7 Signs You Need a Thyroid Check
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Your thyroid, a small gland in your neck, affects everything from metabolism to mood. Thyroid problems are common but often go unnoticed because symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or mood swings can be mistaken for stress or ageing. Women are more likely to experience thyroid issues, and untreated conditions can lead to serious health problems. Here are seven signs that may indicate you need a thyroid check:
- Persistent fatigue: Feeling exhausted even after proper rest.
- Unexplained weight changes: Gaining or losing weight without changes to diet or exercise.
- Sensitivity to temperature: Feeling too cold or too hot compared to others.
- Mood changes: Depression, anxiety, or memory issues.
- Thinning hair and dry skin: Hair loss and brittle skin that doesn’t improve.
- Irregular heart rate: Heart beating too fast or too slow without reason.
- Digestive or menstrual issues: Constipation, diarrhoea, or abnormal periods.
If you notice these symptoms, a simple blood test can check your thyroid function. Early detection can prevent complications like heart disease or osteoporosis.
1. Constant Tiredness Despite Adequate Sleep
Feeling drained even after a full night's sleep? Your thyroid could be the culprit. Persistent fatigue that doesn't improve with rest is a common early warning sign of hypothyroidism, affecting as many as 80% of people with an underactive thyroid.
This isn't your typical tiredness from a late night or a busy schedule. Hypothyroid fatigue is relentless and overwhelming - no amount of rest or coffee seems to help. It can make even simple daily tasks feel like monumental challenges.
When your thyroid isn't producing enough hormones, it slows down your metabolism. This means your body struggles to convert energy efficiently, leaving you feeling physically drained and mentally foggy.
This type of fatigue also impacts your ability to concentrate and may bring on brain fog, which can affect your productivity and overall quality of life.
One individual, featured in the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology's resources, shared how her severe fatigue disrupted her daily activities and work, ultimately leading her to seek medical advice.
What sets thyroid-related fatigue apart is its persistence and intensity. Unlike the tiredness caused by stress or overexertion, hypothyroid fatigue often comes with other symptoms, such as unexplained weight gain, constant feelings of cold, or mood changes. These additional clues can help pinpoint whether your thyroid might be the underlying issue.
If this unshakable fatigue aligns with other symptoms, it's worth digging deeper. A simple blood test measuring TSH and free T4 levels can determine if your thyroid is functioning properly. Services like Epsom Blood Tests offer comprehensive thyroid panels with next-day results, making it easier to get to the root of your exhaustion.
2. Sudden Weight Gain or Loss
Unexpected changes in weight can often be a clear indicator of thyroid issues. If your weight has shifted significantly without any changes to your diet or exercise routine, it might be your thyroid trying to grab your attention.
Hypothyroidism is typically linked to unexplained weight gain, while hyperthyroidism often results in sudden weight loss. This happens because thyroid hormones regulate your metabolism - essentially your body's energy-burning system. When these hormones are out of balance, your metabolism can either slow down or speed up dramatically, leading to noticeable changes on the scales.
When Your Thyroid Slows Things Down
An underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, slows your metabolism considerably. In the UK, approximately 1 in 20 people are affected by hypothyroidism, with weight gain being one of the most common symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic. Fluid retention further compounds this issue, amplifying the numbers on the scale.
Research published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism highlights that untreated hypothyroidism can lead to an average weight gain of 5–10 kg, largely due to fluid retention and fat accumulation. This can feel particularly disheartening, as the weight gain often occurs despite no changes in diet or activity levels.
The Mayo Clinic shared a case study of a 45-year-old woman who gained 7 kg over six months without altering her lifestyle. After receiving treatment for hypothyroidism, her weight stabilised.
When Your Thyroid Speeds Things Up
On the other hand, hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, causes your metabolism to accelerate. The American Thyroid Association estimates that around 1 in 100 people experience hyperthyroidism, with weight loss being one of its hallmark symptoms. In this state, the body burns through calories at a rapid pace, often resulting in weight loss even if you're eating more than usual.
This rapid weight loss can be alarming. For instance, a 32-year-old man reported losing 10 kg in just three months without trying. A diagnosis of hyperthyroidism explained the sudden change, and his weight stabilised after treatment.
Spotting the Signs
What sets thyroid-related weight changes apart from lifestyle-related ones is the lack of an obvious cause. You might notice weight gain despite sticking to your usual eating habits or experience weight loss even with an increased appetite.
