What is Thyroid Profile Test ?
A thyroid profile (T3, T4, TSH) test refers to a set of blood tests that measures the levels of the thyroid hormones secreted from the thyroid gland. It is also known as the thyroid function test. The thyroid gland is located at the front part of the neck and it produces thyroid hormones namely: triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). The secretion of thyroid hormone is regulated by thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Thyroid hormones are responsible for maintaining certain processes in the body including metabolism, energy generation, mood, etc. The thyroid profile test includes the test of TSH, T3, and T4. The tests are designed to differentiate hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism from the euthyroid state.
TFTs may be requested if a patient is thought to suffer from hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism or to monitor the effectiveness of either thyroid suppression or hormone replacement therapy.
Thyroid disorders stemming from the over-or under-production of thyroid hormones, you want to try to restore the hormone levels to their proper balance. Hyperthyroidism needs treatment that will slow down the making of thyroid hormone, while hypothyroidism needs hormone replacement.
Drugs and surgery are usually effective ways to adjust hormone levels. Other treatments, including diet supplements, herbal remedies, and special exercises, may relieve some of the discomforts and help the thyroid gland work better.
Your doctor can diagnose hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism by testing the levels of thyroid hormones in your blood. The tests measure hormones from the thyroid itself, as well as thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), a chemical released by the pituitary gland that triggers your thyroid.
When you are hypothyroid, you have higher TSH levels because your body is trying to tell your thyroid to make more hormones. The reverse is true with hyperthyroidism TSH levels are below normal and thyroid hormone levels are high.
Why do you need to do a thyroid profile test?
The thyroid profile test is one of the common tests prescribed among all the laboratory tests. It shows the complete thyroid profile and helps monitor the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. The tests help measure the levels of thyroid hormones in your blood and can diagnose hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is often associated with nervousness, weight loss, rapid heartbeat, hand tremor, excessive sweating, sleep problems, etc. Similarly, hypothyroidism is also associated with depression, heart failure, coma, etc.
What parameters are measured in Thyroid Profile (T3, T4, TSH)?
Thyroid functions tests help to evaluate the functioning of the thyroid gland by monitoring the following parameters:
- The level of TSH hormone
- Total levels of T4
- Total levels of T3
