Thyroid screening tests that provide health insights

Thyroid screening test options


Your thyroid is a small but mighty gland that plays a big role in your overall health. It affects your weight, influences your mood and helps control how your body uses energy. That's why it's important to keep an eye on your thyroid health. Labcorp OnDemand makes it easy to check on your thyroid with our range of tests. Here's what we offer:

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Standard Thyroid Test: This test measures both thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and Free T4 (thyroxine) in your blood to assess thyroid function. It screens for specific thyroid health conditions such as underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) and overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).

Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Test: This test measures thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), which stimulates the thyroid to produce two additional hormones, T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine), both of which play a critical role in controlling the body’s metabolism.
 

Thyroid Peroxidase (TPO) Antibody Test: This test checks for thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPO) in your blood. High levels can indicate an autoimmune thyroid condition.

 

Free T3 Test: This test measures the level of free triiodothyronine (T3) in your blood. It helps evaluate whether the thyroid is producing the right amount of T3, which is essential for regulating metabolism and energy levels.

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FAQ

  • You can test for thyroid problems by purchasing thyroid tests through services like Labcorp OnDemand. These typically include a thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) blood test, which is often the first test used to check thyroid function. Labcorp OnDemand also offers additional thyroid testing options like the TPO Test, Standard Thyroid Test (which includes TSH and free T4) and Free T3 Test for a more comprehensive look at your thyroid health.
     

    While these testing options are convenient, it's important to remember that they don't replace professional medical advice. Your healthcare provider is still a great resource for learning more about thyroid health and which tests might be most appropriate for you. They can help interpret your test results, discuss any symptoms you may be experiencing, and recommend follow-up care if needed. If you have concerns about your thyroid health, consider using an at-home test as a starting point, but don't hesitate to consult with your healthcare provider for a more thorough evaluation and personalized advice. 

  • A thyroid screening typically includes several important tests to assess thyroid health. The most common test is the TSH blood test, which measures thyroid-stimulating hormone levels.
     

    Labcorp OnDemand offers a range of thyroid tests for comprehensive thyroid screening, including the Standard Thyroid Test, TSH Test, TPO Test and Free T3 Test. These tests for thyroid health can be purchased individually or as part of a more comprehensive thyroid screening panel. By offering these various thyroid tests, Labcorp OnDemand provides options for different levels of thyroid health assessment, from basic screening to more in-depth analysis. This allows you to choose the most appropriate tests for your specific health concerns or as recommended by your healthcare provider.

  • The American Thyroid Association recommends starting thyroid screenings at age 35, with follow-up tests every five years.1 Labcorp OnDemand’s Standard Thyroid Test allows you to conveniently check your thyroid, helping you stay proactive about your health.
     

    Those with thyroid conditions may need more frequent tests for thyroid health monitoring. Consult with your healthcare provider for recommendations specific to you.
     

    Reference:

    1. Ladenson PW, Singer PA, Ain KB, et al. American Thyroid Association guidelines for detection of thyroid dysfunction [published correction appears in Arch Intern Med 2001 Jan 22;161(2):284]. Arch Intern Med. 2000;160(11):1573-1575.

  • Early signs of thyroid issues can include fatigue, weight changes, changes in heart rate and sensitivity to temperature. If you notice these symptoms, consider getting thyroid tests to check your thyroid health. Read our blog for four early warning signs of thyroid problems.

  • Autoimmune disorders are a common cause of thyroid problems. In these cases, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland. This can lead to conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis or Graves' disease. Iodine deficiency is another potential cause, though it's less common in countries where iodized salt is widely used.

     

    There are other factors that can impact the thyroid, including certain medications, radiation exposure, and sometimes pregnancy. Stress and poor nutrition may also play a role in thyroid health, though the exact relationship isn't always clear.

  • While certain habits aren't direct causes of thyroid problems, they can potentially impact thyroid health. It's important to understand these factors and how regular thyroid screening can help monitor any changes.

     

    Stress is a significant factor that can affect thyroid function. Chronic stress may lead to hormonal imbalances, potentially impacting thyroid health. Diet also plays a role. Iodine deficiency or excess can affect thyroid function, as can certain foods that interfere with iodine absorption. The TSH Test, which measures thyroid-stimulating hormone levels, can help detect thyroid issues.

     

    Environmental factors, such as exposure to certain chemicals or radiation, may also impact thyroid health. The TPO Test, which checks for thyroid peroxidase antibodies, can help detect autoimmune thyroid conditions. 

     

    While these factors can influence thyroid health, it's important to note that having these habits doesn't necessarily mean you'll develop thyroid problems. However, they underscore the importance of regular thyroid screening. Labcorp OnDemand offers a range of tests for thyroid health, including the Standard Thyroid Test, TSH Test, TPO Test, and Free T3 Test. These thyroid tests can help you stay informed about your thyroid health and detect any potential issues early.

     

    Remember, if you have concerns about your thyroid health or how your habits might be affecting it, it's always best to consult with a healthcare provider. They can help interpret your test results and provide personalized advice based on your individual health situation.