How to Recognize Signs & Symptoms of Thyroid Problems Using Blood Tests

Thyroid specimen

The small thyroid gland, located in the front of the neck, secretes hormones that regulate the body's metabolism. Thyroid problems can develop when this gland secretes not enough or too much of these hormones. A malfunctioning thyroid can present different symptoms, some of which are associated with other medical conditions. Doctors who suspect thyroid problems in a patient can rule out other conditions and confirm the diagnosis by using blood tests.

Instructions

1. Understand that different thyroid problems produce different symptoms. Hypothyroidism refers to an underactive thyroid that produces an inadequate amount of hormones, while hyperthyroidism occurs when there is an overproduction of these hormones.

2. Know that symptoms associated with thyroid disease may be similar to those of other medical conditions. Some symptoms of hypothyroidism are puffiness of the face and extremities, depression, weight gain, constipation and dry skin. Hyperthyroidism can present signs like nervousness, fatigue, weight loss, sweating, arrhythmia and tremors of the hands.

3. Learn about the different types of blood tests used to diagnose thyroid problems. The blood tests most often used are the TSH or thyroid stimulating hormone test, the thyroid antibody test and the T4 and T3 tests. Note that thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) are thyroid hormones and the tests with these names measure thyroid function (see the Resources). TSH tests are a good method for identifying problems. By using the other tests in combination with the TSH test, however, doctors may more accurately pinpoint the cause of a person's thyroid problems.

4. See your doctor and get a thorough exam if you have any of the symptoms described in Step 2. A proper diagnosis is important to ensure that you get the correct treatment.

5. Get the tests ordered by your doctor. Blood tests can help doctors diagnose and evaluate thyroid problems, but other tests, such as a radioactive iodine uptake test, may also be necessary.

6. Ask your doctor to explain the test results. A high TSH level and a low level of T4 may indicate hypothyroidism, while a low level of TSH combined with a high level of T3 may mean that a person has hyperthyroidism. A thyroid antibody test can help to diagnose thyroid problems associated with autoimmune diseases such as Graves' disease and Hashimoto's thyroiditis (see Resources).

Tips & Warnings

• TSH tests can detect thyroid problems even when no symptoms are present. With early detection and treatment, patients can control thyroid problems before symptoms appear. The American Thyroid Association suggests that people over age 35 have a thyroid test every five years.

References

• Womens Health.gov
• American Thyroid Associatiom
• Lab Test Online

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Find information on thyroid gland, problems and types of blood tests
• See information on antibody test and the other tests.