Thyroid diseases are common conditions that can affect many areas of your life. Thyroid hormone testing is often used to diagnose and manage thyroid issues, but did you know you can also test your thyroid at home?
What is thyroid disease? The thyroid is a small gland located at the base of your neck. Despite its size, it plays a major role in producing hormones that affect almost every function in your body. These hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), help regulate your metabolism and energy use. Your thyroid works constantly to maintain the proper levels of these hormones.
When the thyroid becomes either overactive or underactive, it can cause various symptoms, which depend on the type of thyroid disorder.
What is hypothyroidism? Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones, causing many of your body’s processes to slow down. It’s more common in women and people over 60. Some common causes of hypothyroidism include:
- Hashimoto’s disease
- Congenital hypothyroidism
- Thyroiditis
- Radiation therapy
- Surgical removal of the thyroid
- Certain medications
- Disorders affecting the pituitary gland or hypothalamus
- Low iodine intake (rare in developed countries)
Symptoms of hypothyroidism may include:
- Weight gain
- Sensitivity to cold
- Fatigue
- Muscle and joint pain
- Dry skin or hair
- Heavy or irregular periods
- Slow heart rate
- Depression
What is hyperthyroidism? Hyperthyroidism happens when the thyroid is overactive and produces too many hormones, speeding up many of your body’s functions. Like hypothyroidism, it’s more common in women and older adults. Possible causes of hyperthyroidism include:
- Graves’ disease
- Thyroiditis
- Excessive iodine intake
- Overactive thyroid nodules
- Pituitary tumors
- Excessive thyroid medication
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism typically include:
- Weight loss
- Sleep issues
- Irritability
- Nervousness
- Heat intolerance
- Rapid heart rate and/or breathing
- Mood swings
- Heart palpitations
- Weakness
- Fatigue
How to test thyroid health at home If you suspect thyroid issues, it’s important to see a doctor. While home thyroid tests can help monitor your condition, they aren’t meant for self-diagnosis. Self-testing works in different ways, but most kits require a fingerprick blood sample that you send back for lab analysis. Results typically come within a few days.
You can also use direct-to-consumer home testing services to request a lab test without a doctor’s referral. However, you’ll still need to discuss the results with a healthcare provider.
Best at-home thyroid tests HealthLabs offers a wide range of thyroid tests, including options for both overactive and underactive thyroids. You can get tested at one of over 4,500 affiliated labs without needing a doctor’s referral. Their popular thyroid test kit, the Thyroid Panel, includes T3, T4, and free thyroxine testing. Other options include the Thyroid Panel with TSH, Free T3, Free T4, and TSH tests.
LetsGetChecked provides test kits for at-home thyroid testing, with results available in 2-5 days. Their options include the Thyroid Test, which checks TSH, free T3, and T4 levels, and the Thyroid Antibody Test, which also checks for thyroid antibodies. If your results are abnormal, you’ll receive a detailed report and can consult with a healthcare professional.
myLAB Box offers a variety of thyroid hormone testing panels, including the At Home Thyroid Health Screening Test, which includes tests for T3, T4, TSH, and TPO. Other panels include thyroid hormone tests as part of broader tests, like those for metabolism or anti-aging. Results are typically available within 2-5 days, and the company offers free medical consultations.
These at-home tests can be an excellent way to monitor your thyroid health and stay on top of any changes, but it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for a full evaluation.
