Thyroid gland function

For men and women, but for women in particular, who are feeling tired and lethargic and unable to explain why, these tests check the functioning of the thyroid gland. An under-active thyroid gland can result in dry skin and hair, depression and constipation as well. Medical Director, Dr Colin Clelland says “The TSH test is recommended by the American Thyroid Association for screening for thyroid disorders and is available through Oxford Screening. Thyroid conditions can be difficult to diagnose as the symptoms may be non-specific and these tests give men and women the opportunity to check quickly and easily.”  

The thyroid gland in the neck produces hormones that regulate the metabolism. Too little hormone from an underactive gland can result in a condition called hypothyroidism that is commonest in women and may go undiagnosed for some time as the symptoms are non-specific. TSH is the hormone that stimulates the thyroid gland. If the thyroid gland is underactive the TSH level is high and the test detects a high level of TSH. Samples taken during pregnancy and IVF can be falsely negative. Rarely the TSH may be low in hypothyroidism so women with significant symptoms and a negative test should still contact their doctor.

underactive thyroid test

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