What is a Thyroid Function Test? How is it done? What are the tests to check your thyroid gland? Everything you should know, in this post and of course our doctors are always there to help you. Just fill in your details in the form above and we will answer all your questions for FREE!
This test measures the series of blood tests of the thyroid gland. It is used to measure the amount of thyroid-stimulating hormones (TSH), thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) in the blood.
TSH stands for thyroid-stimulating hormone also known as thyrotropin. It is a hormone that controls the function of the thyroid gland. It acts as a messenger to the thyroid gland. The pituitary gland produces TSH. It stimulates the production of three thyroid hormones:
T4:
It is a type of thyroid hormone, also known as thyroxine. It regulates the metabolism. Thyroxine plays an important role in muscle function, digestion, and bone development. There are two forms of the T4 hormone in the blood:
Normal levels of total T4 in adults: 5-12 mcg/dl
T3:
It is a hormone called triiodothyronine (T3). The T3 test is done to diagnose the thyroid problem called hyperthyroidism. There are two forms of the T3 hormone:
These are the expected levels of TSH according to age.
The TSH levels fluctuate throughout the pregnancy. This test is essential for people who are pregnant to have a normal amount of TSH and thyroid hormones to ensure the healthy development of their babies.
The normal TSH levels during pregnancy include:
This test is done to check the various conditions :
The increased levels of TSH indicate hypothyroidism. When the thyroid gland does not produce an adequate amount of hormones, then the pituitary gland produces more TSH to compensate. The thyroid gland produces too little T4 and slows down the metabolism.
The symptoms of hypothyroidism may include:
The low levels of TSH indicate hyperthyroidism. It is also known as an overactive thyroid. The thyroid gland produces too much T4 (thyroxine) and speeds up the metabolism. If the thyroid gland is secreting more levels of hormones that are high, then the pituitary gland produces less TSH.
The symptoms of hyperthyroidism may include:
For more information, you can visit Healthline and Testing.com.
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