The thyroid is a large gland located in the base of the neck and is part of the body’s endocrine system. Glands that make up the endocrine system are responsible for producing, storing, and releasing hormones into the bloodstream. Specifically, the thyroid gland controls the body’s metabolism via hormones.
There are two conditions associated with abnormal function of a thyroid gland. Hyperthyroidism is also known as an overactive thyroid, while hypothyroidism is caused by an underactive thyroid. If you are showing symptoms for either condition, a TSH test may be performed. Here is everything you need to know about this hormonal assessment.
What is TSH?
When thyroid hormone levels decrease, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) is produced by the pituitary gland to spur production and increase blood levels. However, when the pituitary gland senses too much thyroid hormone, it may use TSH to decrease production or stop it altogether.
What is a TSH test?
The TSH test measures the amount of TSH in your blood. Therefore, a blood sample will be required of you. A TSH test is the preferred method for observing thyroid function.
Who benefits from a TSH test?
TSH testing is used to diagnose an individual once they start showing symptoms of thyroid malfunction. The test is also regularly used to monitor the treatment of an individual once they have been diagnosed.
Normal production of TSH may take some time to resume, which is why it is recommended that treatment be monitored with testing. Newborns are routinely screened for an underactive thyroid. Women with infertility issues may also be given the test. On rare occasions, the test is used to monitor the pituitary glands.
What are the risks of a TSH test?
Although rare, there is always a slight risk when drawing blood. Complications can potentially include:
- Infection
- Fainting
- Dizziness
- Excessive bleeding
How are TSH test results interpreted?
When diagnosing hyper- or hypothyroidism, high test results indicate an underactive thyroid, while low test results mean the thyroid is overactive.
If the test was performed, however, to monitor treatment for an already diagnosed thyroid malfunction and results return high or low this may mean medication needs to be adjusted in order to find the right balance.
In rare cases, a high or low test result can be due to a problem with the pituitary gland itself. A tumor on the gland that is responsible for unregulated levels of TSH may be the cause for high results or a damaged gland that hinders normal production of TSH could be the cause of low test results.
If a TSH test is deemed abnormal, further testing may need to be done to better understand the results for an accurate diagnosis.
