Healthy Thyroid

WHAT?

At-home sample collection device for monitoring thyroid function. Laboratory results are provided within 5 days.

WHY?

The thyroid is a gland that produces hormones that regulate many of your body’s essential functions. Its most important function is to control the speed of your metabolism (the process by which the body transforms the food you eat into energy).

WHO & WHEN?

Thyroid disorders can have a noticeable impact on your energy levels and mood. Hypothyroidism tends to make people feel tired, sluggish and depressed. Hyperthyroidism can cause anxiety, sleep disturbances, restlessness and irritability.

Doctors may suggest a thyroid function test for people experiencing the following unexplained symptoms:

• Weight loss
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Menstrual irregularities
• Heat sensitivity
• Vision problems
• Trouble sleeping
• Enlarged thyroid gland or goitre

Thyroid disorders most commonly occur in women, but men can also be affected. Regular thyroid function testing is recommended for those who have:

• A family history of thyroid disease
• An autoimmune disease, such as type 1 diabetes or celiac disease
• Received treatment for hyperthyroidism
• Received radiation to the neck or upper chest
• Had thyroid surgery

If you have previously been diagnosed with a thyroid disorder, it is recommended you test your thyroid function once a year if you have hypothyroidism and monthly if you have hyperthyroidism.

HOW?

This sample kit contains a finger-prick blood collection device, along with clear instructions. Samples collected at home are couriered to and tested at the BioSmart accredited pathology laboratory.

Blood is tested for:

• Thyroid-stimulating Hormone (TSH)
• Free Thyroxine (FT4)
• Free Triiodothyronine (FT3)
• Thyroglobulin Antibodies (TGA)
• Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (Anti-TPO)

Your thyroid function health report will come in an easy-to-understand format with a detailed breakdown of results, what they mean and your next steps.