What kind of doctor should I see to be tested?

[Dimple_Flirt]

Do I go to a General practitioner or a Specialist to be tested for thyroid issues?And can you go to a specialist with out a referral,I don't have insurance and would hate to pay a doctor just to refer me . I'm gaining weight have mind fog,Cold all the time,extremely tired,have dry skin and my joints hurt esp the elbows and shoulders and skipping monthly's.

[Desertthorn]

If your concerned I would go to a GP, as those symptoms might be anything. I have recently been diagnosed with Thyroid cancer and I have none of those symptoms. Doctors who deal with thyroids are called endocrinologists and usually they only see you with a referral

[GCC]

A Gp is fine, or even an OB/Gyn.
Key is to get the correct test done on blood drawn at the right time of the day.
The correct time of day: early morning- do not have a TSH done on blood drawn later in the day.

TSH: optimal is a low number around 1.0 (or at least below 2.0).

FREE T4, this is an actual thyroid hormone. Optimal for that is the middle to UPPPER part of the 'normal range', NOT the lower part of 'normal'.
Always ask for copie of your lab reports.
Don't settle for being told your levels are fine.
There are new 'normal ranges' and many labs and doctors still don't use them. Good luck.