Thyroid stimulating hormone, often abbreviated as TSH (from the English Thyroid Stimulating Hormone), is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. This hormone stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones regulate important processes in the body, such as metabolism, energy levels, growth and body temperature. A properly functioning thyroid gland is therefore important for overall health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A high TSH value usually means that the thyroid gland is underactive (hypothyroidism). The pituitary gland then produces extra TSH to stimulate the thyroid to work harder. A low TSH value often indicates an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism). In this case, the pituitary gland reduces TSH production because there is already enough (or too much) thyroid hormone in the blood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With a high TSH value (underactive thyroid), symptoms may include fatigue, feeling cold, weight gain, dry skin, hair loss and sluggishness. With a low TSH value (overactive thyroid), symptoms may include palpitations, sweating, weight loss, nervousness, sleep problems and feeling restless or agitated. Not everyone experiences all symptoms, but these signs may indicate a thyroid problem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
An abnormal TSH value can affect the menstrual cycle and fertility. A high or low TSH value can cause irregular periods or periods to stop completely. It may also make it more difficult to become pregnant. Therefore, TSH levels are often checked in women who are trying to conceive or who have menstrual problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Elevated TSH levels are usually caused by an underactive thyroid, often due to an autoimmune condition (such as Hashimoto\u2019s disease), an iodine deficiency or after thyroid surgery. Reduced TSH levels are usually caused by an overactive thyroid, for example due to Graves\u2019 disease, a thyroid nodule or taking too much thyroid hormone medication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It is advisable to measure TSH if you have symptoms that may indicate a thyroid problem, such as unexplained fatigue, weight changes, palpitations, hair loss or menstrual problems. It can also be useful to check TSH levels when trying to conceive, during pregnancy or if thyroid problems run in the family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
TSH is measured using a blood test, often performed with a finger prick. The result is compared with a reference range, which is usually between 0.4 and 4.0 mU\/l (this range may vary slightly between laboratories). A value above the upper limit may indicate an underactive thyroid, while a value below the lower limit may indicate an overactive thyroid. Your doctor will assess the result together with you and determine whether further testing is needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If your TSH value is too high due to an underactive thyroid, treatment usually involves thyroid hormone tablets. If your TSH value is too low due to an overactive thyroid, treatment may include medication to reduce thyroid activity, radioactive iodine therapy or sometimes surgery. In some cases, adjustments to diet or medication may also help. Treatment always depends on the underlying cause and should be determined together with your doctor. Regular TSH monitoring is important during treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace advice from a doctor. If your symptoms persist or you are concerned, always contact your doctor.<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"biomarker_category":[595],"biomarker_material":[],"class_list":["post-11018226","biomarker","type-biomarker","status-publish","hentry","biomarker_category-female-hormones"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n