A TSH test serves to assess the functioning of your thyroid gland. It determines whether you have hypothyroidism (insufficient thyroid hormone) or hyperthyroidism (excessive thyroid hormone) in your bloodstream.
The thyroid gland, a small gland resembling a butterfly, resides in the neck region and plays a vital role in the endocrine system, which regulates various bodily functions, including development, growth, and mood. The thyroid gland oversees metabolism, the process of converting food into energy for cells. Thyrotropin, also known as TSH, prompts the thyroid gland to produce T4 or thyroxine. T4, once released into the bloodstream, undergoes conversion into triiodothyronine (T3), a more potent hormone. The term “thyroid hormone” encompasses both T3 and T4. Explore further to understand how to evaluate thyroid gland function.
How to Determine If Your Thyroid is Functioning Right?
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Tuesday 04 March 2025
A TSH test is performed to assess the functionality of your thyroid gland. It indicates whether your thyroid gland is operating normally or if there are indications of hyperthyroidism (overactivity) or hypothyroidism (underactivity). Additionally, this test can identify thyroid disorders even before symptoms manifest, allowing for timely intervention. TSH, or thyroid stimulating hormone, is analysed in this test to determine its concentration in the bloodstream. Produced by the pituitary gland in the brain, TSH instructs the thyroid gland to produce and release essential hormones necessary for bodily functions. The TSH test price can vary depending on your choice of diagnostic lab.
When is a TSH Test Ordered?
If you exhibit symptoms indicative of abnormal thyroid hormone levels, a TSH test may be necessary. Hyperthyroidism, characterised by excessive thyroid hormone, accelerates bodily functions, leading to symptoms such as weight loss despite increased appetite, nervousness, rapid heartbeat, insomnia, heat sensitivity, and tremors, amongst others.
Conversely, hypothyroidism, marked by insufficient thyroid hormone, slows down bodily functions, resulting in weight gain, fatigue, cold sensitivity, dry skin and hair, muscle and joint pain, menstrual irregularities, constipation, and depression. A TSH test may also be conducted alongside other assessments to diagnose thyroid abnormalities like non-cancerous nodules or cancerous growths on the thyroid gland.
What are the Ideal TSH Levels?
TSH levels, measured in micro-international units per millilitre (uIU/mL), vary depending on age, with typical ranges for healthy individuals excluding pregnancy outlined as follows:
- Infants up to 5 days old: 0.7-15.2 uIU/mL
- Infants 6-90 days old: 0.72-11.0 uIU/mL
- Babies 4-12 months old: 0.73-8.35 uIU/mL
- Children 1-6 years old: 0.7-5.97 uIU/mL
- Children 7-11 years old: 0.6-4.84 uIU/mL
- Individuals 12-20 years old: 0.51-4.3 uIU/mL
- Adults aged 21-99 years: 0.27-4.2 uIU/mL
During pregnancy, TSH levels undergo fluctuations. Typically, normal TSH levels are observed as follows:
- First trimester: 0.18-2.99 uIU/mL
- Second trimester: 0.11-3.98 uIU/mL
- Third trimester: 0.48-4.71 uIU/mL
Notably, the reference ranges for TSH may slightly differ across various laboratories. Therefore, it’s essential to consult your lab report for the specific reference range provided. Should you have any query regarding your results, don’t hesitate to discuss it with your healthcare provider.
What Do Abnormal TSH Levels Mean?
If your TSH levels are too low, then it likely means your thyroid gland is producing an excess of thyroid hormone, a condition known as hyperthyroidism or an overactive thyroid. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:
- Shaky or anxious feelings
- Rapid heartbeat (palpitations)
- Unexplained weight loss despite increased appetite
- Frequent diarrhoea
- Thin, moist, and warm skin
- Changes in vision or bulging eyes
- Irregular menstrual periods
- Enlargement of the neck caused by an enlarged thyroid gland (goitre)
Conversely, if your TSH levels are too high, then it could indicate that your thyroid gland isn’t producing enough thyroid hormone, known as hypothyroidism or an underactive thyroid. Some of the symptoms of hypothyroidism are:
- Tingling and numbness in the hands
- Fatigue
- Constipation
- Depression
- Unexplained weight gain
- Sensitivity to cold temperatures
- Heavy and frequent menstrual periods
- Decreased libido
While TSH test results can indicate thyroid hormone levels, they don’t provide insights into the underlying cause of high or low levels. If your test results are abnormal, then your healthcare provider may order additional tests to investigate further. These tests may include:
- T3 thyroid hormone test
- T4 thyroid hormone test
- Thyroid antibodies test
All in all, irregular levels of TSH usually indicate a problem with your thyroid gland – either it’s producing too much or too little thyroid hormone. Fortunately, treatment and medication can help manage your thyroid hormone levels and TSH levels. At Apollo 24|7, the TSH test cost is just ₹320. If you have any concerns or questions about your TSH test results, then don’t hesitate to discuss them with your doctor.
