Thyroid Stimulating Hormone

The Thyroid gland sits in the neck and has a shape similar to a butterfly. The gland is part of the endocrine system and responsible for producing certain hormones. These hormones play a critical role in the metabolism of your body. In addition to metabolism, the gland also has a role in the development of your entire body.

In some cases, the disease can impair the function of the thyroid gland. There are scenarios where the ability of the gland to produce hormones may be suppressed. This can lead to a slower metabolism, among other problems. In other scenarios, the thyroid gland may produce too many hormones.

The thyroid-stimulating hormone can give you an indication of how well your thyroid gland is currently working. We look at what thyroid-stimulating hormone is and why you might want to get a reading for this hormone.

What Is Thyroid Stimulating Hormone?

The thyroid gland produces two hormones that are generally referred to as T3 and T4. Both hormones play a role, but T4 is often referred to as the "active" thyroid hormone. Too little or too much of these hormones can cause problems in your body. This is where the stimulating thyroid hormone comes in.

Thyroid-stimulating hormone is not made by the thyroid gland. The pituitary gland rather makes this hormone. The pituitary gland sits at the back of your head. When the thyroid-stimulating hormone is produced, it is sent to the thyroid gland through your bloodstream. The hormone then binds to special receptors in your thyroid gland. The thyroid-stimulating hormone then, as the name suggests, stimulates your thyroid gland. In response, your thyroid gland then releases T3 and T4 hormones.

What Does a High Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Level Mean?

When there is too much thyroid-stimulating hormone in the blood, it usually signals a problem with the thyroid gland. A high level of TSH means the pituitary gland is responding to a lack of thyroid hormones in the body.

Thus, when you have too much TSH, it usually means your thyroid gland is underactive. This generally indicates a problem like hypothyroidism. The thyroid gland is not making enough T3 and T4 hormones to support growth, development, and metabolism in your body. When this happens, your pituitary gland responds by increasing the production of thyroid-stimulating hormone, with the goal of increasing the stimulation of the thyroid gland.

What Does a Low Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Result Mean?

A low level of this hormone in your body means the opposite as a high level. When you test for TSH and levels of the hormone is lower than normal, it generally means there are too many thyroid hormones in your blood. The pituitary gland recognized the high level of thyroid hormones and responded by reducing the production of thyroid-stimulating hormone.

This scenario generally signals a thyroid hormone that is overactive. The gland is producing too many T3 and T4 hormones. This can also cause problems with several systems in your body, including your metabolism.

Signs of Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism refers to an underactive thyroid. This is when there are too little thyroid hormones in your blood, which also causes levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone to rise.

Common symptoms that are generally associated with hypothyroidism include:

·       Fatigue

·       Dry skin

·       Constipation

·       Weight gain

·       Hoarseness

·       Muscle weakness

·       High blood cholesterol

·       Joints may become swollen and stiff

·       Joint pain is possible

·       Heart rate can be slower than normal

·       Face may appear puffy

·       Increased sensitivity to colder weather

·       Muscle aches and stiffness

·       Hair may appear thinner

·       Depression and memory problems

Signs of Hyperthyroidism

With hyperthyroidism, there are too many thyroid hormones in your body. This also causes a low level of thyroid-stimulating hormone.

There are also several symptoms that may indicate hyperthyroidism. Look out for the following signs:

·       Rapid heart rate

·       Heart palpitations

·       Heart rate may also be irregular

·       Fatigue and general weakness

·       Unexpected weight loss

·       Tremor

·       An increase in bowel movements

·       Excessive sweating

·       Nervousness

·       Anxiety

·       Sensitivity to heat

Testing Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Levels

The thyroid-stimulating hormone can provide an accurate indication of whether your thyroid gland is functioning as it should. When you test your thyroid-stimulating hormone level, it will often be possible to determine if there might be a problem with this gland.

The purpose of a TSH test is to determine the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone currently in your body. A blood test is required to test for this hormone, but the procedure is straightforward. Blood is drawn from one of your veins and then sent to a laboratory for testing.

You will receive test results with a reading on the thyroid-stimulating hormone in your body.

If your TSH levels fall in the range of 0.4 mU/L and 4.0 mU/L, then they are normal. When the reading reports a TSH level lower than 0.4 mU/L, it means you have too little of this hormone circulating in your body. A reading that is higher than 4.0 mU/L means there is too much of the hormone. For more information on TSH levels check out this excellent explanation by the Cleveland Clinic.

TSH Testing at Medicine Center Pharmacy

When you suspect hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, it is important to get your thyroid gland tested. The initial test you should consider is for the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone in your body. TSH testing is not a complicated procedure and can be done at various locations.

For accurate testing related to your thyroid-stimulating hormone, Medicine Center Pharmacy offers a cost-effective and professional service. Our testing services welcome all patients, and the procedure is straightforward. We will also ensure your results are sent to you the moment the testing has been completed. Check our events page for the next TSH screening at a pharmacy near you.

Once you have a reading on your TSH levels, you can determine if thyroid diseases might be the problem. This allows you to take appropriate action and talk to your doctor about treatment options.

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279388/

https://www.yourhormones.info/hormones/thyroid-stimulating-hormone/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hypothyroidism/symptoms-causes/syc-20350284 

https://www.medicinenet.com/hyperthyroidism/article.htm

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324096.php#procedure