2 Reasons Your Thyroid Tests Are Not Normal

January is Thyroid Awareness Month. Today we're covering thyroid labs: two reasons why the current standard for testing is not optimal.
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Conventionally, the testing standard for thyroid includes two markers: TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) and T4 (thyroxine). There are two important reasons why this approach is not optimal:

1. It is not a complete picture.

   Testing only TSH and T4 excludes 4 other essential markers. Looking at these markers only is like looking at the top of the iceberg without realizing most of the iceberg is below water. ⠀⠀

   At CIH, we test a full thyroid panel as a standard for our patients. This includes TSH and T4 as well as Free T3 (triiodothyronine), Reverse T3, TPOab (thyroperoxidase antibody), and TGab (thyroglobulin antibody). We also test important micronutrients for the thyroid such as vitamin D, iodine, B vitamins, and zinc.

   This gives us a complete understanding of the function of the thyroid as a whole. It allows us to identify if the conversion of active to inactive thyroid hormone is optimal, if the thyroid is under or over-functioning, and if autoimmune thyroiditis is present. ⠀⠀

2. What is considered "normal" is not necessarily normal, let alone optimal.

   The current ranges for a "normal" TSH is between 0.5-4.5 uIU/mL. This range is based on a bell curve of people who have their thyroid tested rather than what is optimal for health.

   This is why many patients who report classic hypothyroid symptoms (fatigue, intolerance to cold, hair loss, stubborn weight, etc.) are told that their thyroid is "normal".

Working with a practitioner who understands functionally optimal ranges for all 6 thyroid markers is essential for assessing your thyroid function and overall health. Click here to become a patient at CIH.