Why Thyroid Testing Matters
The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland in your neck that produces hormones controlling your metabolism, energy levels, heart rate, and body temperature. Thyroid disorders affect an estimated 42 million people in India, making thyroid testing one of the most commonly ordered blood tests.
Key Thyroid Tests
TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)
- <strong>What it measures</strong>: How much TSH your pituitary gland is producing to stimulate the thyroid
- <strong>Normal range</strong>: 0.4 - 4.0 mIU/L
- <strong>High TSH</strong>: May indicate hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
- <strong>Low TSH</strong>: May indicate hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
Free T4 (Thyroxine)
- <strong>What it measures</strong>: The active, unbound form of the main thyroid hormone
- <strong>Normal range</strong>: 0.8 - 1.8 ng/dL
- <strong>Low levels</strong>: Suggest hypothyroidism
- <strong>High levels</strong>: Suggest hyperthyroidism
Free T3 (Triiodothyronine)
- <strong>What it measures</strong>: The most active thyroid hormone
- <strong>Normal range</strong>: 2.3 - 4.2 pg/mL
- <strong>Important for</strong>: Diagnosing hyperthyroidism and monitoring treatment
Anti-TPO Antibodies
- <strong>What it measures</strong>: Antibodies against thyroid peroxidase enzyme
- <strong>Why it matters</strong>: Elevated levels indicate autoimmune thyroid disease (Hashimoto's or Graves')
Common Thyroid Disorders
Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid): Fatigue, weight gain, cold sensitivity, dry skin, constipation, depression.
Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid): Weight loss, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, tremors, heat sensitivity, increased sweating.
Who Should Get Tested?
- Women over 35 (especially during pregnancy)
- Anyone with a family history of thyroid disease
- People experiencing unexplained weight changes, fatigue, or mood changes
- Those with other autoimmune conditions
Thyroid Testing at Shreeji Lab
We offer a complete thyroid profile including TSH, T3, T4, Free T3, Free T4, and Anti-TPO antibodies. Our automated immunoassay analyzer provides precise results, typically within the same day.