Thyroid Tests Overview

The thyroid gland is responsible for the production of the thyroid hormone. Malfunctions in the thyroid gland can lead to endocrinological problems in the body that can negatively impact several organ systems in the body. Thyroid tests are used to study the functioning of the thyroid gland and to ensure the production of thyroid hormone is being performed optimally. Problems with the thyroid gland can lead to an increased risk of several medical conditions such as Grave’s disease, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, thyroid cancer, hypothyroidism, and hyperthyroidism. Based on the thyroid blood test reports, doctors can determine the root cause of several health problems and offer a treatment course that can help improve thyroid gland function.

Why Are Thyroid Tests Prescribed?

Thyroid tests are prescribed to understand the underlying cause of certain medical symptoms. Here are the symptoms that warrant doctors to prescribe thyroid tests.

• Unexplained weight gain
• Weakness or fatigue
• Sleep problems
• Digestive problems namely constipation or diarrhoea
• Irregularity in menstrual periods for women
• Increased urinary urgency
• Sensitivity to heat or cold
• Anxiety or symptoms of depression

These symptoms can indicate either hypothyroidism, which is the underactivity of the thyroid gland or hyperthyroidism, which is overactivity of the thyroid gland. Thyroid check ups and tests can help doctors identify the underlying cause of these symptoms and offer treatment accordingly.

How Are Thyroid Tests Performed?

Thyroid tests are performed as regular blood tests in most cases. The test involves drawing blood from the veins the forearm of the patient using a sterilised syringe and sending the sample for testing. Rubbing alcohol is often swabbed over the sample collection area before the test to disinfect the region and minimise the pain from needle pricking.

Home Sample Collection

Thyroid check at home is possible with Aster Labs. We offer home sample collection for thyroid tests, which allows our patients to go through the sample collection process from the comfort of their home. Our experts ensure the sample collection is painless for our patients.

How To Prepare For Thyroid Tests?

Thyroid tests do not require any specific prerequisites to be followed by patients. It is advisable to talk to your doctors regarding any medicine you’re currently having before a thyroid test to ensure they do not interfere with the thyroid blood test reports in any way.

What Does Thyroid Test Results Mean?

Thyroid reports are presented as the level of thyroid hormone in your blood. Compared to the normal level, if your thyroid levels are higher, it could indicate hyperthyroidism and lower test results may indicate hypothyroidism. Further diagnostic tests are ordered by doctors based on the test results to confirm their diagnosis.