Thyroid Testing: Beyond Weight and Energy

The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck. It plays a vital role in the body’s metabolism, which is the process by which the body converts food into energy. The thyroid produces hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism and energy levels, while also helping to regulate body temperature, heart rate, and the production of proteins. These hormones are also important for proper brain development and function, and they play a role in the regulation of mood.

If the thyroid gland is not functioning properly, it can cause a variety of symptoms and health problems. Hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) can cause fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance. Hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid) can cause weight loss, anxiety, and tremors.

The Importance of Thyroid Testing

An imbalance in thyroid hormone levels can cause a variety of symptoms, including weight gain or loss, fatigue, irritability, and changes in heart rate and skin texture. By completing a thyroid panel, your healthcare provider can determine whether your thyroid gland is functioning properly and, if necessary, prescribe treatment to help regulate your thyroid hormone levels. This can help to improve your overall health and well-being.

How to Test Your Thyroid

There are several blood tests that can be used to evaluate the function of the thyroid gland. These tests measure the levels of thyroid hormones and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in the blood.

The most common thyroid function tests are:

1. TSH test: This test measures the amount of TSH in the blood. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland and helps to regulate the production of thyroid hormones. High levels of TSH may indicate an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), while low levels may indicate an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).
2. T4 test: This test measures the amount of thyroxine (T4) in the blood. T4 is a thyroid hormone that helps to regulate the body’s metabolism. High levels of T4 may indicate an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), while low levels may indicate an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).
3. T3 test: This test measures the amount of triiodothyronine (T3) in the blood. T3 is a thyroid hormone that helps to regulate the body’s metabolism. High levels of T3 may indicate an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), while low levels may indicate an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).
4. Thyroid antibody test: This test measures the levels of thyroid antibodies in the blood. High levels of thyroid antibodies may indicate autoimmune thyroiditis, a condition in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland.

How to Get a Thyroid Panel

Wellacy (AKA FastLabs) removes the confusion, hurdles, and time associated with medical laboratory testing by offering direct-to-consumer (DTC) testing. This allows you to order certain laboratory tests without a physician’s order. It is important to note that DTC testing is not a substitute for a visit to a healthcare provider.

If you are feeling fatigued, have gained weight, or find yourself intolerant to cold a thyroid panel may be the right choice to monitor your symptoms. At our offices, a small blood sample will be taken from your arm. The blood sample will be sent to our laboratory for analysis. The results of the tests will be available within 24 hours. If you would like to speak to a medical professional about your results, Wellacy (AKA FastLabs) has a team of licensed professionals ready to meet with you!

Appointments at Wellacy Are Available NOW

Visit Wellacy/FastLab’s new South Miami location at 6193 Sunset Dr, South Miami FL 33143 – across the street from South Miami Hospital and close to Larkin Hospital. This new state-of-the-art laboratory offers a FULL menu of laboratory testing and diagnostic options for patients. Appointments can be made directly on the Wellacy (AKA FastLabs) website, www.wellacy.com. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments are recommended. Call (305) 741-2655 or email info@wellacy.com to find out more!