Why Thyroid Testing Is Important?
At Mistrys Pharmacy near Market Harborough, we make it easy to understand how your thyroid is functioning via simple testing. This easy to ready guide includes the types of tests, why they’re important, and what the results mean. All you need to do is stay informed and cautious.
What tests are required to check your thyroid?
The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ located in the neck that regulates metabolism and energy levels.
If you suspect any issue with your thyroid, you can get several tests done. The primary thyroid tests include:
- TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone)
This test measures the amount of TSH in your blood, indicating how well your thyroid functions.
- T4 (thyroxine) test
The T4 test measures the amount of T4 hormone in your blood, which the thyroid gland produces itself.
In addition to the primary ones, there are some other tests also performed to test your thyroid health, which include:
- T3 (triiodothyronine) test
- Thyroid antibody tests
- Fine-needle aspiration biopsy.
However, we recommend you consult your doctor in Market Harborough to understand the required thyroid tests based on your symptoms and medical history for a complete diagnosis.
What is an overactive thyroid?
On the other hand, an overactive thyroid, also known as hyperthyroidism, is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces too much of the hormone thyroxine.
- Symptoms
Consequently, an overactive thyroid may cause a range of symptoms, including:
- Weight loss
- Increased appetite
- Rapid heartbeat
- Sweating
- Nervousness and irritability.
- Causes
Considering the causes of an overactive thyroid, it may be a side effect of Graves’ disease, toxic nodular goitre, and excessive iodine intake.
- Diagnosis
Talking about the diagnosis, you can test an overactive thyroid through a physical exam, blood tests, and imaging tests.
- Treatment
While the treatment options for an overactive thyroid include:
- Medication to slow down the production of thyroxine
- Radioactive iodine therapy destroys the damaged thyroid tissue.
- Surgery for removing the affected part or all of the thyroid gland.
What is an underactive thyroid?
An underactive thyroid, also known as hypothyroidism, is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones to meet the body’s needs.
- Symptoms
Meanwhile, the symptoms of an underactive thyroid can include the following:
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Intolerance to cold and dry skin
- Constipation.
- Diagnosis
Typically, the diagnosis of an underactive thyroid involves a blood test. The test generally measures the level of thyroid hormones and thyroid-stimulating hormones in the bloodstream.
- Causes
The causes behind an underactive thyroid can include a variety of factors, such as:
- Autoimmune disorders
- Radiation treatment
- Surgery for the removal of the thyroid gland.
- Treatment
Furthermore, the treatment for an underactive thyroid typically involves medicine. Doctors recommend a daily dose of a synthetic thyroid hormone called levothyroxine for hypothyroidism. This hormone effectively replaces the hormones that the thyroid gland is not producing.
What are the early warning signs of thyroid problems?
Similar to all other health conditions, thyroid problems can have a significant impact on your overall health. Thus, it is crucial to be aware of the early signs to avoid long-term health consequences.
The following are the most common signs of thyroid problems:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Unexpected weight changes, especially weight gain.
- Mood changes, depression, and anxiety.
- Hair to thin or fall out.
- Dry, flaky skin.
- You may feel cold all the time, even in warm surroundings.
- Joint pain and stiffness.
Therefore, if you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to get the necessary thyroid function tests immediately for early detection and treatment of the problem.
Where can I get a thyroid test in Market Harborough?
If you are looking for private blood testing in Market Harborough, Mistrys Pharmacy is the perfect place to get checked.
We can help you get a comprehensive thyroid test that will help diagnose any thyroid problems you may be experiencing. In addition, our thyroid test is quick, easy, and affordable, making it the perfect choice for anyone who wants to keep track of their thyroid health.
So, book with us today get your thyroid test in Market Harborough
This blog post was written on behalf of Mistrys Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.
