A thyroid function test measures thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), which the pituitary gland makes to drive the thyroid. At The Wellness in Marylebone it costs from £350, as the Core Wellness panel, with results in 24 to 48 hours and a doctor to explain the result.
A thyroid function test measures thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), which the pituitary gland makes to drive the thyroid. A full panel adds FT4 and FT3, the unbound forms of the hormones the thyroid itself releases.
Thyroid antibodies, included in the Advanced panel, show whether the immune system is acting against the gland, which is the commonest cause of an underactive thyroid.
A doctor may ask for it if you are tired, gaining or losing weight without a reason, feel the cold or the heat more than others, have a fast heartbeat, or have heavy or irregular periods.
It is also used to check the dose for anyone already taking thyroid medicine.
Stop biotin supplements two days before, because biotin can make a thyroid result read wrongly. If you take levothyroxine, take your dose after the sample unless your doctor says otherwise.
Often it is the right first test. FT4, FT3 and antibodies help when the TSH is abnormal, when symptoms continue despite a normal TSH, or when treatment is being adjusted.
It is in the Advanced panel, and the Core panel has TSH alone.
Choose a panel and a time for the draw in clinic. A doctor reads the result before it reaches you, and rings or writes with what it means and what to do next. Or ring 020 3951 3429.