TSH can be thought of as the metaphorical “engine” of the thyroid gland, in that it determines the amount of thyroid hormone that is synthesized and then released from the thyroid into the body. A normal value for TSH is between 0. 5 – 5. 0 mIU/L. [2] X Research source If your TSH is in this range, that is a good sign; however, a normal TSH value does not completely rule out thyroid problems. TSH values on the high end of normal can indicate potential thyroid problems that are evolving. Most thyroid problems require two or more tests to detect and diagnose, given the complex interplay of the various hormones that contribute to thyroid function. Your doctor may order more tests, even if your TSH is normal, if he still suspects that you may have a thyroid problem.
Thus, a high TSH may be a sign of hypothyroidism (a condition in which your thyroid gland is producing insufficient amounts of hormones). [5] X Trustworthy Source National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Health information from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, a division of the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source You will need further testing, however, to further investigate and to confirm such a diagnosis.
Increased cold sensitivity Fatigue Unexplained weight gain Unusually dry skin Constipation Muscle aches and stiffness Joint pain and swelling Depression and/or other mood changes A slower than normal heart rate Thinning hair Changes to your menstrual cycle Slowed thinking or speaking
Again, further blood tests will be required to confirm such a diagnosis. A TSH reading alone can point your physician down a certain path, but in itself it is usually not diagnostic.
Again, further blood tests will be required to confirm such a diagnosis. A TSH reading alone can point your physician down a certain path, but in itself it is usually not diagnostic.
Again, further blood tests will be required to confirm such a diagnosis. A TSH reading alone can point your physician down a certain path, but in itself it is usually not diagnostic.
A faster than normal heart rate Unexplained weight loss Increased appetite Sweating A tremor, often in your hands Anxiety, irritability, and/or other mood changes Fatigue More frequent bowel movements An enlarged thyroid gland (which can be felt in your neck, and is called a “goiter”) Trouble sleeping Eyes that bulge or protrude more than they normally do (this sign is present in a certain type of hyperthyroidism called Grave’s disease — specifically, the eye abnormality is called “Grave’s ophthalmopathy”)
The treatment for hypothyroid and hyperthyroid conditions are very different. The target range for thyroid treatment is normally a TSH between 0. 5. –5. 0 mIU/L, although this may vary depending upon the type of thyroid disorder you have. You will likely receive more frequent monitoring at the start of your treatment, until you settle into a routine where your TSH becomes quite consistent (at which point less frequent monitoring may be appropriate, usually about once every 12 months).
The exact numbers may vary depending on the lab and the specific form of test that is performed. However, most laboratory results have, next to your reading, a designated normal range so that you can easily see whether your T4 is low, normal, or elevated.
As previously mentioned, the results are best interpreted in conjunction with the TSH value and under the guidance of the medical professional.
As previously mentioned, the results are best interpreted in conjunction with the TSH value and under the guidance of the medical professional.
As previously mentioned, the results are best interpreted in conjunction with the TSH value and under the guidance of the medical professional.
As previously mentioned, the results are best interpreted in conjunction with the TSH value and under the guidance of the medical professional.
As previously mentioned, the results are best interpreted in conjunction with the TSH value and under the guidance of the medical professional.
If the T4 is normal but the TSH is low, a high T3 can confirm the diagnosis of hyperthyroidism. While the T3 can provide valuable information in diagnosing hyperthyroidism, it does not help to diagnose hypothyroidism. Free T3 is normally between 130-450 pg/dL. [15] X Trustworthy Source University of California San Francisco Health Center Research hospital associated with UCSF, a leading medical university, providing innovative patient care and public health resources Go to source Again, the exact numbers may vary depending on the lab and the specific form of test that is performed. Most laboratory results have, next to your reading, a designated normal range so that you can easily see whether your T3 is low, normal, or elevated.
Ordering your own tests can be very dangerous and often lead to misguided treatment. You would not try to fix an engine if you did not have training — this is no different.
Thyroid antibody testing can help to differentiate between types of thyroiditis and also autoimmune conditions of the thyroid. TPO (thyroid peroxidase antibody) may be elevated in autoimmune thyroid conditions such as Grave’s Disease or Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. TG (thyroglobulin antibody) may also be elevated in Grave’s Disease or Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. TSHR (TSH receptor antibodies) may be elevated in Grave’s Disease.
A thyroid ultrasound may be used to identify thyroid nodules. If any nodules are found, the ultrasound can provide insight as to whether they are solid or cystic (fluid-filled) nodules, both of which are require different modes of treatment. Ultrasound can also be used to monitor any growth or changes to the nodules over time. A thyroid biopsy can take a sample of a suspicious nodule and rule in or rule out the possibility of cancer. An iodine uptake scan can measure which areas of the thyroid are appropriately active (i. e. functional). It can also identify which areas are inactive (non-functional) or hyperactive (excessively functional).
