The TSH test results explained in the following article will help you interpret your blood test results partly, before you visit your doctor for further consultation. Read on to know more about this diagnostic test.
The thyroid gland is located in the neck just above Adam’s apple. This gland secretes thyroid hormones that play a part in various body functions involving growth and metabolism. If the thyroid gland is not functioning to its optimum level, it can lead to health problems. These problems include high thyroid levels, known as hyperthyroidism, or under secretion of hormones may lead to low thyroid levels, known as hypothyroidism. Thus, to monitor thyroid problems, a doctor orders a thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) blood test.
Explanation for Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Blood Test
This explanation is based on laboratory interpretations of the results. You should speak to your doctor for a correct diagnosis of your condition. The TSH test normal range is between 0.5 to 4.5/5.0 mlU/L. Anything above or below the TSH test normal range indicates a thyroid problem. Thyroid stimulating hormone is secreted by the pituitary gland. This hormone helps in regulation of the thyroid gland. Any abnormality with the thyroid gland will have an effect on the TSH levels in the body.
What Do High TSH Levels Mean?
High TSH blood test results indicate a underactive thyroid gland, that is, hypothyroidism. This means that the thyroid gland is not producing thyroid hormones to the optimum level. The pituitary gland releases more TSH hormones to stimulate the thyroid gland to produce more hormone. A high TSH level indicates some acute or chronic problems related to thyroid dysfunction. High TSH blood test results also indicate that there may be some problem with the pituitary gland. A tumor may cause high TSH levels to be secreted by the pituitary gland. Patients who have undergone thyroid gland removal surgery may also show high TSH blood tests results. This means they are not being administered the correct dose of thyroid medication that keeps the hormone production in check.
What does Low TSH Levels Mean?
Low TSH blood test results indicate an overactive thyroid gland, that is, hyperthyroidism. Also, low TSH blood test results indicate a patient is being administered excessive doses of thyroid hormone medication, in case of hormone replacement therapy. In very rare cases, low TSH level indicate towards damage or problems with the pituitary gland.
An abnormal TSH level result always indicates excess or deficiency in thyroid hormone levels. However, these test results to do not indicate the causes of the low or high-test result. The test results explained in the following TSH levels chart will make it easy for you to understand a probable condition.
| T4 Levels | T3 Levels | TSH Levels | Interpretation of Results |
| Normal | Normal | Low | Mild hyperthyroidism |
| High/normal | High/normal | Low | Hyperthyroidism |
| Normal | Normal | High | Mild hypothyroidism |
| Low | Low/normal | High | Hypothyroidism |
This was all about thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) blood test explained. The test results explained by your doctor will help in diagnosing your thyroid levels correctly. If you are worried about either hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, you doctor is the best person to approach for further consultation and treatment. Those suffering from hyperthyroidism may be prescribed drugs such as Synthroid, Levoxyl, Armour or Thyrolar. Low thyroid levels may be treated by medications and treatments that help in increasing the hormone levels. The above paragraphs will help you interpret your blood test results, before you get a chance to visit your doctor. Take care!
DISCLAIMER
The information in this article is intended as a supplement to, not as a substitute for, the expert and professional medical prevention, diagnosis, or treatment of a healthcare professional. The reader is advised to consult with a medical consultant before taking any home remedies, supplements or following any treatment advised. A medical consultant will be able to provide the reader with advice that is safe and effective for an individual’s specific needs and diagnose a particular health problem based on their personal medical history.