These weight changes rarely occur on their own. Weight gain from hypothyroidism is often accompanied by symptoms like fatigue, cold intolerance, constipation, and dry skin. Conversely, weight loss from hyperthyroidism is frequently paired with increased hunger, heat intolerance, anxiety, and a racing heartbeat.
Awareness of thyroid disorders has grown in the UK, leading more people to seek private blood tests for thyroid function when faced with unexplained weight changes. If you're experiencing sudden weight fluctuations along with other symptoms, a detailed thyroid function test can offer clarity. Epsom Blood Tests provides comprehensive thyroid panels with next-day results, helping you determine whether your thyroid might be influencing these changes.
3. Feeling Too Hot or Too Cold
If your thyroid isn’t working as it should, you might notice unusual sensitivity to temperature - feeling either too hot or too cold while others seem comfortable. This sensitivity is a common sign of thyroid issues.
When You’re Always Cold
Cold intolerance is often linked to hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid. This isn’t just feeling chilly; it’s a sign of a slowed metabolism that struggles to keep your body warm.
According to a 2022 survey by the British Thyroid Foundation, over 60% of people with hypothyroidism reported being more sensitive to cold. You might find yourself layering up indoors or relying on heated blankets, even during mild weather. Cold intolerance is rarely an isolated symptom, often appearing alongside fatigue, dry skin, and constipation.
When You’re Always Hot
On the flip side, hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, speeds up your metabolism, leading to heat intolerance. This can result in excessive sweating and a constant need to cool down, even when others are comfortable.
The same survey found that over 70% of people with hyperthyroidism experienced heat intolerance or excessive sweating. You might avoid warm environments, wake up drenched in sweat, or find yourself needing a fan even in cooler temperatures. Some people also notice clammy skin or redness, often accompanied by itchiness.
Both extremes - feeling too hot or too cold - suggest a thyroid imbalance that shouldn’t be ignored.
How Your Thyroid Affects Temperature
Thyroid hormones play a key role in regulating your metabolism, which directly influences your body’s ability to generate and lose heat. Think of your thyroid as your internal thermostat: when it’s underactive, everything slows down, leaving you cold; when it’s overactive, the system goes into overdrive, making you feel overheated and sweaty.
| Temperature Sensitivity | Hypothyroidism (Underactive) | Hyperthyroidism (Overactive) |
|---|---|---|
| How You Feel | Cold easily | Hot, sweaty |
| Metabolism | Slower | Faster |
| Skin | Dry, pale | Clammy, red, itchy |
| Heart Rate | Slower | Faster |
Spotting these patterns early can help you seek the right tests and treatment.
Putting the Pieces Together
Temperature sensitivity often appears alongside other thyroid-related symptoms. It’s one of the earlier signs people notice, but it’s easy to dismiss as ageing or unrelated issues. What starts as mild sensitivity can evolve into a more persistent problem when combined with other signs of thyroid dysfunction.
If you’re dealing with ongoing temperature sensitivity that doesn’t match your surroundings, it might be time to check your thyroid. A thyroid function test can shed light on whether your symptoms are hormone-related. Epsom Blood Tests offers detailed thyroid panels, measuring TSH, T3, and T4 levels. Results are reviewed by doctors and delivered the next day, helping you take the next step towards understanding your symptoms.
4. Depression, Anxiety, or Memory Problems
Mental changes, like fatigue and sensitivity to temperature, can sometimes signal thyroid issues. Since your thyroid affects both metabolism and brain function, unexplained mood shifts, memory troubles, or ongoing anxiety might point to an underlying thyroid imbalance.
When Your Mood Takes a Hit
Thyroid problems often mimic long-term mental health conditions. Disruptions in thyroid function can impact brain chemistry, leading to issues like depression, anxiety, and memory lapses. Research shows that up to 50% of people with hypothyroidism experience depression, while 30–40% of those with hyperthyroidism report anxiety disorders. These symptoms can significantly disrupt daily life, often appearing alongside physical signs like weight changes or temperature sensitivity.
Hypothyroidism: The Slow-Down Effect
An underactive thyroid slows down many of your body's functions, including brain activity. This can lead to persistent feelings of depression, low energy, and what’s often described as "brain fog." Memory issues and trouble concentrating are also common. Physical symptoms such as weight gain, feeling cold, and changes in bowel habits frequently accompany these mental changes.
