Thyroid health cannot be overstated. This small, butterfly-shaped gland in the neck plays a crucial role in maintaining the body’s metabolism and energy levels.

When it’s not functioning properly, it can cause a range of serious health problems. Taking regular tests can help you detect any thyroid-related issues before they get out of hand. Here’s a simple test you can take to evaluate your thyroid health.

Thyroid function test

One of the most effective ways to evaluate your thyroid health is by taking a thyroid function test. This test measures the levels of thyroid hormones in your blood, including T3, T4, and TSH.

TSH Levels

TSH stands for thyroid-stimulating hormone. This hormone is produced by the pituitary gland in the brain and plays a critical role in regulating the thyroid gland’s function.

TSH levels are usually the first thing that a doctor will check when evaluating thyroid health. Normal TSH levels typically fall between 0.4 and 4.0 milliinternational units per liter (mIU/L).

Free T3 and T4 Levels

T3 and T4 are the two main thyroid hormones that regulate metabolism and energy levels. Free T3 and T4 levels measure the amount of unbound hormones in the body.

Normal free T3 and T4 levels typically fall between 2.3 and 4.2 picograms per milliliter (pg/mL) and 0.8 and 1.8 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL), respectively.

Other Thyroid Tests

In addition to thyroid function tests, there are other tests that can be done to evaluate thyroid health, including:.

Thyroid Ultrasound

A thyroid ultrasound uses sound waves to produce an image of the thyroid gland. It can help doctors detect any abnormalities in the gland’s size or structure, such as nodules or cysts.

Thyroid Scan

A thyroid scan involves the injection of a small amount of radioactive material into the body, which is then absorbed by the thyroid gland. A special camera is used to produce an image that shows how the gland is absorbing the material.

This test can help doctors detect any abnormalities in the gland’s functioning.

Thyroid Biopsy

A thyroid biopsy involves the removal of a small sample of tissue from the thyroid gland. The tissue is then examined under a microscope to detect any abnormalities, such as cancerous cells.

At-Home Test

There are also at-home tests that can be done to evaluate thyroid health. These tests typically involve measuring body temperature, checking heart rate, and looking for signs of thyroid-related symptoms, such as fatigue, weight gain, or hair loss.

While at-home tests can be helpful, they should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice.

When to Get Tested

If you’re experiencing any symptoms of thyroid problems, such as fatigue, weight gain, or hair loss, talk to your doctor about getting tested.

Additionally, it’s important to get your thyroid function tested if you have a family history of thyroid problems or if you’re pregnant, as thyroid issues can affect fetal development.

Conclusion

Thyroid health is critical to overall well-being, and getting tested regularly can help you detect any issues before they become serious.

If you’re experiencing any symptoms of thyroid problems or have a family history of thyroid issues, talk to your doctor about getting tested. With proper care, you can ensure that your thyroid gland is functioning optimally and maintain good overall health.