The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the throat near the trachea. The purpose to the thyroid gland is to produce and release hormones. The thyroid gland also helps regulate body temperature, the absorbing iron and production of energy. When the thyroid isn't working properly, a person will often struggle with weight, fatigue, hair loss, depression, swollen hands and feet, and memory problems.
Instructions
1. Ask that your physician perform a standard TSH tes. Many experts also recommend that you request an antibodies test, as well as a T3 and T4 test, which will confirm the results of the TSH test. Most medical professionals also recommend that you have the tests run several different times and compare all of the readings. The more tests are run, the more accurately your physician will be able to diagnose your thyroid condition.
2. Understand TSH test results. In 2003, the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists lowered the normal value range of the thyroid from 0.5 mIU/L to 5.0 mIU/L, to 0.3 mIU/L to 3.0 mIU/L. Anything higher is considered to be a hypothyroid condition. Patients with a reading under 3.0 are often diagnosed with a hyperthyroid condition, although many patients feel best when they have a thyroid value of 2.0 mIU/L.
3. Make lifestyle changes if your test results indicate a thyroid condition. Processed foods, trans-fats, raw cruciferous vegetables and iodine supplements should be avoided if you are diagnosed with a thyroid condition.
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