Importance of the thyroid gland
The thyroid gland is about two inches long and lies on either side of the windpipe. It seems tiny, doesn’t it? But this tiny gland produces the hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which are absolutely critical for the proper functioning of your body.
It controls metabolic processes in the body, for instance, your heart rate, blood pressure, and even body weight. If this little gland begins to malfunction – becoming underactive or overactive – you can develop hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, respectively.
More than 42 million Indians are affected by a malfunctioning thyroid. But once diagnosed, thyroid disorders can be treated, which is why thyroid function tests are important.
What is a thyroid function test? And what do the results mean?
Thyroid function tests are blood tests done to evaluate the working of the thyroid gland. The types of thyroid tests are T3, TSH, and T4.
T4 or thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) tests is a broad thyroid function test. If the results come back abnormal, a doctor usually orders further tests to understand the underlying problem.
The TSH test is often done first because it’s the best way to determine thyroid function initially. It determines hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
The TSH test measures the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone in your blood. The normal thyroid function test range of TSH equals 0.4-4.0 milli-international units of hormone per litre of blood (mIU/L).
The T4 test is otherwise known as the thyroxine test. In the thyroid test results chart, a high level of T4 indicates hyperthyroidism.
Interpretation of thyroid function tests
A TSH reading above 4.5 mIU/L indicates hypothyroidism and/or risk of hypothyroidism.
Both T4 and TSH tests are routinely performed on newborns to see if the thyroid gland is underactive.
If T4 tests show elevation, then the T3 test is ordered to check the triiodothyronine hormone levels. Excessive amounts of T3 indicate Grave’s disease, which is an autoimmune disorder. In the thyroid function test interpretation, low T3 levels indicate hypothyroidism.
The thyroid function test normal values for total T4 levels in adults range from 5.0 to 12.0 μg/dL. A normal total T3 level in adults ranges from 80-220 ng/dL.
T3 test results are often compared with T4 and TSH test results to help diagnose thyroid disease.
How do you know you need a TSH test?
Doctors may ask you to take a TSH test if your symptoms indicate abnormal levels of thyroid hormone in your blood.
Symptoms of excessive thyroid hormone include:
• Weight loss
• Rapid heartbeat
• Irregular heartbeat
• Nervousness
• Irritability
• Trouble sleeping
• Fatigue
• Muscle weakness
• Sweating
• Frequent bowel movements
• Goiter
Symptoms of insufficient production of thyroid hormone include:
• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Sensitivity to cold
• Muscle pain
• Joint aches
• Dry skin
• Thinning hair
• Irregular menstrual periods
• Depression
• Constipation
What can affect the results of thyroid function tests?
• Studies show that time of day and fasting can affect the thyroid test result chart. For example, if tests are done in the early morning after overnight fasting, they may exhibit higher TSH levels compared to a test done later in the day and with no fasting.
• Lifestyle-related issues such as stress, lack of sleep, diet, and the menstrual cycle may also affect the thyroid test results.
• Certain medications may alter your TSH levels. Medications such as Lithobid (lithium), Pacerone (amiodarone), and Iodine or kelp supplements are reported to affect thyroid test results.
Conclusion
Most thyroid problems are not life-threatening, but they can cause a variety of complications, including fatigue, weight gain or loss, hair loss, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating. If you suspect you have a thyroid problem, it’s important to see a doctor and get a thyroid function test done. There are many treatments available that can help you manage the symptoms and live a normal, healthy life.
Maintaining your thyroid function may require you to take specific medications. Often, some medicines are difficult to source at your local stores. With Medkart, you can find generic medicines at the best prices at your convenience. Visit the Medkart website today to know more!
FAQs
1. Does the thyroid test need fasting?
No, you don’t need special preparations like fasting for a thyroid function test.
2. What are the symptoms of hyperthyroidism?
Nervousness, irritability, anxiety, mood swings, muscle weakness, difficulty sleeping, and diarrhoea are some of the symptoms of an overactive thyroid.
3. Can I drink water before the thyroid test?
Yes, you can have water before a thyroid function test. In fact, there are no restrictions in terms of water or food before a thyroid function test.
4. What foods are good for the thyroid?
Salted nuts such as macadamia and hazelnuts are good sources of selenium, which supports thyroid functioning. Baked fish, dairy products like yoghurt and cottage cheese, and eggs are also recommended.
5. What food should be avoided if I have thyroid problems?
If you have thyroid problems, you should avoid eating foods that contain goitrogens, such as broccoli and cabbage. You should also avoid eating soy products, as they can also interfere with the functioning of your thyroid gland.
