The Thyroid Function Test or Thyroid Profile is a blood test used to measure how good our thyroid glands are. Also, find the cause of problems such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. Thyroid Profile tests include triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4), and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH).
The thyroid is a small gland in the lower-front part of your neck. It’s responsible for helping regulate many bodily processes, such as metabolism, energy generation, and mood.
The thyroid produces two major hormones: triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). If the thyroid gland can not produce enough hormones, you may have symptoms like weight gain, lack of energy, and depression. This condition is called hypothyroidism.
If your thyroid gland produces too many hormones, you may experience weight loss, high levels of anxiety, tremors, and a sense of being on a “high.” It is called hyperthyroidism.
What happens during a Thyroid Profile Test?
During a Thyroid Profile Test, a lab technician will collect blood from a vein, typically from the inside of your elbow or from the back of your hand. The test will take only a few minutes. The technician:
- Cleans your skin with an antiseptic wipe
- Places an elastic band, or tourniquet, around your upper arm to help the vein swell with blood
- Inserts a needle in your vein and collect a blood sample in one or more vials
- Removes the elastic band
- Covers the area with a bandage to stop any bleeding
- Place a barcode on your blood sample vial and send them to a lab for analysis
A blood test can be slightly uncomfortable. When the needle punctures your skin, you might feel a prick or pinching sensation. Some people also feel faint or light-headed when they see blood. Afterward, you may have minor bruising, but it will clear up within a few days.
24 Hours
Not required
Male, Female
5-99 Years
Thyroid Profile Parameters Included : 3
- TSH (Thyroid-stimulating hormone)
- T4 (Total Thyroxine)
- T3 (Total Triiodothyronine)