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How to test the functionality of your thyroid gland?

Learn about the various tests that can be performed to test the functionality of your thyroid gland. By regularly testing your thyroid gland, you can maintain your overall health by ikecohen
Estimated reading time: 2 min 55 sec
How to test the functionality of your thyroid gland? Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels

The thyroid gland plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of hormones in your body. It is responsible for the production of thyroid hormones that regulate your metabolism, body temperature, heart rate, and energy levels.

When your thyroid gland is not working properly, it can cause a variety of health problems, ranging from weight gain to heart disease. Therefore, it is important to test the functionality of your thyroid gland regularly. In this article, we will discuss some of the best ways to test the functionality of your thyroid gland.

1. Blood Tests

Blood tests are the most common way to test the functionality of your thyroid gland. Your doctor will order a blood test to measure the levels of two hormones produced by your thyroid gland – T3 and T4.

They will also measure the levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which is produced by the pituitary gland and regulates the production of T3 and T4. If the levels of T3 and T4 are too low, and the levels of TSH are too high, it could indicate an underactive thyroid gland. If the levels of T3 and T4 are too high, and the levels of TSH are too low, it could indicate an overactive thyroid gland.

Your doctor may also order other blood tests to help diagnose thyroid problems, such as autoimmune disorders.

2. Physical Examination

Your doctor may perform a physical examination to check if your thyroid gland is enlarged or tender. They will ask you to tilt your head back and swallow a sip of water. This will make your thyroid gland move up and down, making it easier to examine.

During the examination, your doctor will feel for bumps or nodules on your thyroid gland. They may also test your reflexes and muscle strength, as some thyroid problems can affect these functions.

3. Ultrasound

Ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging test that uses sound waves to create images of your thyroid gland. An ultrasound can help your doctor determine the size and shape of your thyroid gland, and look for any abnormalities, such as nodules or cysts.

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Your doctor may also use ultrasound to guide a biopsy of your thyroid gland, to check for cancerous or pre-cancerous cells.

4. Radioactive Iodine Uptake Test

The radioactive iodine uptake test is a nuclear imaging test that measures how much iodine your thyroid gland takes up from the bloodstream. Your thyroid gland needs iodine to produce thyroid hormones.

During the test, you will swallow a small amount of radioactive iodine, and your thyroid gland will absorb it. After a few hours, your doctor will use a special scanner to measure how much radioactive iodine is in your thyroid gland. This test can help diagnose thyroid problems, such as hyperthyroidism.

5. Biopsy

A biopsy is a test that involves taking a small sample of tissue from your thyroid gland to analyze it for abnormalities, such as cancerous or pre-cancerous cells.

Your doctor may use ultrasound to guide a fine needle into your thyroid gland to collect the sample. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. Biopsy is usually recommended if blood tests or ultrasound show abnormalities in your thyroid gland.

Conclusion

Testing the functionality of your thyroid gland is important to maintain your overall health. If you are experiencing any symptoms of thyroid problems, such as fatigue, weight gain, or hair loss, consult your doctor.

They may order one or more of the tests we have discussed to diagnose your condition and recommend a treatment plan.

Disclaimer: This article serves as general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Individual circumstances may vary.

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