The thyroid is one of the most important glands in your body. It produces thyroid hormone and helps manage your body's temperature, strength, weight & moods. In turn, this thyroid hormone is controlled by the Pituitary gland or Master gland.
The pituitary gland produces Thyroid Stimulating Hormone that "tells" the Thyroid gland how much thyroid it should produce. Sometimes, some thyroid hormone production issues result in multiple thyroid disorders. Either the production of Thyroid hormones to too high (Hyperthyroidism) or too low (Hypothyroidism).
In such cases, a doctor may suggest LSH or TSH test to determine whether the pituitary gland produces the TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone). And if it is being produced, is it in sufficient quantity?
Sometimes, doctors suggest an LSH test if a patient is experiencing symptoms of certain thyroid disorders.
Risk factors associated with a test
LSH test is entirely safe, and there are no risk factors associated. The test involves only collecting a syringe of blood via injection from your body. So the issue you might face after the LSH test is some itching where the needle was inserted.
Preparing for the test
Like diabetes testing, there is no need for advanced preparation like overnight fasting for the LSH test. But if you are taking some medications, like aspirin or lithium, it's important to let your doctor know.
The reason is this medication generally impacts TSH levels in the body. So if you are consuming them during the test, you might not get precise results after the test. Also, if you are dealing with a lot of stress, it can impact your hormones in the body.
So before undergoing the test, discuss all the points with your doctor mentioned above to ensure your test results are precise.
What to expect from the test
LSH test is painless & quick. The doctor will collect some blood via a small syringe for the test. You won't feel discomfort or pain except for a slight prick when the needle is inserted into the skin.
Once the needle is removed, small drops of blood may appear on the spot, which is common.
It's important to note that some individuals feel nauseated or dizzy at the sight of blood. If you are one of them, inform the doctor about this in advance so they can take the necessary steps.
Possible results of the test
Normal TSH levels
There is no fixed range of normal TSH levels, as it is still a constant research topic. But most doctors & researchers believe TSH levels between 0.4 to 4 mU/L are normal. This range varies, too, depending on the testing lab & your age factor.
If your level is between this range or very close to this range, TSH levels are considered normal. If you are still confused about the result, it's better to talk to a doctor.
High TSH Levels
If your TSH levels are way beyond 4.0mU/L, it's considered a High TSH level. The Hig TSH level indicates you might be dealing with Hypothyroidism.
In such cases, it’s vital to connect with your doctor & plan the further course of action. Doctors might suggest you some medication that can help manage the TSH levels.
Low TSH Levels
If your TSH levels are low, there can be multiple possibilities. You might have hyperthyroidism, Grave's disease, or you are taking too much iodine in your diet.
In such cases, it’s important o consult your doctor for the right guidance & proper treatment. DO NOT TAKE ANY MEDICATION WITHOUT CONSULTING A DOCTOR.
Getting the test results right is the first step towards tackling any health condition. At Apollo Fertility, Guwahati, we provide precise LSH testing & Thyroid Disorder diagnosis to our patients. Schedule your appointment today.
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It's a test performed by doctors to determine the levels of thyroid-stimulating hormones in your body.
It depends on what medication you are taking. So before the test, let your doctors know about the medication so they can guide you better.
Generally, there are no side effects of the test. But if the place where the needle was inserted swells & causes extreme pain, you might want to get in touch with your doctor immediately.
No, there is no need for an overnight fast before the LSH test, as eating food does not impact the level of LSH in the body.
If your test results are not within the normal range, doctors might recommend tests like the T4 or T3 thyroid hormone or thyroid anti-body test to determine other autoimmune diseases.
