Thyroid gland is a part of the endocrine system that is responsible for secreting hormones that keep the human body function normally. The thyroid gland contains two lobes making it look like a butterfly, and is situated right near the throat. The hormones secreted by thyroid gland are known to keep the body warm and also aids in the right functioning of brain, hearts, and other vital organs.
Thyroid gland secretes two major hormones named thyroxine called the T4, tri-iodothyronine called the T3. to keep the thyroid function stable the pituitary gland secreting Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), but when there is an increase or decrease in the T3 or T4 hormones, the pituitary gland senses to reduce the secretion of TSH to help the thyroid release the right amount of T3 and T4.
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What is meant by a thyroid test?
Thyroid function tests are often recommended to understand the functioning of thyroid gland. Generally blood tests are performed to notice any changes in the thyroid. In blood tests the TSH are checked first, as in case the TSH levels are normal then the thyroid is functioning normally. But T4 levels are checked simultaneously for accurate diagnosis. The T3 levels are checked in rare cases.
What are the healthy ranges of thyroid hormones?
If the TSH is ranged from 0.4 to 4.0 mU/L; T4 from 9.0 to 25.0 pmol/L; and T3 ranging from 3.5 to 7.9 pmol/L are considered normal and thyroid functioning.
What is the most effective way to diagnose an abnormal thyroid function?
Blood tests involved in testing the TSH, T4 and T3 hormones is considered the most effective testing procedure to identify any disturbances in the thyroid function. Although there are various tests like thyroid imaging tests. Speak to your doctor to understand the thyroid checkup price to make an informed decision.
How are thyroid imaging tests performed?
The thyroid imaging tests are generally performed after the blood analysis and these imaging procedures are highly effective in diagnosing any major lumps both cancerous and non-cancerous.
CT Thyroid scan:
In this type of imaging, a special dye is injected to highlight the areas of concerns, and this test helps identify the location of the thyroid gland,
Thyroid ultrasound:
This procedure makes use of the sound waves and helps in analyzing the size, position and shape of the thyroid gland. This test is performed by a handheld device and it is held against the skin near the throat.
What happens when the doctors diagnose a lump or nodule in the thyroid gland after the imaging procedures?
In case your thyroid doctor identifies a nodule or lump in your thyroid gland. Then the next set of steps involve a biopsy test in which a thin catheter is sent to the thyroid gland and a small piece of tissue is removed through the biopsy test and later analyzed in the lab to identify if it’s cancerous or non-cancerous.
Depending on the biopsy results the method of treatment is recommended.
What are the signs that indicate your thyroid isn’t functioning normally?
Disturbance in the function of thyroid gland can show some visible signs that might help you to seek medical help. Although not all people experience symptoms and also most symptoms differ from person to person and may also get mistaken for other health conditions. The signs of hypothyroidism are different from hyperthyroidism.
Common signs of hypothyroidism:
When a person has hypothyroidism, their thyroid gland produces very little thyroid hormone. Seeking hypothyroidism treatment once you notice these signs is important. The signs of hypothyroidism include:
- Excess sweating
- Sudden weight loss
- Thinning of hair
- Brittle or weak nails
- Nervousness
- Skin sensitivity
Common signs of hyperthyroidism include:
Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the thyroid secretes high levels of thyroid hormones. Most common signs include:
- Constipation
- Weakness in the muscles
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
- Brain fog
- Itchy and dry skin
- Sensitivity to cold
If you experience any of these symptoms it is advised to visit a thyroid check up doctor immediately to get yourself checked.
When is the right time to get your thyroid gland checked?
There are various conditions that may require a thyroid check. Few of the most common cases include:
- Signs of over or underactive thyroid gland
- Increased heart rate
- Visible thickening or swelling of the thyroid gland
- If you are an osteoporosis patient
- History of autoimmune disorders
- Facing fertility problems like abnormal periods
What are the complications that might follow if over or under functioning thyroid is not treated?
Complications of under functioning thyroid:
Under-functioning thyroid leads to hypothyroidism, if left untreated it can lead to:
Cardiovascular related problems:
Hypothyroidism is often related to poor cholesterol metabolism that might lead to build up of bad cholesterol leading to heart disorders.
Pregnancy concerns:
Ovulation can be disrupted by hypothyroidism, which reduces female fertility. High blood pressure during pregnancy and an increased chance of spontaneous miscarriage are both effects of untreated hypothyroidism.
Mental health concerns:
Depression can be quite commonly seen in hypothyroidism patients.
Fetal development: Untreated hypothyroidism increases the risk of major intellectual and developmental issues in offspring.
Complications with overactive thyroid:
Overactive thyroid or hyperthyroidism if not treated can lead to:
Weak or brittle bones:
A reduction in bone mineral density, or osteoporosis, can result with untreated hyperthyroidism. The body’s capacity to integrate calcium into bones is interfered with by an excess of thyroid hormone.
Skin problems:
Graves’ illness can cause Graves’ dermopathy, which impacts the skin and causes redness and swelling, most commonly on the shins and feet.
Eye disorders:
Graves’ ophthalmopathy causes visual abnormalities such as bulging, red or swollen eyes, light sensitivity, and double vision. Untreated severe eye conditions might cause vision loss.
Important Takeaway:
Your everyday activities and quality of life can be hampered by an overactive or underactive thyroid. A thyroid test helps identify the problem that’s causing your thyroid disease symptoms so your doctor can suggest the best course of action. Reach out to the thyroid checkup in Coimbatore to get your thyroid checked and treated if any abnormalities are detected.
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