Comprehensive Thyroid Test

Should You Do a Thyroid Test?

A  comprehensive thyroid test can determine if there are abnormalities in your thyroid function. This is one of the most common endocrine disorders – affecting millions worldwide. Thyroid hormones are well known for their role in basal metabolic rate, development and growth. Low function (hypothyroidism) affects approximately 4-5% of the population whilst estimates for over-function (hyperthyroidism) are 0.4-2%.

Thyroid abnormalities has become a quiet epidemic worldwide. The thyroid has just one job, however, it is one of the most important jobs for the body to function properly. The thyroid makes hormones that regulate the energy level, growth, and reproduction of every cell of your body. That means your brain, heart, lungs, liver, skin, tissues and other body parts depend on your thyroid to stay “powered up” and active, and to remain healthy by generating new cells to replace old ones.

The thyroid profile extensive is a hormone test designed to provide a comprehensive analysis of thyroid hormone metabolism. It includes central thyroid gland regulation and activity, thyroid production and secretion, peripheral thyroid conversion, and thyroid autoimmunity. This extensive thyroid panel allows the practitioner to pinpoint common imbalances that may be causing chronic illnesses. The comprehensive panel measures levels of TSH, free T4, free T3, reverse T3, anti-TG antibodies, and anti-TPO antibodies to assess central and peripheral thyroid function, as well as thyroid auto-immunity.

When Should I Consider Taking A Thyroid Test?

The list of possible symptoms from low thyroid function is long, but includes; weight gain (and/or difficulty losing weight), feeling cold/poor circulation or intolerant to cold, dry skin and hair, hair loss, thinning eyebrows, constipation, depression, memory impairment, apathy, muscle cramps and /or muscle pain, fluid retention, slow heart rate, high cholesterol, irregular or heavy menstrual periods, infertility.

Symptoms of an overactive thyroid include:  Fatigue, trouble concentrating, weight loss, hot/heat intolerance, increased sweating, loose or frequent bowel movements (if this is your main symptom, then checking for SIBO is your priority), anxiety and restlessness, irritability, insomnia, feeling “over-revved”, muscle weakness, shortness of breath, racing heart (palpitations), hypertension, irregular menstrual periods, infertility.

Thyroid function testing should also be considered in all high risk populations including the ageing population, women who have recently given birth, those with autoimmune disorders, or a family history of autoimmune thyroid disorders and patients with previous head, neck or thyroid surgery.

What Does the Thyroid Do?

Thyroid hormones are well known for their role in basal metabolic rate; however, they also affect development and growth. The thyroid hormones interact with receptors found in the nucleus of every cell of the body and this interaction leads to the turning on and off of many genes and ultimately to the modification of many bodily functions. Therefore, it is understandable that abnormalities in the level of thyroid hormones can lead to a diverse array of symptoms involving the heart, brain, skin and reproductive systems.

What is the Method used for the Thyroid Test?

The laboratory uses Automated Chemistry and RIA to analyse your sample.

Are there other things that can help me?

YES.. We recommend a comprehensive appointment with one of our Registered Naturopaths to take a comprehensive health, nutrition and medical history. You are more than your thyroid!

Can other Hormones be Tested at the same time?

Not from this sample. If you want to test your adrenal hormones or sex hormones PLUS adrenal hormones as well, you can order them separately. If you aren’t sure, please call us on 09 8465566

Is there any Special Preparation for the Thyroid Test?

No. Order your Comprehensive Thyroid Test now. We will send you the test pack with everything you need for the lab to collect and prepare your blood sample and for you to send it for analysis to our specialised laboratory. You will need to go to your regular laboratory for a blood draw. There is an additional charge for this, which varies from lab to lab. Expect it to cost around $35.

How Long does it Take to Get the Results?

Test results typically take about 4 weeks. We suggest you make your appointment booking to coincide with the expected return of your results. Our Registered Naturopath is trained in interpretation and can guide you on the next steps to optimise your thyroid function.