Hyperthyroidism: The Anxiety Spiral
An overactive thyroid, on the other hand, can overstimulate your nervous system. This often results in heightened anxiety, irritability, panic attacks, and even insomnia. Older adults may feel these effects more intensely, often paired with symptoms like a rapid heartbeat or excessive sweating.
The Brain Chemistry Connection
Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating neurotransmitters that influence mood and cognition. When these hormones are out of balance, the chemical messengers in your brain can be disrupted, contributing to mood swings, anxiety, and memory problems.
| Symptom Category | Hypothyroidism (Underactive) | Hyperthyroidism (Overactive) |
|---|---|---|
| Mood | Depression, apathy | Anxiety, irritability |
| Cognition | Memory issues, slow thinking | Restlessness, insomnia |
| Other Signs | Fatigue | Panic attacks, agitation |
Spotting the Difference
A key clue that mental health symptoms may be thyroid-related is when they occur alongside physical changes. If you’ve noticed unexplained weight changes, sensitivity to temperature, energy shifts, or altered bowel habits, it’s worth considering your thyroid health. Often, mental health symptoms linked to thyroid issues don’t improve with standard treatments until the thyroid imbalance is addressed.
Recognising these patterns can help you seek timely testing and treatment.
Getting Answers
If mood or memory issues persist, it’s a good idea to test your thyroid function. Many people find that their mental and cognitive symptoms improve within weeks of starting thyroid treatment, though full recovery might take longer.
For accurate and comprehensive thyroid testing, Epsom Blood Tests offers detailed thyroid panels. These include measurements of key hormones like TSH, T3, and T4. With professional in-clinic testing, next-day results, and expert analysis, you’ll receive clear, actionable insights into your thyroid health.
5. Thinning Hair and Dry Skin
Thinning hair and dry skin can often be brushed off as normal signs of ageing or the result of stress. However, these changes might actually be early indicators of thyroid dysfunction. Persistent issues with hair and skin are among the first noticeable signs that something could be wrong with your thyroid.
The Hypothyroidism Effect
When the thyroid is underactive, a condition known as hypothyroidism, it slows down the body's metabolic processes. This includes the growth and upkeep of hair follicles and skin cells. Research suggests that about 50% of people with hypothyroidism experience hair thinning. The hair loss is usually diffuse, meaning it affects the entire scalp rather than forming distinct bald patches. A tell-tale sign is the loss of hair from the outer third of the eyebrows. Additionally, hair can become rougher, more brittle, and prone to breaking.
Hypothyroidism also impacts the skin. Reduced thyroid hormone levels lead to decreased sweat and oil production, leaving the skin feeling dry. This condition can also affect nails, making them more brittle and prone to splitting.
Hyperthyroidism: A Different Pattern
An overactive thyroid, or hyperthyroidism, can also lead to hair thinning, but the pattern is different. Hair tends to become finer, more fragile, and sheds more quickly due to the increased metabolic activity. Unlike the dryness seen in hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism often results in smooth, moist skin due to excessive sweating. Nail changes are less common in this condition compared to hypothyroidism.
| Thyroid Condition | Hair Changes | Skin Changes | Nail Changes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hypothyroidism | Diffuse thinning, coarser texture, eyebrow loss | Dry skin | Brittle, splitting |
| Hyperthyroidism | Fine, thinning, increased shedding | Smooth, moist skin | Less commonly affected |
These changes highlight the importance of recognising thyroid-related symptoms and seeking appropriate testing.
When to Take Notice
Hair and skin changes, when paired with other symptoms like fatigue, unexplained weight shifts, or sensitivity to temperature, could point to a thyroid imbalance. For many, these changes are among the first noticeable signs. In fact, over 70% of individuals diagnosed with hypothyroidism report hair and skin issues as a primary concern. It’s the combination of symptoms that often signals a thyroid issue rather than just normal ageing or minor nutritional deficiencies.
Recovery Takes Time
Once a thyroid imbalance is treated, improvements in hair and skin health follow. However, this recovery can take time. While some people notice less hair shedding within a few weeks, full regrowth and skin repair usually take between 6 and 12 months. This is because these tissues regenerate slowly.
