The thyroid is the most important gland in our body. It performs diverse functions and is responsible for streamlining metabolism. Excess or less secretion of the thyroid hormone will result in altering the entire body’s function. There will be changes in the heart rate and brain functioning. There will be disruptions in the digestive system and muscle development. According to the Department of Diabetes and Endocrine Sciences, consuming good amounts of iodine helps streamline the functioning of the thyroid gland. We can identify the appropriate functioning of this gland with the help of thyroid function tests.
Thyroid function tests and their uses:
Thyroid function tests help us to diagnose common thyroid problems and diseases. There are three types of hormones that the thyroid gland secretes. By measuring the amount of these hormones in the blood, doctors will diagnose thyroid problems. Let us discuss these hormones in detail here.
- T3: This is the first hormone that the thyroid gland secretes. It is also known as tri-iodo-thyronine.
- Excess levels of T3 in the blood indicate hyperthyroidism.
- That is, the gland is producing the hormone in excess.
- T4: This is also known as thyroxine hormone.
- This is also a type of hormone that the thyroid gland secretes.
- Too much or too low T4 levels in the blood indicate problems with the thyroid gland.
- TSH: High or low TSH levels are an indication of common thyroid problems and diseases. The pituitary gland in the body releases thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
- The pituitary is the master gland that commands other glands.
- When thyroxine levels are too low in the body, the pituitary releases TSH to stimulate the gland to produce more T3 and T4.
- When TSH levels are higher in the blood, it indicates that the thyroid gland is not working properly on its own.
- Higher TSH levels indicate hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone in the blood.)
Hypothyroidism and its symptoms:
Hypothyroidism means an underactive thyroid gland, according to the Department Of Diabetes and Endocrine Sciences. It means that the gland is not working properly and is not secreting enough hormones. It could be lower levels of either T3, T4, or both. Symptoms of hypothyroidism are as follows.
- Excess weight gain
- Dry skin that looks dull
- Fatigue all through the day
- Dry hair
- Thinning of hair is also common
- Staying sensitive to very cold temperatures
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Fertility problems
- Depression
- Very slow heart rate
Hyperthyroidism and its symptoms
According to the experts at the Department Of Diabetes and Endocrine Sciences, an overactive thyroid gland is known as hyperthyroidism. It means that the gland is secreting more hormones than what the body requires. Common symptoms of hyperthyroidism are as follows.
- Nervousness and irritability
- Weakness in the muscles and anxiety
- Increase in appetite, but still weight loss will be there
- Excess sweating and being sensitive to light
- Irregular heartbeat
- Frequent bowel movement
- Enlargement in the neck (goiter)
- Trouble sleeping.
Abnormal TSH levels are also a common thyroid problem and disease. The symptoms will be similar to those of hypothyroidism.
FAQ:
Will I have swelling in my neck if I have a thyroid problem?
Enlargement in the neck is known as goiter. This is common in those with hyperthyroidism. As the gland is struggling to produce excess hormones, it will enlarge. And it will present as a swelling in the neck region.
Bottom Line:
Experts from the Department Of Diabetes and Endocrine Sciences indicate that it is important to maintain proper thyroid health. When the levels are abnormal, it might affect one’s fertility and general body functioning. It is thus mandatory to maintain healthy thyroid levels and optimal functioning of the gland.
