A test for thyroid-stimulating hormone is done to:

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• Find out whether the thyroid gland is working properly.

• Find the cause of an under-active thyroid gland.

• Keep track of treatment results for people with hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism

 

Hypothyroidism:  An under-active thyroid gland.  Symptoms include weight gain, tiredness, constipation,  and a feeling of being too cold.

 

Hyperthyroidism:  An overactive thyroid gland.  Symptoms include weight loss, rapid heart rate, nervousness, diarrhea, a feeling of being too hot, and irregular menstrual periods.

 

A normal thyroid range is 0.350  - 5.500 uIU/mL.