TSH

Why test TSH levels?

The TSH test is one of the basic tests by which we can check the normal functioning of the thyroid gland. In practice, a doctor may order a blood test when hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism is suspected, and as part of monitoring the effectiveness of treatment.

What does a thyroid hormone test consist of?

Hypothyroidism can most easily be diagnosed with a test of TSH levels in the blood. If the result indicates that it exceeded the lower limit of normal we will be dealing in this case with hyperthyroidism.

Hyperthyroidism

Norms may differ slightly from each other. They are influenced by the reagent used and the apparatus on which the laboratory technicians work.Among other things, the technique of conducting the test in a particular laboratory. If the result is abnormal, it is recommended to consult a doctor, who may decide to order further diagnostics, for example, to examine the level of free thyroxine - one of the hormones of the concentration of free hormones of our thyroid FT4

If TSH levels are decreased and FT4 levels are increased then we are dealing with hyperthyroidism. The doctor, based on the results of previous tests, medical history and examination at the visit, may order additional tests to find the cause of the disease, among other things:

• USG of the thyroid gland
• Blood morphology
• Testing of antithyroid antibody levels

• Testing of blood

Hypothyroidism is also best diagnosed by taking a blood sample from the patient. If the result shows us that it has exceeded the upper limit of normal, you should consult your doctor about it. Norms usually vary, as they do for hyperthyroidism. In addition, it may happen that the doctor orders us to perform a test to monitor the effectiveness of treatment.

TSH norms

The proper values of the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in the blood range from 0.2–0.4 to 4.0–4.25 mj.m. for an adult individual. Nevertheless, it should be remembered that these norms are not permanent. They may also differ due to the methodology adopted by a given laboratory.

TSH above the normal range

Such a result usually indicates hypothyroidism. Sometimes, high levels of the thyroid-stimulating hormone (high TSH) indicate the presence of hypophysial adenoma (adenoma of the pituitary gland), genetic diseases or primary adrenal insufficiency, or result from the intake of certain drugs (e.g. thyreostatics).

TSH below the normal range

Lowered results indicate hyperthyroidism. Sometimes, they are also related to hypopituitarism or Graves-Basedow disease. Moreover, low TSH values tend to result from the intake of specific agents (e.g. dopamine, phenytoin, or amiodarone).

The thyroid gland – functions and characteristics

Despite its small size, the thyroid gland is responsible for:

• T4 and T3 hormone production;
• Metabolic regulation;
• It affects the functioning of the circulatory system.

The 2006 data of the Polish Central Statistics Office (GUS) demonstrate that statistically every fifth person in Poland had or still has thyroid problems. Many of them fail to see the changes occurring in the body or simply ignore certain symptoms. If you have noticed that your skin has become dry, you feel cold, cannot lose or gain any weight – go to a physician who will use your medical history and examination to make a diagnosis or prescribe additional tests/examinations. Simple blood tests make it possible for a physician to determine whether the thyroid gland produces adequate amounts of hormones.

TSH during pregnancy

Why is the TSH test prescribed during pregnancy? Thyroid hormones are necessary for proper growth of the foetus. Their proper levels determine healthy growth of the brain, as well as the nervous and skeletal systems. The test itself is prescribed in individuals with suspected hyper- or hypothyroidism. During pregnancy, oestrogen and chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) may increase or decrease the production of the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).

How often should the TSH be checked during pregnancy?

Depending on which trimester the woman is in, the range of the norm for TSH may deviate from the standard one. An increased production of thyroid hormones in women generates the demand for iodine. In the event of abnormal TSH values, further procedures, including the frequency of follow-up appointments, are determined by an endocrinologist. Hypothyroidism in pregnant women may increase the risk of miscarriage or premature childbirth.

Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism

Hypothyroidism is one of the most common conditions affecting the thyroid gland: The manifestations of hypothyroidism include:

• increased body mass;
• weakening, easy fatigue during exercise, general fatigue;
• excessive drowsiness;
• concentration problems;
• memory disorders;
• feeling of cold, fast freezing (especially of the hands and feet, usually in the afternoon and evening);
• constipation;
• dried skin;
• oedema of the eyelids and hands, thickening of facial features;
• dry and fragile hair;
• hoarseness and husky voice.

Good treatment results are offered by levothyroxine, whose effects are the same as those of the thyroid-produced hormone. It is recommended to follow a healthy, well-balanced diet, rich in adequate amounts of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. Hyperthyroidism commonly affects women at the age between 20 and 40 years.

The symptoms of hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, are as follows:

• weight loss, despite increased appetite;
• feeling of heat;
• hyperhidrosis (excessive perspiration);
• irritability, nervousness, restlessness, anxiety;
• insomnia;
• concentration difficulties;
• trembling of the hands, tongue or eyeballs;
• increased bowel movements, and even diarrhoea;
• accelerated heart rate, palpitations;
• dyspnoea;
• decreased muscle strength;
• hair loss;
• symptoms typical of Graves-Basedow disease: protrusion of the eyeballs, double vision, oedema or reddening of the eyelids or conjunctivae;
• in women - menstrual disorders (dysmenorrhoea), including rare or absent menstruation;
• in men - decreased libido and sometimes erectile dysfunctions.

A physician prescribes drugs that reduce the production of thyroid hormones. Quick detection of problems may protect us against complications, including cardiac arrhythmias or heart failure.