THYROID GLAND PACKAGE – ENLARGED

The thyroid gland plays a major role in the production in the human body of 2 important hormones responsible for regulating the metabolic rate, proper growth and development of the body. These are the hormones thyroxine and triiodothyronine (T4 and T3, respectively) of the thyroid hormone group.

The thyroid gland is located in the larynx, in the anterior region of the neck. It also produces other hormones that are important for the proper performance of basic vital functions in the human body, including those responsible for the functioning of the heart and the work of the digestive tract.

Problems with this so important endocrine gland occur when there is excessive or too little production of any of the key thyroid hormones.

Who needs to undergo thyroid tests

Statistics show that women are much more likely to suffer from thyroid problems, which is why the female half of the population is thought to be at greater risk of diseases associated with abnormal thyroid hormone values. It is estimated that after the age of 35, the risk of thyroid problem in women increases by about 30 percent.

Unfortunately, very often thyroid problems represent serious conditions requiring increased attention and care. It is therefore advisable at the first suspicion of the presence of symptoms associated with such diseases to consult a doctor who will, if necessary, appoint the appropriate laboratory tests of the thyroid gland.

Some of the most common causes of disease in this context are genetic predisposition, autoimmune problems, living with elevated stress levels, improper nutrition and implementation of diets deficient in essential nutrients, increase of toxins in the body due to harmful environmental influences, etc.

When it is necessary to undergo tests for thyroid problems

Experts recommend the preventive conduct of thyroid examinations in the above risk groups. The other cases in which it is necessary to conduct such examinations are in the presence of symptomatology associated with thyroid problems.

Possible symptoms that may arise are prolonged insomnia, nervous episodicity and restlessness, sudden weight loss or gain not due to other factors, increased sweat cumulations and hot flashes.

With hyperthyroidism (increased thyroid function), there is also a characteristic protrusion of the eyeballs, an unpleasantly rapid heartbeat, an increase in blood pressure, trembling, irritability, stomach problems such as upset stomach and frequent trips to the toilet.

In hypothyroidism (decreased thyroid function), symptoms such as slowing of the pulse and lowering of blood pressure, a feeling of bloating, apathy and drowsiness, constipation, and a constant feeling of cold are noted.

Which are the most commonly appointed thyroid tests

The tests are usually blood tests and are carried out in a professional clinical laboratory. They are mainly aimed at studying the amount of hormones produced by the thyroid gland.

The most commonly used test to detect the presence of a thyroid problem is the TSH/TSH test. It tests for deviations from reference values of the so-called thyroid stimulating hormone (thyrotropin).

When thyroid function is decreased, total thyroxine (T4) and free thyroxine (FT4) are also tested.

For the detection of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, microsomal antibody tests (MAT) are used, which act against a specific enzyme that promotes thyroid hormone synthesis. When hormone synthesis decreases this resonates in the onset of hypothyroidism. Another useful test in this context is the TAT test for thyroglobulin antibodies.

Free triiodothyronine (FT3), anti-TSH receptor antibodies (TRAb), thyroglobulin, calcitonin, etc. are also studied in the field.

Never ignore your doctor’s recommendations to have such tests, as they are an important part of preventing, monitoring and managing thyroid problems. Keep in mind that lab tests are not a diagnosis, but are used to make one, so you should trust the judgment of your treating specialist.

PACKAGE “THYROID” – EXTENDED

• TSH
• TAT
• MAT
• fT4
• Anti-TSH receptor antibodies/ TRAb

An additional sampling fee is payable.

Result for Anti-TSH receptor antibodies/ TRAb every TUESDAY AND THURSDAY.