Getting Answers
If you’re dealing with thinning hair, dry skin, or brittle nails alongside other thyroid-related symptoms, it’s worth getting your thyroid checked. Epsom Blood Tests offers comprehensive thyroid function tests, with professional in-clinic testing and next-day results. This can help you quickly determine whether your thyroid might be the cause of your symptoms.
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6. Fast or Slow Heart Rate
Your heart rate can offer important insights into your thyroid health. When your thyroid isn’t functioning as it should, it can directly impact how quickly or slowly your heart beats.
When Your Heart Speeds Up: Hyperthyroidism
An overactive thyroid ramps up your metabolism, often causing your resting heart rate to exceed 100 bpm. This can lead to a rapid, pounding heartbeat, even when you're at rest.
This sensation is often more noticeable at night when the environment is quieter. Some people, particularly older adults, may also experience irregular heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation.
When Your Heart Slows Down: Hypothyroidism
An underactive thyroid has the opposite effect, slowing everything down - including your heart rate. With hypothyroidism, you might develop bradycardia, which means your heart beats slower than normal. This can leave you feeling weak, tired, or even dizzy, especially when you stand up quickly.
A sluggish heart rate can also make your body less efficient at pumping blood, which contributes to fatigue and low energy levels.
The Serious Risks
If thyroid-related heart rate changes go untreated, they can have serious consequences. Hyperthyroidism, if left unmanaged, can lead to atrial fibrillation, which significantly raises your risk of stroke and heart failure. On the other hand, severe hypothyroidism can cause dangerously slow heart rates, resulting in low blood pressure, dizziness, and, in extreme cases, heart failure.
| Thyroid Condition | Heart Rate Pattern | Associated Risks |
|---|---|---|
| Hyperthyroidism | Fast/irregular (>100 bpm) | Atrial fibrillation, stroke, heart failure |
| Hypothyroidism | Slow (bradycardia) | Low blood pressure, dizziness, heart failure |
Recognising the Warning Signs
Keep an eye on persistent changes in your heart rate that can’t be explained by factors like exercise, stress, or caffeine. If your heart is racing while at rest or your pulse feels unusually slow - especially if paired with other symptoms like unexplained weight changes or sensitivity to temperature - it’s worth investigating.
Many people mistake heart palpitations for anxiety or stress, but when combined with other thyroid symptoms, they could indicate a deeper issue. If these changes persist, getting a thyroid test sooner rather than later is essential.
Getting Answers Quickly
If you’re worried about heart rate changes linked to your thyroid, Epsom Blood Tests offers a quick and reliable solution. They provide in-clinic thyroid function tests with next-day results, giving you a clear, doctor-reviewed report that explains your results in detail. This fast turnaround can be a real advantage when you’re dealing with concerning heart symptoms that need immediate attention.
7. Bowel Problems and Period Changes
Your thyroid plays a significant role in both digestion and menstrual health. Changes in bowel habits or menstrual cycles can often signal thyroid dysfunction, extending the range of symptoms beyond the more commonly recognised fatigue and weight changes.
How Your Thyroid Affects Digestion
Thyroid hormones are crucial for regulating your metabolism, which directly impacts how quickly or slowly your digestive system works. If you have hypothyroidism, your gut motility slows down, often leading to persistent constipation. Research indicates that 30–40% of people with hypothyroidism struggle with this issue. On the other hand, hyperthyroidism speeds up digestion, which can result in frequent, loose stools or diarrhoea.
Menstrual Changes: What to Look For
Thyroid disorders can also disrupt menstrual cycles. With hypothyroidism, periods may become heavier, last longer, or occur irregularly. Meanwhile, hyperthyroidism is often associated with lighter, shorter, or even missed periods. Studies show that 20–40% of women with thyroid issues experience menstrual irregularities.
| Thyroid Condition | Bowel Changes | Menstrual Changes |
|---|---|---|
| Hypothyroidism | Chronic constipation | Heavier, longer, or irregular periods |
| Hyperthyroidism | Frequent loose stools/diarrhoea | Lighter, shorter, or missed periods |
The Link to Fertility
Thyroid dysfunction doesn’t just affect digestion and periods; it can also impact fertility. For instance, hypothyroidism can lead to elevated prolactin levels, which may inhibit ovulation and increase the risk of miscarriage.
Spotting the Patterns
Chronic constipation and heavy periods could point to undiagnosed hypothyroidism, while diarrhoea and missed periods may suggest Graves' disease. These patterns often improve once thyroid function is properly managed.
