Thyroid Stimulating Hormone
TSH
Description
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) test checks how much TSH is in your blood. This hormone helps your thyroid decide when to release other hormones that control your energy and balance. Doctors often use this test to see if your thyroid is working too much or too little, or to find out if your treatment is working. A small blood sample is tested to see if your TSH is within the normal range. High TSH levels usually indicate an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), while low levels may suggest an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). The results help your doctor understand your thyroid health and adjust your treatment, whether that’s medication or lifestyle changes. This test is especially helpful for people with symptoms like fatigue, weight fluctuations, or an irregular heartbeat. Regular TSH testing can help manage thyroid health and keep your overall well-being on track.
Procedure
Invasive
Sample Type
Blood – Serum
Test Category
Hormones
Procedure Category
Blood Draw
Units
Micro-International Units Per Milliliter
Test Groups
Basic Thyroid Group: This group includes essential tests for evaluating thyroid function and detecting common thyroid disorders. Complete Metabolic Group: A comprehensive suite of tests designed to evaluate metabolic function, offering detailed insights into various aspects of metabolism and associated health conditions. Complete Thyroid Group: A comprehensive array of tests for a thorough evaluation of thyroid function, providing detailed insights into thyroid health and associated conditions. Female Health Group: A comprehensive array of tests provides insights into various aspects of female health and wellness, aiding in the evaluation and management of overall health for females. Male Health Group: A comprehensive array of tests provides insights into various aspects of male health and wellness, aiding in the evaluation and management of overall health for men.
Optimal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: 0.5–1.0 µIU/mL
SI Unit: Not Applicable
Normal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: 0.45–4.50 µIU/mL
SI Unit: Not Applicable
Results That Differ From The Norm (Direct and Indirect Causes)
Increased levels may indicate:
Aging
Chronic fatigue syndrome
Congenital hypothyroidism (Reduced thyroid function from birth)
Fibromyalgia (Chronic pain and fatigue)
Hashimoto's disease (Autoimmune hypothyroidism)
Iodine deficiency
Medications (such as lithium, amiodarone, interferon-alp...
Key Reasons For Testing
Thyroid Function Assessment: Evaluates TSH levels to determine thyroid gland activity and overall health.
Diagnosis of Thyroid Disorders: Identifies conditions like hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid resistance.
Treatment Monitoring: Tracks TSH to assess and adjust thyroid hormone therapy effectiveness.
Subclinical Dysfunction Screening: Detects early thyroid abnormalities for timely intervention.
Health Status Conditions It May Be Used To Assess
Currently, this test is not directly associated with any conditions listed on the Health Status page. However, it may be included as part of a broader set of tests linked to specific health conditions.
Some Prominent Medical Labs That May Offer This Test
Please note that this particular test has not been associated with any of the listed prominent medical labs. We recommend enquiring with your private physician or nearest hospital to determine where this specific test can be performed.
References
Important Note
Any medical procedure yielding results outside the norm may be directly or indirectly linked to the conditions outlined on this page. Various factors, including genetics, medication and supplement usage, recent illnesses, pregnancy, pre-test eating, smoking, and stress, can impact the test's outcome. Additionally, factors like false positives, false negatives, inaccurate analyses, and others can influence results.
Reference ranges, which help healthcare professionals interpret medical tests, may vary depending on age, gender, and other factors. They may also differ between laboratories due to variations in instruments and methods used. Optimal ranges are designed for preventive purposes, aiming to identify trends and potential risks early, while normal ranges reflect conventional laboratory values indicating no current disease or pathology. Your healthcare practitioner may have specific reasons for testing that deviate from the usual or may interpret results differently based on individual circumstances. Proper interpretation typically involves considering clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Hence, it is crucial to provide your healthcare professionals with a comprehensive medical history, consult with them for result interpretation, and follow their guidance for potential re-testing or additional diagnostics.
Disclaimer
This content is provided solely for informative and educational purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. Regarding the interpretation of their medical test results and/or specific health questions, it is recommended that all readers and viewers consult their physicians or other qualified health professionals. The publisher is not responsible for any adverse health effects that may result from reading or following the information in this educational content. Before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program, all viewers, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physician or health care practitioner.
Please note that while prominent lab names are included in this content, we cannot guarantee that these labs offer all the tests mentioned. For confirmation, individuals should contact the labs directly or consult their medical practitioners. The information provided reflects general knowledge at the time of publication and may not include recent updates or emerging research. Readers should verify details with qualified professionals to ensure the most up-to-date and accurate guidance.
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