Thyroid screening tests that provide health insights

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.