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Thyroid function test
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Thyroid function test

The thyroid is an endocrine gland in the neck beneath the 'Adam's apple.' It produces hormones essential in regulating metabolism and overall energy levels. A wide range of destabilising symptoms can occur when your thyroid hormone levels are off-balance.

Our thyroid function test at Medical Express Clinic checks your thyroid levels (triiodothyronine and thyroxine) and thyroid-stimulating hormones (TSH). Disorders in the thyroid are more common in women than men, with the most common conditions being hyperthyroid or hypothyroid (overactive or underactive thyroid).

Other thyroid dysfunctions are:

  • Goitre
  • Graves' disease
  • Hashimoto's disease (an autoimmune thyroid disease that usually leads to hypothyroidism).
  • Thyroid cancer
  • Nodules

Our clinic offers thyroid function tests with same-day results for a thyroid main profile and a 3-day turnaround for thyroid antibodies screening.

How does the thyroid work?

The thyroid is an endocrine system gland that produces and secretes hormones into the blood, which are transported to the cells. It produces the T3 and T4 hormones, which regulate the rate at which cells in the body function. These hormones are produced from iodine in salt, seafood, and dairy products.

The release of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) from the brain's pituitary gland triggers the production of the T3 and T4 hormones. The thyroid can be under or overactive, resulting in an overactive or underactive thyroid. These conditions can result in different physical symptoms.

Abnormal thyroid hormone levels in the blood may require specific medications to treat the imbalance. Treatment is usually effective for balancing thyroid hormones, resulting in significant improvement in many individuals.

Symptoms of thyroid disease

Thyroid disease may cause subtle symptoms which develop gradually and are often missed.

  • Hypothyroidism

    An underactive thyroid is medically known as hypothyroidism. In this condition, the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones (triiodothyronine, T3, and thyroxine, T4). Thyroid hormones are important in the body's metabolism. Low levels of the hormones can slow down body processes, causing weight gain, sluggish feeling, exhaustion, and cold. Common hypothyroidism symptoms include:

    • Weight gain
    • Loss of energy and tiredness
    • Depression and low mood
    • Hair loss and dry skin
    • Increased sensitivity to cold
    • Muscular aches
    • Thinning of the eyebrows
  • Hyperthyroidism

    An overactive thyroid is medically known as hyperthyroidism. In this condition, the thyroid gland produces an excess of thyroid hormones. These hormones drive the body's metabolism, so when the thyroid gland is overactive, you may feel hot and hyperactive and lose weight.

    Common hyperthyroidism symptoms are:

    • Low libido
    • Infertility
    • Unexplained weight loss
    • Irritability and palpitations
    • Hyperactivity and high energy, but some people also feel fatigued
    • Irregular menstruation – infrequent or no periods
    • Sleeping problems

    You can undergo a thyroid screening test if you are worried about your health and experience these symptoms. We also offer expert, supportive care by endocrinology consultants.

Thyroid testing at Medical Express Clinic

Our endocrinology consultant will listen to your concerns, perform a detailed examination, and arrange the necessary investigations in our state-of-the-art outpatient clinic.

Our definitive testing for thyroid problems involves a quick, simple blood test to check your thyroid hormone levels. We offer several hormone tests to give a detailed analysis of your thyroid function. These include:

  • Triiodothyronine (T3)
  • Thyroxine (T4)
  • Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) – TSH is usually elevated when the thyroid is underactive
  • Antithyroid antibodies – produced in people with autoimmune thyroid disease
  • Thyroid ultrasound – if your thyroid gland is abnormal or large on examination
  • Thyroid technetium scan

Undergoing any tests can be worrying, but our fully-trained and experienced team will be available to support and guide you throughout the process. We can also arrange a follow-up appointment to discuss your result and offer a personalised treatment plan.

You can locate Medical Express Clinic in the Harley Street medical area or call us at 0207 499 1991 to book an appointment for your thyroid function test.
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Frequently asked questions

The thyroid, also called the thyroid gland, is found in the neck, behind the cartilage called 'Adam's apple.' It produces the hormones that control the body's metabolism and growth rate, including other functions. This makes the thyroid important in your body's function and health. An imbalance in thyroid hormones can significantly affect your well-being.

The thyroid nodules are small lumps or an enlargement of the thyroid gland. This may indicate oestrogen dominance, where your natural hormone levels are off-balance or toxicity, either through chemicals in skincare products, diet, or environmental factors. If you think you have thyroid nodules, ensure you visit your doctor to check it.

Thyroid checks are a good option if you have a family history of thyroid disorder. Women may start experiencing thyroid-related symptoms as early as the late teens to 20s, especially if a family member has a thyroid condition. Generally, the recommendation is to get regular check-ups around age 30 or whenever you have any concerns.