Thyroid Panel
Comprehensive evaluation of thyroid function to diagnose and monitor thyroid disorders
About This Test
A Thyroid Panel is a group of tests that measures the levels of thyroid hormones and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in your blood. The thyroid is a small gland in your neck that produces hormones that regulate your metabolism, energy levels, and overall growth and development.
This comprehensive panel typically includes tests for TSH, free T4, and sometimes T3 levels, providing a complete picture of your thyroid function. It's an essential diagnostic tool for thyroid disorders like hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
Why Get Tested?
A Thyroid Panel may be recommended if you have symptoms of thyroid dysfunction or if you're being monitored for a known thyroid disorder. Common reasons include:
- Unexplained weight changes
- Fatigue or energy changes
- Mood changes, depression, or anxiety
- Hair loss
- Irregular menstrual periods
- Intolerance to cold or heat
- Monitoring effectiveness of thyroid medication
- Screening if you have a family history of thyroid disease
What to Expect
The Thyroid Panel is a simple blood test that requires only a small sample of blood, typically drawn from a vein in your arm using a small needle. The procedure takes less than five minutes and most people feel only a slight pinch when the needle is inserted.
For the most accurate results, you should inform your healthcare provider about any medications you're taking, as some can affect thyroid hormone levels. Biotin supplements should be stopped at least 72 hours before the test.
Results are usually available within 24-48 hours and will be reviewed by our healthcare professionals who can explain what they mean for your health.
Frequently Asked Questions
A comprehensive thyroid panel typically measures Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), Free T4 (thyroxine), and sometimes Free T3 (triiodothyronine). TSH is produced by the pituitary gland and regulates thyroid function, while T4 and T3 are the actual thyroid hormones that affect metabolism and other body functions.
In most cases, no special preparation is needed for a thyroid panel. However, you should inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you're taking, as some can affect results. Biotin supplements should be stopped at least 72 hours before testing, as they can interfere with thyroid test results.
Abnormal thyroid levels can be caused by various conditions including Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Graves' disease, thyroid nodules, pregnancy, certain medications, iodine deficiency or excess, and pituitary gland disorders. Stress, illness, and aging can also impact thyroid function.
If you're being treated for a thyroid disorder, your doctor might recommend testing every 6-12 months, or more frequently when adjusting medication. For general screening, recommendations vary, but many healthcare providers suggest checking thyroid function every 5 years after age 35, especially for women.
Yes, you can eat and drink normally before most thyroid tests. However, for the most consistent results, some providers recommend having the test done in the morning before taking thyroid medication (if you're on it). Always follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions.