3 reasons to get a thyroid test at home

3 reasons to get a thyroid test at home

The home thyroid test is a test in which the sample can be collected at home and sent to a laboratory for testing. The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the neck and is responsible for many activities in the body. It controls metabolism and various functions of organs and influences weight, energy levels, memory, heart rate and more. The thyroid itself is activated by thyroid-stimulating hormone (commonly referred to as TSH), which is produced by the pituitary gland.

Since TSH triggers the actual production of thyroid hormones, a thyroid test is actually a test for measuring TSH and can therefore also be referred to as a TSH test. Higher than normal TSH levels indicate hyperthyroidism and lower levels indicate hypothyroidism.

There are very compelling reasons to choose home thyroid testing. Some of them have been mentioned here for your consideration.

1. Hyperthyroidism can cause excessive and sudden weight loss, fatigue, restlessness, insomnia, tremor, heart palpitations and muscle atrophy. These symptoms are not easily associated with hyperthyroidism as these symptoms are sometimes taken lightly. Only by having regular thyroid tests can you assess the true nature of the problem. Similarly, hypothyroidism can cause weight gain, depression, constipation, hair loss, memory loss and dry skin. These symptoms also cannot be easily linked to low thyroid activity unless thyroid tests are done to confirm.

2. The numbers show that there are probably 13 million Americans or more who suffer from thyroid problems without even knowing it. A home thyroid test helps you determine thyroid levels in the comfort of your own home, so you don't miss out on checking a simple thing like this just because a doctor or hospital is inconvenient or expensive. A simple TSH test done at home can help you understand whether your TSH falls within the normal range or is higher or lower. You can then seek professional medical advice for treatment.

3. In addition to the above, there are various patients who are treated for specific complaints or receive symptomatic treatment without really knowing the true cause of the problem simply because a thyroid test has not been performed. A simple and convenient home thyroid test can help you understand the cause of your symptoms.

The home thyroid test kits available require just a few drops of blood placed into a collection chamber. In some home thyroid tests, the sample is collected at home and then sent in a special shipping bag to a laboratory for testing. Such a procedure is also more convenient compared to a thyroid test, where you have to go to the laboratory yourself.

The sooner you take the first step to get a thyroid test, the sooner you can start proper treatment if you have any symptoms. Our TSH home test is a great tool for men and women who want to take this step.

Inspired by Anne Hamilton