Thyroid Disorder Monitoring

Thyroid disorder monitoring involves regular testing to check the levels of thyroid hormones in the body and to ensure that the thyroid gland is functioning properly. According to the CDC, monitoring the thyroid gland is very important because it plays a crucial role in regulating many of the body's functions, including metabolism, growth, and development.

What does thyroid disorder monitoring consist of?

The following tests are commonly used to monitor thyroid function, according to the Mayo Clinic:

• TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) test
• Free T4 (thyroxine) test
• Total T3 (triiodothyronine) test
• Thyroid antibody tests

When should I get thyroid disorder monitoring?

The frequency of monitoring your thyroid function will vary depending on your individual medical history, symptoms, and response to treatment, according to the CDC.

Typically, people with thyroid disorders will need to have their thyroid function checked every 6-12 months or more frequently if there are changes in symptoms or medication, notes the CDC. Your doctor can guide how frequently you need to have your thyroid checked.

What to expect with thyroid disorder monitoring

When monitoring thyroid disorders, you can expect to undergo various tests and examinations to check the levels of thyroid hormones in your body and ensure that your thyroid gland is functioning properly. The most common of these, according to the Mayo Clinic, is blood testing. However, you may also have other types of testing, such as:

• Physical examination
• Thyroid ultrasound

Understanding your thyroid disorder testing

Your doctor should go over your test results with you, as well as give insights on how your current treatment plan is working. According to the Mayo Clinic, here is what your thyroid monitoring tests could mean:

• TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) test: This test measures the level of TSH in the blood. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland and stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. A high TSH level can indicate an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), while a low TSH level can indicate an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).
• Free T4 (thyroxine) test: This test measures the level of free T4 in the blood. T4 is one of the main hormones produced by the thyroid gland and plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism. Low levels of free T4 can indicate hypothyroidism, while high levels can indicate hyperthyroidism.
• Total T3 (triiodothyronine) test: This test measures the level of total T3 in the blood. T3 is another hormone produced by the thyroid gland that plays a role in regulating metabolism. Low levels of T3 can indicate hypothyroidism, while high levels can indicate hyperthyroidism.
• Thyroid antibody tests: These tests measure the levels of antibodies produced by the immune system that can attack the thyroid gland. High levels of thyroid antibodies can indicate autoimmune thyroid diseases, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis or Graves' disease.

Finding thyroid disorder testing

Thyroid monitoring tests can be ordered by a physician in most healthcare settings, including:

• Walk-in clinics
• Urgent care clinics
• Primary care clinics

Can I monitor my thyroid disorder at home?

There are at-home thyroid tests available online or in pharmaceutical stores. However, it is important to note that the accuracy and reliability of at-home thyroid tests may vary, and they may not be suitable for diagnosing or monitoring thyroid disorders.

It is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider to interpret thyroid test results and determine the appropriate treatment.

Cost of thyroid disorder monitoring tests

The cost of thyroid testing will vary depending on the type of test you are receiving and the location of the testing facility. Other factors like your insurance coverage will also affect the cost.

The national average cost for a thyroid panel blood test is around $114, while the cost for a TSH blood test ranges from $40 to $100, according to FindLabTest.com. However, it is important to note that these costs may not reflect the actual price, as insurance coverage and negotiated rates with healthcare providers can significantly impact the final cost.

More about thyroid disorders

What is a thyroid disorder?

A thyroid disorder is a condition that affects the function of the thyroid gland—a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck that produces and releases hormones that help regulate many bodily functions, according to the American Thyroid Association (ATA).

The ATA also notes that thyroid disorders are classified into two main types:

• Hypothyroidism - when the thyroid gland is not producing enough hormones, which can lead to a slower metabolism
• Hyperthyroidism - when the thyroid gland is producing too many hormones, which can lead to a faster metabolism

There are other types of thyroid disorders, as noted by the ATA, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Graves' disease, thyroid nodules, and thyroid cancer.

Symptoms of a thyroid disorder

Thyroid problems can cause a wide range of symptoms, which can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Here are some common symptoms to look out for, according to the ATA and Mayo Clinic:

Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid):

• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Cold intolerance
• Constipation
• Dry skin
• Hair loss
• Depression
• Cognitive impairment
• Menstrual irregularities
• Muscle weakness

Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid):

• Weight loss
• Rapid heart rate
• Heat intolerance
• Sweating
• Anxiety
• Tremors
• Diarrhea
• Insomnia
• Eye problems (in Graves' disease)
• Menstrual irregularities

Thyroid nodules:

• Lump or swelling in the neck
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing (if the nodule is large)
• Hoarseness or voice changes

Thyroid cancer:

• Lump or swelling in the neck
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing (if the tumor is large)
• Hoarseness or voice changes
• Pain in the neck or throat

It is important to note that not everyone with thyroid problems will experience symptoms, and some symptoms may be mild or nonspecific. It is recommended to discuss any concerns about thyroid symptoms with a healthcare provider.