The thyroid gland, situated in close proximity to the base of your neck and directly beneath your larynx (voice box), plays a crucial role in regulating bodily functions that involve the breakdown of food into energy, collectively known as metabolism. Two hormones, T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine), produced by the thyroid gland, are responsible for assisting in the control of metabolism, which in turn may influence several aspects such as weight gain or loss, heart rate, and breathing depth. Furthermore, these hormones can aid in regulating cholesterol levels, body temperature, and menstrual cycles.
Additionally, the thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate the body's metabolic rate, which affects essential functions like bone growth and maintenance, heart, muscle, and digestive function.
In a properly functioning thyroid, T4 and T3 hormones are produced in appropriate levels, guiding the cells in the body on how much energy to use. Replacement hormones are also produced by the thyroid gland as necessary.
Why is the thyroid test done?
A blood test called a thyroid test measures the hormone levels your thyroid gland produces. The test also measures your thyroid gland's response to a hormone produced by your brain's pituitary gland. TSH fluctuations can act as an "early warning system," frequently happening before the body's amount of thyroid hormones reaches an unhealthy high or low. Thyroxine (T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which act together and are typically in balance, are two separate hormones.
A high TSH level indicates that the thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroid hormone. When the TSH level is low, the opposite circumstance typically means that the Thyroid is overproducing thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism). Rarely, a pituitary condition that prohibits the gland from releasing enough TSH to stimulate the thyroid may be the cause of a low TSH (secondary hypothyroidism). In most of healthy individuals, a normal TSH value means that the thyroid is functioning normally.
Can you check thyroid at-home?
A blood examination, commonly known as a thyroid test, is conducted to measure the hormone levels produced by the thyroid gland, as well as its response to a hormone produced by the pituitary gland in the brain.
Self-examination of the neck can aid in early detection and identification of any lumps or enlargements that may indicate a potential thyroid issue. At-home thyroid test kits can facilitate this process.
Why is Thyroid important?
The thyroid gland, a vital endocrine gland, plays a crucial role in human growth, development, and metabolism. By regularly releasing thyroid hormones into the circulatory system, it regulates several body processes.
The thyroid gland produces two primary hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), using iodine from the diet. Maintaining adequate levels of these hormones is essential for optimal health, as they control the speed and functioning of nearly all the body's cells and metabolism. The pituitary and hypothalamus glands in the brain work together to sustain these hormone levels within the required range.
The proper functioning of the thyroid gland is critical for overall body health, as it ensures that the cells receive sufficient thyroid hormone to work at the appropriate speed and efficiency. Thyroid hormones regulate essential processes such as:
- Breathing
- Heart rate
- Central and peripheral nervous system function
- Body weight
- Muscle strength
- Menstrual cycles
- Body temperature
- Cholesterol levels
- Metabolism
Causes of low Thyroid
Here are possible causes of low Thyroid in the human body:
- Hashimoto's Disease
- Surgery on the Thyroid Gland
- Treatment with Radiation
- Thyroid Swelling
- Medicines
What does a Thyroid function test outcome mean?
Your TSH test results may reveal whether your thyroid is manufacturing too much or too little thyroid. The test cannot determine whether your TSH levels are excessively high or excessively low.
Your doctor will likely order more thyroid blood tests if your test results are abnormal in order to pinpoint the source of your thyroid problem. These blood tests might include:
- T4 thyroid hormone test
- T3 thyroid hormone test
- An abnormal TSH result may occasionally indicate a pituitary gland issue, but this is uncommon.
How to regulate Thyroid levels?
There are several ways to regulate thyroid levels, depending on the underlying cause and severity of the imbalance. Some of these are:
Watch your diet
A maintaining healthy thyroid can only be sustained by eating a healthy diet. Consume processed foods, Trans fats, refined sugar, preservatives, and colors in moderation. Instead, choose more heart-healthy fats and omega-3-rich foods like fatty fish, extra-virgin olive, canola, sunflower, safflower, groundnut, coconut, and avocado oils, nut butters, lean protein, beans, and probiotics.
Exercise
Exercise increases metabolism naturally, and there are special exercises for digestion. For those with hypothyroidism or at risk for it, exercising at least three times a week for at least 40 minutes is recommended.
Schedule regular doctor visits
Thyroid problems share symptoms with numerous other health conditions. That's why regular medical checkups can help you detect any potential symptoms in their early stages and manage them effectively.
