Hypothyroidism Tsh Levels: Insights & Interpretation

Aakriti has a family history of thyroid abnormality. She has been witnessing some changes in her body weight. She continuously feels dizzy. She wanted to consult a doctor. But her family thought it was unnecessary. After a few months, her condition worsened.

She consulted a doctor and got herself checked. She was diagnosed with hypothyroidism. She started researching the disease. She found ample information about the same, which is as follows;

What Is Thyroid Hormone?

The thyroid hormone is an endocrine gland located in the lower front of the neck. The thyroid gland makes it. This hormone is released into the body, which is then carried to all tissues in the body. Thyroid hormone exists in two primary forms; thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).

The pituitary gland controls the production of thyroid hormone by the thyroid gland. The pituitary gland releases Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) into the blood.

The amount of thyroid hormone in the body decides the amount of TSH be sent into the bloodstream.

What is a TSH test?

The thyroid-stimulating hormone is also known as TSH. This test is done through a blood sample to test the body’s thyroid function. Changes in TSH levels should be treated as an early warning sign. This occurs before the thyroid hormone level in the body gets too high or too low.

Also Read: What is Thyroid Test Home? Know Everything

TSH Level Change

TSH and thyroid hormones are two different things. Thyroid hormones are T3 and T4. When thyroid hormones are low, the pituitary gland makes more TSH. Similarly, when the levels are high, the pituitary releases less TSH. This is how TSH levels in the body change accordingly.

Also Read: Hypothyroidism Treatment Weight Loss

Measurement Levels for TSH Test

TSH is measured in mU/L. It means milliunits per litre, with one milliunit equating to one-thousandth of a unit. The usual range of TSH should be between 0.5 mU/L to 5.0 mU/L. Under certain conditions, normal thyroid hormone levels can be considered abnormal. That is why healthcare providers have varied opinions on what optimal TSH levels should be.

What Is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is said to be the most common thyroid disease. This disease occurs when a body is unable to produce enough thyroid hormones. Hypothyroidism is also known as the underactive thyroid, affecting women more than men. This disease can begin at any age. But it is more common among people having more than 60 years of age.

Top 16 Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

The signs of hypothyroidism can vary for each person. For some, conditions can be severe; they can be mild. Sometimes symptoms can be challenging to recognize.

The most common symptoms which occur are;

•       Weight gain
•       Fatigue
•       Impaired memory
•       Depression
•       Increased cholesterol
•       Thinning of the hair
•       Slowing heart rate
•       Constant cold
•       Constipation
•       Puffy face
•       Weakness in the muscles
•       Sweating
•       Joint stiffness
•       Constant menstrual cycle change
•       Hoarseness
•       Muscle ache

These symptoms increase gradually with age over the years. The symptoms become more easily identifiable as the thyroid slows more. Consulting a doctor can save your condition from getting worse at the right time.

Causes of High TSH

High TSH means different things for different people depending on whether they know they have thyroid or not.

People who don’t know

People who are not undergoing thyroid disease treatment, having high TSH indicate primary hypothyroidism. It usually occurs because the thyroid gland produces inadequate amounts of thyroid hormones. The pituitary gland senses the low level and automatically produces high TSH.

With normal thyroid functions also elevated TSH levels may occur. This can happen because of antibodies made by the immunity system.

People who have thyroid

A high TSH found in people means they are being treated for hyperthyroidism. With hyperthyroidism, a high TSH means the treatment would be surgical or meditative.

Factors That Skew TSH Results

• Antibodies, heterophile antibodies, and thyroid antibodies are the two kinds of antibodies. These can affect the levels of TSH in people’s bodies. Anti-ruthenium and anti-streptavidin are two other antibodies. These can also affect the TSH testing results.
• From any illness to pregnancy to medications to food and other supplements, change in sleeping habits. There can be multiple habits that can affect the TSH levels in your body. These should be kept in mind.

Causes of Hypothyroidism

A human’s immunity system is designed to protect the body. When any virus enters the premises, the immunity system sends fighter cells to destroy the virus. But sometimes, the body can confuse healthy cells with invading cells. This is known as an autoimmune response.

Your immunity system can even attack healthy tissues if not treated. It can be the cause of serious medical issues. This creates conditions like hypothyroidism.

Hashimoto thyroiditis is an autoimmune condition. It is said to be the most common cause of an underactive thyroid. It attacks the thyroid gland in humans while causing inflammation.

Hypothyroidism can also be caused by partial or complete removal of the thyroid.

How to Identify Hypothyroidism?

The diagnosis is based on accurate family history. Various hormonal, medical, and radiological examinations are to be conducted. In radiological diagnosis, an ultrasound of the thyroid is done. It can help incorrect diagnosis and appropriate medication.

How to Cure Hypothyroidism?

It was brought under control with the help of various drugs. The drugs include levothyroxine as well as triiodothyronine. Due to the disease being chronic, the medication will be taken throughout the patient’s life.

Conclusion

A TSH cannot be said to be the same for everyone. Different people have different TSH levels depending on various factors. Keeping a vigil check on the symptoms and the family history can help with the diagnosis.

As it gets old, your body goes through natural changes. If you notice some out-of-the-blue changes, you should consult your doctor. You should also maintain a healthy lifestyle so that your body can fight hypothyroidism.