Question:
Has anyone had to get a TSH test?

I was reading on a WLS surgeons site and it was mentioned that if you have Hypothyroidism, it could be a cause of sudden death after surgery. Scary stuff! Does anyone know about this?    — Laurie LOVES her DS (posted on October 24, 2002)

October 24, 2002
Hi Laura. I have a very extreme hypothyroidism and BTC did check my TSH. I don't know if they do it routinely or just if you have a history, but I'm sure your doctor would check this if you request it. The TSH is regulated by medications in persons with a problem and the lab test will tell them if your dose needs adjusted.
   — Deborah R.

October 24, 2002
It is a thyroid test. GHI would not approve surgery w/o this test. My score came out exactly on the norm so they approved it with no further problem.
   — Steve B.

October 25, 2002
I am Hypo. It took a long time for my level to get normal. By the time I had my preops my level was normal. Since surgery 12/11/01, the doctor has had to decrease my doseage twice. I think that is a good thing. I would have thought my surgeon would have mentioned an additional risk of being Hypo if there was.
   — bbjnay

October 26, 2002
Thank you everyone for your answers. I have not been diagnosed with thyroid disease. Possibly this is a routine screening for my surgeon? By the way, the webpage that I was reading that stated that hypothyroidism could cause sudden death is here: http://www.wlshelp.com/faqs.asp#2
   — Laurie LOVES her DS