Lab test
TSH Blood Test - Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone Test
This blood test measures thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), a hormone made by the pituitary gland that tells the thyroid how much hormone to produce.
- Typical price
- From $39
- Results
- 1-3 business days
- Preparation
- See preparation notes below
- Sample
- Blood draw or sample collection at a local center
About this test
This blood test measures thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), a hormone made by the pituitary gland that tells the thyroid how much hormone to produce. Because TSH rises when thyroid hormone is low and falls when it is high, it is a sensitive first indicator of thyroid function. The test is ordered to screen for an underactive or overactive thyroid, to investigate symptoms such as fatigue, weight change, palpitations, or temperature intolerance, and to monitor thyroid treatment. TSH is usually interpreted alongside Free T4 and, at times, Free T3, since the relationship between them clarifies the underlying pattern.
What this test measures
- TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone) The pituitary hormone that regulates thyroid hormone production.
Who this test may be right for
- Adults with fatigue, weight change, or temperature intolerance
- People with palpitations, tremor, or unexplained anxiety
- Individuals with a family history of thyroid disease
- Those being monitored during thyroid treatment
Before your visit
- Report thyroid medications and biotin-containing supplements to the laboratory
- Collection timing can matter if you take thyroid medication; follow your provider's instructions
- Tell your provider if you are pregnant, as reference ranges differ
Understanding your results
TSH is compared against a reference range that may vary with age and pregnancy. A high TSH usually suggests an underactive thyroid, while a low TSH suggests an overactive thyroid or, in some cases, pituitary issues. Occasionally the pattern is more complex, so TSH is interpreted with Free T4 and Free T3. A healthcare provider should assess the result with your symptoms and any further testing.
Order this test online
- Buy online in a few minutes - no doctor's visit needed for most tests.
- Sample collection at a patient service center near you.
- Results are typically ready within 1-3 business days.
- Secure, lab-reviewed results delivered to your account.
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Questions people ask
Why is TSH considered a first-line thyroid test?
TSH is sensitive to changes in thyroid hormone, so it often becomes abnormal before T4 does and is useful as an initial screen.
What does a high TSH level mean?
A high TSH usually indicates the pituitary is signaling for more thyroid hormone, which is consistent with an underactive thyroid, but it is interpreted with T4.
Can TSH be abnormal if I feel fine?
Yes. Mildly abnormal TSH can occur without obvious symptoms, and a healthcare provider decides whether monitoring or further testing is appropriate.
Should I take my thyroid medication before the test?
Ask your prescribing healthcare provider how to time your medication relative to the blood draw, since this can affect results.
What does the TSH Blood Test - Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone Test measure?
The thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) blood test is used to determine TSH levels, & evaluating thyroid function and hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism symptoms.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Follow the lab's instructions.
How long do results take?
Most TSH Blood Test - Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone Test results are released in 1-3 business days. Specialty testing can take longer.
Is this test right for me?
This page is educational and not medical advice. Talk to a licensed healthcare provider about which tests fit your situation.
LabBookings is an independent directory. We compare test details and pricing information, but we are not a laboratory and we do not perform testing or provide medical advice. Always talk to a licensed healthcare provider about your results and treatment.
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