TSH
TSH stands for Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone, which is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. TSH plays an important role in regulating the thyroid gland's production of the hormones T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine), which are important for metabolism, growth and development.
A TSH blood test is used to measure the amount of TSH in the blood and is often used as a screening test for thyroid disorders. Increased levels of TSH can be related to primary hypothyroidism (thyroid dysfunction). Decreased levels of TSH can be related to secondary hypothyroidism (pituitary or hypothalamus dysfunction).
Symptoms of hypothyroidism may include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance and depression, while symptoms of hyperthyroidism may include weight loss, rapid heart rate, sweating and anxiety. Treatment for thyroid disorders may involve medication, dietary changes, or, in some cases, surgery.
A TSH blood test is used to measure the amount of TSH in the blood and is often used as a screening test for thyroid disorders. Increased levels of TSH can be related to primary hypothyroidism (thyroid dysfunction). Decreased levels of TSH can be related to secondary hypothyroidism (pituitary or hypothalamus dysfunction).
Symptoms of hypothyroidism may include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance and depression, while symptoms of hyperthyroidism may include weight loss, rapid heart rate, sweating and anxiety. Treatment for thyroid disorders may involve medication, dietary changes, or, in some cases, surgery.