PharmEasy Labs is making diagnostic tests available to everyone at large discounts. The quality and accuracy of the tests are guaranteed by the fact that the latest machines are used to analyse the samples and this is done by skilled lab technicians, and the reports are further verified by pathologists. An email is sent to the user containing the report. Home sample collection is also offered.

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck under the skin. T3 and T4 are two hormones secreted by the thyroid gland. Thyroid hormones play a crucial role by maintaining the speed of metabolism, heart and muscle function, bone density, mood and energy level, weight, and body temperature. These hormones are essential in brain development in infants. Excess or deficiency of thyroid hormones in the blood enhances or slows down many body functions, leading to various health conditions.

The pituitary gland, which controls the thyroid gland, is located at the base of the brain. Thyroid-stimulating hormone is produced by the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland. It is the primary stimulus for the thyroid hormones produced by the thyroid gland.

A high level of TSH in the blood indicates hypothyroidism. When the thyroid produces low levels of hormones, the pituitary gland increases the secretion of TSH to encourage the thyroid gland. On the other hand, hyperthyroidism results in high levels of thyroid hormones in the blood. The pituitary then reduces or stops the production of TSH to control the thyroid. Thus, checking the level of TSH in the blood helps to understand whether someone's thyroid gland is functioning properly. If the TSH level is too high or too low, doctors may recommend other diagnostic tests (T3 and T4) to find out the underlying condition.

Other than health problems, TSH levels in the blood can vary due to:

• Age: TSH levels tend to increase as people get older. Hypothyroidism is a common thyroid condition in senior adults who are over 60.
• Pregnancy: During the first trimester of pregnancy, the thyroid produces more hormones for the development of the foetal brain and nervous system. Then, the TSH in the blood decreases. During the next two trimesters, TSH levels rise but remain below normal for nonpregnant women. TSH levels are checked regularly during pregnancy because abnormal TSH levels increase the risk of miscarriage and other pregnancy-related problems, such as premature birth and low birth weight.

Besides age and pregnancy status, factors that affect the level of TSH in blood are as follows:

• Medications
• Supplements
• Diet and iodine intake
• Presence of autoantibodies and heterophilic antibodies
• Smoking
• Ethnicity
• Other conditions occurring at the same time

TSH test is used to help diagnose:

• Hypothyroidism: Some of the symptoms are fatigue, cold sensitivity, constipation, dry skin, and unexplained weight gain
• Hyperthyroidism: The symptoms include irregular heartbeat, unexpected weight loss, sweating, and irritability
• Thyroid nodules: Generally non-cancerous, but may cause difficulty in breathing and swallowing and voice change
• Thyroid cancer:  Larger cancerous nodules need treatments or surgery

TSH test is also performed to monitor the levels of thyroid when

• Someone has been treated for hyperthyroidism.
• Treatment is ongoing for hypothyroidism.
• A doctor wants to check if a newborn has congenital hypothyroidism
• Someone has undergone thyroid removal surgery

No special preparation or fasting is needed for the TSH blood test. If your doctor has suggested additional blood tests, you may have to fast before the TSH test. Make sure to tell your doctor about the medications and supplements you are taking.

During the TSH Test

• The phlebotomist will reach your home at the designated time.
• A vein finder will be used to locate the right vein in your arm.
• A fresh needle will be inserted into the vein.
• The required volume of blood will be drawn.
• The blood sample will be sealed in a tube and put in an icebox.
• The sample will be taken to the lab.