by What are Thyroid Function Tests?
Thyroid function tests, also known as thyroid panel tests, measure the levels of thyroid hormones (T4 and T3) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in the blood. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland and acts as a messenger that prompts the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. The three main thyroid function tests include:
– TSH test: Measures the level of TSH in the blood. High or low TSH levels indicate issues with thyroid function.
– T4 (Thyroxine) test: Measures the level of T4 hormone circulating in the blood.
– T3 test: Measures the level of T3 hormone, which is the active form of thyroid hormone.
Additional tests like T3 uptake, free T4 index (FTI), and antibodies tests are also sometimes recommended depending on medical history and symptoms. Monitoring thyroid hormone levels helps diagnose thyroid disorders early.
Common Thyroid Disorders in India
Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are among the most common thyroid disorders seen in India.
Hypothyroidism: This occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones. It is one of the most widespread endocrine disorders in India, with studies estimating its prevalence to be around 10% of the population. Left untreated, it can cause weight gain, fatigue, joint pain, and cardiac issues.
Hyperthyroidism: It’s caused by the overproduction of thyroid hormones. Its common symptoms include weight loss, anxiety, tremors, palpitations, and eye problems. Graves’ disease is the leading cause of hyperthyroidism in India.
Importance of Thyroid Function Tests
Regular thyroid function India Thyroid Function Test play a vital role in early diagnosis and management of thyroid conditions in India:
– Detects abnormalities: Baseline and follow-up thyroid function tests help detect any deviations from normal thyroid levels, which may indicate present or future thyroid disorders.
– Screens high-risk groups: Women, the elderly, and those with a family history of thyroid issues must get screened routinely as they are at an increased risk of thyroid problems.
– Monitors treatment: Tests are recommended every 6-8 weeks after starting medication for hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. This helps doctors adjust doses and check treatment effectiveness.
– Identifies subclinical issues: Mild fluctuations in thyroid levels may remain asymptomatic but can progress. Regular screening helps identify and address subclinical thyroid abnormalities.
– Prevents complications: Undetected or poorly managed thyroid disorders increase the chances of infertility, heart issues, osteoporosis, and other health risks. Timely testing and treatment prevents complications.
– Promotes wellness: Optimal thyroid health ensures normal growth and development during childhood and supports metabolic activities and energy levels in adults. Maintaining thyroid hormone balance through regular testing allows people to live actively.
Therefore, thyroid function tests enable early detection, effective management, prevention of co-morbidities, and overall well-being – underscoring their importance, especially in India with high prevalence of thyroid conditions.
Who Should Get Tested?
While thyroid problems can affect anyone, certain groups would benefit more from periodic thyroid testing:
– Women, especially during pregnancy and menopause: Hormonal changes affect thyroid function. Testing ensures uninterrupted treatment.
– Those with family history: Thyroid issues tend to run in families. Genetic predisposition warrants routine screening.
– Elderly individuals: Risk of thyroid dysfunction increases with age. Early diagnosis helps curb age-related complications.
– Anyone experiencing symptoms: Fatigue, weight changes, mood swings, and other nonspecific complaints could point to an underlying thyroid issue.
– People with comorbid conditions: Diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, etc. have links to thyroid abnormalities.
– Residents of iodine-deficient areas: Low iodine intake raises chances of hypothyroidism, especially in children.
Getting tested every 3-5 years is advisable if one doesn’t have any risk factors. High-risk groups may need annual or more frequent testing based on doctor’s advice.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
