The easiest way to detect hypothyroidism is via a blood test for a pituitary hormone called thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Ordinarily, TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to make triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4) and other thyroid hormones.
If levels of these thyroid hormones fall too low, the pituitary automatically makes more TSH. So, abnormally high levels of TSH are a clear sign of hypothyroidism.
If your thyroid is producing too much hormone (a condition called hyperthyroidism), TSH levels in your blood will be abnormally low. If your TSH levels are abnormal, your doctor may order other tests. The TSH test can be obtained by your primary-care physician during a routine checkup. cost: $40 to $80.
Everyone age 50 or older should have his/her TSH levels checked at least once every five years, start at ace 35 if you have
A parent, sibling or child who has had thyroid trouble.
A visibly swollen thyroid gland (goiter). If you think you have a goiter, see a doctor. The condition can be the first sign of thyroid cancer.
Prematurely gray hair. Even a single gray hair before age 30 is a sign that you may have an overactive or underactive thyroid.
Insulin-dependent (type 1) diabetes.
A tendency toward left-handedness. For unknown reasons, left-handed people seem to be predisposed to thyroid trouble.
Pernicious anemia.
Spots on the skin lacking pigmentation known as vitiligo, a thyroid-related immune disorder.
important: A diagnosis of hypothyroidism should always be confirmed by a TSH test.
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