The TSH test is a common test that helps find out whether the thyroid gland is working in full or not. This test also helps tell you whether the thyroid gland is overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism). The test can also detect a thyroid disorder before any symptoms appear, in the “Check yourself” series, we learn about the importance of the TSH test and its uses, according to the website webmed
TSH Means “thyroid stimulating hormone” and the test measures how much of this hormone in the blood is produced TSH By the pituitary gland in your brain, this gland tells the thyroid gland to secrete thyroid hormones and release them into the blood.
the test
Includes test TSH Simply withdraw some blood from your body and then the blood is analyzed in a lab. This test can be done at any time during the day. No need to prepare like fasting. You should not feel any pain other than a small prick of a needle in your arm. You may have some light bruising.
In general, there is no need to stop taking the drug before checking the level TSH However, it is important to tell your doctor about the medications you are taking because some medications can affect thyroid function For example, your thyroid function should be monitored if you are taking lithium, while taking lithium, there is a good chance that your thyroid may stop In order to function properly, it is recommended to perform a level test TSH Before starting this medication, if your levels are normal, you may have your levels checked every 6 to 12 months, as recommended by your doctor.
If your thyroid function becomes abnormal, you should be treated with medication.
High levels of TSH
Levels go down TSH Typically between 0.4 and 4.0 milliliters per liter (mU / L), according to the American Thyroid Association, ranges will vary between laboratories with the upper limit generally being 4 to 5, if your level is higher than this, you are more likely to have hypothyroidism. T3 And T4 In pregnancy, levels decrease TSH.
Low levels of TSH
It is also possible for the test reading to appear at lower than normal levels of TSH An overactive thyroid gland may be due to:
- Graves’ disease (the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid gland)
- Too much iodine in your body
- Too many thyroid hormone drugs
- Lots of natural supplements that contain thyroid hormone
If you take medications such as stimulants, dopamine, or opioid painkillers (such as morphine), you may get a lower reading than usual Taking biotin (vitamin B supplements) can also lower hormone levels TSH Incorrectly.