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The 8 Markers We Check to Determine Thyroid Health

thyroid issues

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck. Though it may be small, this endocrine gland plays a big role in keeping the body healthy. The gland produces hormones that regulate many important functions in the body, including heart rate, metabolism, and body temperature.

Health Problems Linked to Thyroid Dysfunction

When this endocrine gland is not functioning properly, it can lead to a variety of health problems. For example, an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can cause anxiety, weight loss, and rapid heartbeat, while an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can cause fatigue, depression, and weight gain.

Problems with this vital hormone gland can also contribute to fertility issues, bone loss, and an increased risk for heart disease. Therefore, it is essential to keep the thyroid healthy to avoid these potential health problems.

At The Wellness Connection we can help you keep your thyroid healthy by checking all 8 of the following markers (includes functional ranges) Traditionally, your primary care doctor may not be checking all of the following markers and could be missing something vital:

TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone):

If high, hypo, if low, hyper (to diagnose hypo or hyper thyroid).

Range: 1.8-3.0

Total T4: Measures both bound and unbound thyroxine, best done with a T3 Uptake.

Range: 6-12

Total T3 (Triiodothyronine): May be high in thyroiditis and may be low with elevated cortisol.

Range: 100-180

Reverse T3: Measures the amount of reverse T3 that is produced. Extreme stress, trauma, or surgery can increase production. It is due to an inability to clear reverse T3, as well as from elevated cortisol.

Range: 9.2-24.1

Free T3: The free T3 test is the best marker to see what amount of active thyroid hormones are available for the thyroid receptor sites.

Range: 3.0-4.0

Free T4 (Free Thyroxine): The amounts of free or active T4 in the blood. High with overdose of thyroid hormones and may be low in people treated with T3 replacement.

Range: 1.0-1.5

T3 Uptake: May be low in a normal pregnancy or with any anti-ovulatory drugs, and estrogens. T3 uptake is increased with testosterone elevation and decreased with estrogen elevation.

Range: 28-38%

TPO (Thyroid Peroxidase): This is the most commonly elevated marker.

Range: 0-9

Book an Appointment

Keeping your thyroid healthy can mean better overall health for you. Contact The Wellness Connection today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Olivia or Dr. Anthony. In addition to in-office visits, we also offer them virtually.

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