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Our at-home advanced thyroid blood test measures the 3 key thyroid hormones, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Also included in this advanced thyroid test is thyroid antibodies. When suffering with an autoimmune disease, thyroid antibodies can attack your thyroid leading to a thyroid disorder.
The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck. The thyroid gland is responsible for producing hormones (T3 and T4) which play a major role in the body’s metabolism. If too much of these hormones are released into the blood, then the body’s cells work faster than normal causing hyperthyroidism (also known as an overactive thyroid). Hyperthyroidism can be characterised by low TSH levels. Some of the symptoms of an overactive thyroid include weight loss, fatigue, irritability and difficulty sleeping. An overactive thyroid is much more common in women than it is in men and usually occurs between the ages of 20 and 40 years.
An underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough T3 and T4. Hypothyroidism causes high levels of TSH in the blood. Underactive thyroid symptoms can include weight gain, hair loss, forgetfulness and low mood.
Poor thyroid function can also be a result of a deficiency or an autoimmune disorder – where the body’s immune system attacks its own cells. Although, it may require medical intervention to restore its function, changes to diet and lifestyle can be beneficial in helping to cope with the condition.
It is advisable not to check thyroid levels during times of illness as thyroid function blood tests may not be accurate during such time. Some medications and pregnancy can also influence your results. Eating before conducting your test can also lower your TSH levels, so although not compulsory, a fasted sample is recommended for picking up mildly elevated levels.
| Thyroid Stimulating Hormone TSH | Free T4 | Free T3 | Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies TPO | Thyroglobulin Antibodies TG |
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