Dr Cheryl Rosenfeld says, "Bowel disturbances and menstrual changes are often overlooked but can be key indicators of thyroid disease."
When to Consult a Doctor
If you’re dealing with persistent bowel or menstrual changes, especially alongside symptoms like fatigue or weight fluctuations, it’s worth seeking medical advice. Keeping a record of your symptoms can help your healthcare provider identify potential thyroid issues early.
Testing for Thyroid Health
Concerned that your symptoms might be thyroid-related? A thyroid function test can provide clarity. Epsom Blood Tests offers detailed thyroid panels with in-clinic testing and next-day, doctor-reviewed results. Early testing can make a big difference in managing your thyroid health effectively.
Why Thyroid Testing Matters
Confirming thyroid health through testing is essential, especially since thyroid symptoms often mimic other conditions and can go unnoticed until complications arise.
The Role of Blood Tests
Blood tests are the most reliable way to assess thyroid function. Key tests include TSH, free T4, and free T3. TSH measures how effectively your thyroid responds to signals from the brain, while T4 and T3 are hormones that regulate metabolism, energy levels, and other vital functions. These tests help doctors determine whether your thyroid is underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive (hyperthyroidism), paving the way for personalised treatment.
Avoiding Serious Health Risks
Early detection and treatment can prevent complications such as heart disease, infertility, osteoporosis, and mental health issues. In fact, early intervention has been shown to reduce the risk of complications by up to 50%.
If left untreated, hypothyroidism can lead to heart disease, infertility, peripheral neuropathy, and goitre (an enlarged thyroid gland). On the other hand, untreated hyperthyroidism may result in atrial fibrillation, heart failure, osteoporosis, and Graves' ophthalmopathy (bulging eyes). In severe cases, hypothyroidism can escalate to myxoedema coma, a life-threatening condition.
The Overlooked Prevalence
Thyroid disorders are surprisingly common, affecting about 1 in 20 people in the UK during their lifetime. Alarmingly, up to 60% of individuals with thyroid disease are unaware of their condition, underscoring the importance of routine testing.
Research highlights the benefits of early diagnosis. A 2023 study by the British Thyroid Association revealed that timely treatment of hypothyroidism reduced the incidence of heart disease by 45% in a group of 1,200 patients over five years. Similarly, a case study from the Royal Free Hospital in London shared the story of a 45-year-old woman whose routine screening detected subclinical hypothyroidism. Early intervention prevented the progression to overt hypothyroidism and its associated complications.
Who Should Consider Testing
If you experience persistent fatigue, unexplained weight changes, mood swings, temperature intolerance, irregular heart rates, bowel issues, or menstrual irregularities - or if you have a family history of thyroid disease - you should consider getting tested. Testing is also advised for individuals at higher risk, such as women over 60 or those with autoimmune conditions. For those already diagnosed, regular monitoring ensures that treatment remains effective and safe.
Fast and Reliable Testing Options
In-clinic blood tests typically provide results within 1-2 days. For faster results, services like Epsom Blood Tests offer next-day, doctor-reviewed thyroid panels, providing clear and actionable insights. This efficient process ensures you can take control of your health without delays.
Testing isn’t just about diagnosing a problem - it’s about staying ahead of potential health issues and ensuring peace of mind.
Getting Tested: What to Expect
Early detection is key when it comes to thyroid health, and understanding what to expect during your test can ease any concerns. At Epsom Blood Tests, the process is straightforward and efficient, starting with a blood draw that takes less than 10 minutes. Simply book your test online and schedule an in-clinic appointment with a professional phlebotomist.
The Testing Process
When you arrive for your appointment, a trained phlebotomist will collect your blood in a safe and comfortable clinical environment. The entire visit is quick - typically under 15 minutes - so it won’t disrupt your day. There’s no special preparation required unless specific instructions are provided beforehand.
Located at 45 Stoneleigh Broadway, Epsom, KT17 2JE, Epsom Blood Tests has earned glowing reviews for their quality service. With experienced professionals handling your blood draw, you can feel confident in the care provided. As of November 2025, the clinic boasts an impressive 4.9/5 rating from over 300 Google Reviews and 3,250+ Trustpilot Reviews.
