's home after knee surgery) and they said I do not have to fast. I will go after work tomorrow.

However, the script is only for TSH. I'll have to ask about T3 and T4. I don't recall ever having those done, and I just check my results from my last "big" work up, and they weren't on there.

Thanks again.