What is the thyroid?
The thyroid gland is located in the neck (above the collarbone). It is butterfly-shaped and is one of the endocrine glands responsible for producing hormones ; these hormones control the rhythm of many bodily activities, including how fast the heart beats and the rate at which calories are burned.
The specialist may order laboratory and imaging tests to give a more accurate diagnosis.
Symptoms of alteration
Hyperthyroidism or overactive thyroid
- Anxiety
- Weight loss
- Tremors in the hands
- Faster heart rate
- Swelling
- Protrusion of the eyes (bulging)
- Difficulty to sleep
Hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid
- Weight gain
- Tiredness
- Hair loss
- Low tolerance to cold temperatures
- Irregular menstrual periods
- Constipation
Lab tests
Laboratory tests tell us if the thyroid gland is functioning correctly and help the specialist diagnose the cause of thyroid diseases (hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism).
Blood tests include:
- TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone): It is the most accurate measure of thyroid activity.
- T3 and T4: They measure different hormones of the thyroid.
- TSI: Measures thyroid stimulating immunoglobulin.
- Thyroid Antibody Test: Measures the amount of antibodies (indicators in the blood).