As part of the endocrine system, our thyroid gland controls many bodily functions. In this article, we will explore thyroid health and delve into why thyroid test are crucial for diagnosing and managing thyroid disorders.
Each part of our body relies on the other to function properly. From the heart to the brain, lungs, bones, intestines, and adrenal glands, each serves a specific purpose, critical for the body to survive and work efficiently. One such important gland, located at the base of the neck, is the thyroid. Like any other endocrine gland, the thyroid produces and releases essential substances that regulate a wide range of functions in our body. This gland is essentially responsible for producing primary thyroid hormones – namely Triiodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxine (T4). The production and release of these hormones are regulated by the pituitary gland in the brain, which secretes Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH).
The most important role of these hormones is to regulate the body's growth, development and metabolic rate. Thyroid hormones are also responsible for regulating:
Brain development
Digestive function
Muscle strength
Heart rate
Body temperature
Breathing
Nervous system
Menstrual cycles
Triggered by TSH, the thyroid needs to produce just the right amount of T3 and T4 hormones for these functions to happen efficiently. Any disorder in the thyroid can lead it to either release too much hormone (Hyperthyroidism) or too little (Hypothyroidism), which can cause a wide range of consequences.
Thyroid Disorder & Tests
Thyroid problems have affected millions worldwide. Abnormal thyroid can cause a range of problems, such as drastic changes in weight, energy, digestion, or mood. Thus it becomes important to learn to recognise signs of thyroid disorder to receive proper treatment before the condition worsen.
Symptoms may include -
Fatigue
Low energy levels.
Unexpected weight loss/ gain.
Muscle weakness or joint pain.
Irregular Menstrual cycles.
Irregular heart rate.
Goitre, a condition of visibly enlarged thyroid gland.
Thyroid tests are critical in determining the thyroid gland's overall health and function. These tests help healthcare professionals accurately diagnose thyroid disorders by determining the levels of T3, T4, and TSH in the blood.
TSH is the very first thyroid test that a doctor will order. It is used to screen for both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism conditions. A TSH test can detect thyroid abnormalities, but it cannot determine the cause of those abnormalities. Depending on the results of the tests, your healthcare provider may order T3 and T4 tests to properly evaluate the condition and suggest treatment accordingly.
Generally, the normal range of
TSH tests are 0.34 - 5.6 µIU/mL,
T4 is 0.58 - 1.64 ng/dL, and
T3 is 2.6 - 4.2 pg/mL
These levels may differ from lab to lab and may even be affected by age and prior medical history. The best course of action post getting results is to consult your doctor for a better prognosis.
Thyroid tests can be performed at any healthcare centre or ordered online. Some healthcare facilities even offer a home sample pick-up for thyroid tests at a nominal price.
Ways to Promote Thyroid Health
Thyroid is a common condition and one that can affect anyone at any age. Some ways you can keep your thyroid healthy are:
Regular iodine intake
Proper diet
Regular Exercising
Cut back on sugar
Managing stress
The thyroid is a crucial gland that affects many aspects of the body. Though thyroid disease or abnormality is very common, it can be easily treated with early diagnosis and proper care.