Greenville SC Thyroid Clinic Answers – What is TSH?
You’ve lost that spring in your step. You’re not sleeping at night. You’re gaining weight. You suspect you might have a thyroid condition. Now what? Your doctor has decided to run some tests and one of these tests determines your TSH levels. What is TSH? Why did your doctor run this test? What do the results mean? If your TSH tests are not “normal” many doctors will prescribe medication to bring your results within the normal range. For many people, this medication doesn’t seem to help. Many people become frustrated and hopeless about their health. This doesn’t need to be the case.
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone or TSH is the hormone produced in the pituitary gland that aids in the function of the thyroid gland, and its release of two hormones called triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). Low levels of TSH indicate hyperthyroidism and high levels of TSH indicate hypothyroidism. The purpose of TSH is to tell your thyroid to release more hormones or fewer hormones. When the thyroid is functioning properly, it is in balance with the pituitary gland and you get a normal reading.
Your doctor may run this test because the symptoms that you describe are symptoms of a thyroid disorder. The two main thyroid disorders are hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. The tests are used to confirm a thyroid disorder in people suffering with symptoms. The symptoms you may be experiencing can include: insomnia, depression, anxiety, loss of libido, dry and thinning hair, constipation or fatigue to name a few.
For many patients, the TSH test does not provide the full picture of why you might not be feeling your best. Many areas of your current health status need to be addressed. The best way to have your condition thoroughly addressed is to work with a functional wellness practitioner. These practitioners take a comprehensive look at why you are feeling substandard. They will evaluate diet, nutrition and lifestyle choices that may have an impact on your thyroid function. They won’t rely on just one test to make adjustments. They will look at each patient on a one-on-one basis. Every patient is different so every approach to care will be different.
If you are exhibiting the symptoms of a thyroid disorder, meet with a functional wellness practitioner for testing. Your functional wellness practitioner will be able to determine if you have a thyroid issue. With their help and guidance you will be offered tools to get back to optimal health.
