Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Test (TSH thyroid test)

It is a simple blood test which measures TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) levels in blood. Thyroid stimulating hormone is an important hormone secreted by the pituitary gland (in the brain) into the bloodstream. Abnormal levels of this hormone can have a profound effect on various organs and their functioning.

TSH is also called thyrotrophin. After its release into the blood stream, it binds to receptors on the thyroid gland (butterfly shaped gland, present at the bottom of your throat). The thyroid gland then secretes optimum amounts of thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) into bloodstream. If the optimum amount of these two hormones is reached, they send negative feedback to the pituitary to stop secreting TSH.

These hormones have an effect on various body functions such as brain, heart, metabolism, bone, digestion, temperature regulation, mood, muscle strength etc.

A high level of TSH (with/without low T4 and T3) results in hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland). It presents as: weight gain, constipation, hair loss, dry skin, slow heart rate, fatigue

Low levels of TSH (with /without high T4 and T3) results in hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland). It presents as: weight loss, rapid heart rate, anxiety, bulging eyes, insomnia, hand tremors.

Why is the TSH thyroid test prescribed?

Your healthcare provider may ask for this test in following situations:

As a part of routine health check up to look for thyroid gland functioning
If there are symptoms of hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism as mentioned previously
To monitor response of treatment of above-mentioned conditions
Detects abnormal levels during pregnancy which can have adverse effects on foetus.

What are the components of thyroid stimulating hormone test?

An abnormal TSH report does not tell the cause of this abnormality. Further tests are required like T4, T3, which together are called the Thyroid Function Test (TFT) or Free T3 & Free T4 (Free TFT).

Procedure and Prerequisites

The sample for thyroid stimulating hormone test is taken from blood by inserting a small needle into the vein of your arm. A small amount of blood is then collected in a test tube or vial. You may feel little pain due to needle prick. You may resume your daily activities immediately. No particular preparation is needed for this test. Certain medications can have an effect on thyroid function so consult your doctor before taking this test. You must check the thyroid test price at the lab near you and if they provide the facility to collect the sample to do thyroid test at home.

Reference Range

Normal range-0.5-5.0 milli-international units per litre (mIU/L)

Reference range may vary from lab to lab.

Thyroid test price may vary from lab to lab. You can conveniently have a thyroid test done at your home by requesting someone from the lab to collect the sample.

Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Test (TSH Thyroid Test) in Mangalore

T0086

Daily

No Special Preparation Required

24 Hours

₹220

Parameters

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