14 Oct What is a TSH Blood Test, and Can You Get it at Home?

You may be familiar with the thyroid gland or thyroid hormone, but did you know that there is a gland in your brain that tells your thyroid gland whether to produce more or less thyroid hormone?

In this article, we will explain what a TSH blood test is, the benefits of a TSH test, the reasons for getting tested, and compare your options of doing a DIY test or getting a test from an in-home medical service.

What is a TSH blood test?

A TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) test is a blood test used to measure your thyroid levels. This test is sometimes called a thyrotropin test.

The thyroid hormone is made by a small, butterfly-shaped gland (also called a thyroid) near your throat. This hormone and the other hormones your thyroid gland creates can:

• Regulate body temperature
• Mood
• Muscle strength
• Weight
• How your body uses energy

The pituitary gland makes TSH in your brain. When you have low thyroid levels, your pituitary gland responds by making more TSH. When your thyroid levels are high, your pituitary gland produces less TSH.

If your TSH levels are too high or too low, it could mean that your thyroid is not working correctly.

What are the benefits of a TSH test?

A TSH test can be used to diagnose thyroid problems. You should get a TSH test if you are having symptoms of low thyroid levels in your blood (hypothyroidism) or high thyroid levels in your blood (hyperthyroidism).

When will I need a TSH test?

Your healthcare provider will likely order a TSH test if they suspect you have hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).

Symptoms of an underactive thyroid include:

• Anxiety
• Bulging eyes
• Difficulty sleeping
• Increased heart rate
• Tremors in your hands
• Weight loss

Symptoms of an overactive thyroid include:

• Constipation
• Irregular menstrual periods
• Hair loss
• Low tolerance for cold temperatures
• Tiredness
• Weight gain

DIY TSH test vs. in-home medical service

You can get a DIY TSH test you can do at Home, but you also have the option of choosing to have a TSH test done by an in-home medical service such as Concierge MD.

Often, DIY test results do not offer all the information needed. Of course, you would get the test results, but that is usually where it ends. You are not likely to receive an explanation of what your results mean or be given any recommendations for further testing or treatment from a lab that makes a DIY test.

If you choose Concierge MD, we will send a member of our medical team to your Home to administer the test for you, and they will send the blood sample directly to our lab. When your results are in, we will contact you to discuss what your results are and what they mean, as well as let you know if you should get any other tests done or if you need treatment.

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