What Gets Measured
Your blood sample will be analysed for essential thyroid markers, including TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone), free T4, and sometimes free T3. If there's a suspicion of autoimmune thyroid disease, additional tests like thyroid antibodies (TPOAb and TgAb) may also be included. These markers give a detailed view of your thyroid function, helping to identify any imbalances or dysfunction.
Receiving Your Results
One of the standout features of Epsom Blood Tests is the speed of results. You’ll typically receive your results the next working day, far quicker than the traditional NHS timeline, which can take several days or more. The results are delivered securely and include a detailed report with doctor commentary to help you understand your hormone levels.
The report compares your results against reference ranges and explains whether your thyroid function is normal, underactive (hypothyroidism), or overactive (hyperthyroidism). For instance, a high TSH paired with low free T4 suggests hypothyroidism, whereas a low TSH with high free T4 points to hyperthyroidism. This expert interpretation removes any uncertainty, giving you clear, actionable insights into your thyroid health.
Safety and Side Effects
Thyroid blood tests are very safe, with serious complications being extremely rare. The most common side effects are minor, such as slight bruising or mild discomfort at the needle site. For most people, the procedure is hassle-free, and they can resume their daily activities immediately after the test.
Additional Health Checks
If you’re looking for a broader picture of your health, you can combine your thyroid test with other assessments. Options include hormone panels, vitamin profiles, cholesterol checks, and general health screens. This allows you to gain a more comprehensive understanding of your overall health in one go.
Should your results fall outside the normal range, the clinic provides clear guidance on next steps, such as consulting your GP or an endocrinologist for further evaluation and treatment. This ensures you’re supported every step of the way, with a clear plan to address any thyroid-related concerns.
Conclusion
Your thyroid is a key player in keeping your body running smoothly, influencing everything from your metabolism and energy levels to your mood and heart rate. Yet, thyroid disorders are surprisingly common and often overlooked. The seven warning signs we’ve covered - constant fatigue, unexplained weight changes, temperature sensitivity, mood swings, changes in hair and skin, irregular heart rate, and bowel or menstrual irregularities - shouldn’t be brushed off as just stress or ageing.
Catching these issues early can make a world of difference. Timely diagnosis and treatment can help restore balance and prevent serious complications like heart problems, infertility, osteoporosis, or cognitive decline. Ignoring the symptoms could lead to worsening health over time, so acting quickly is crucial.
If you’ve noticed several of these symptoms, don’t delay. A simple blood test can identify thyroid imbalances and set you on the path to better health. Taking action now can make all the difference.
FAQs
What are the long-term health risks of untreated thyroid problems?
If thyroid problems go untreated, they can cause serious health issues over time. An underactive thyroid, known as hypothyroidism, can lead to complications such as heart disease, infertility, or nerve damage. On the other hand, an overactive thyroid, or hyperthyroidism, may increase the likelihood of developing osteoporosis and irregular heart rhythms.
Catching thyroid issues early is key to avoiding these risks. Regular testing, like the services provided by Epsom Blood Tests, can detect thyroid imbalances early, allowing for prompt treatment and better protection of your health.
How can I tell if my symptoms are due to a thyroid issue rather than stress or ageing?
Distinguishing thyroid-related symptoms from those caused by stress or ageing can be tricky because they often overlap. Symptoms like constant tiredness, weight fluctuations, mood changes, or trouble focusing can stem from a range of causes.
The most dependable way to check your thyroid's health is through a blood test. This test evaluates hormone levels to detect any imbalances, helping to determine if your symptoms are tied to thyroid issues. If these symptoms persist, a blood test can offer clarity and help you decide on the right course of action for your health.
What tests are included in a thyroid function panel, and what do they check for?
A thyroid function panel is a set of tests designed to assess the health of your thyroid gland by measuring key hormones and markers. Here's what it typically includes:
- TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone): This hormone reveals how effectively your thyroid responds to signals from the pituitary gland, which regulates its activity.
- Free T4 (Thyroxine): This test measures the primary hormone produced by the thyroid, which plays a crucial role in controlling metabolism and energy levels.
- Free T3 (Triiodothyronine): This checks the active form of thyroid hormone, which influences various bodily functions, from temperature regulation to heart rate.
In some cases, additional markers like thyroid antibodies might also be tested. These can help detect autoimmune conditions such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves’ disease. Analysing these results is key to identifying any imbalances and determining the best course of action.