Core messages
💡 The thyroid controls metabolism, energy, and hormones.
💡 Malfunctions can cause fatigue, weight fluctuations, and more.
💡 Blood tests provide information about hormone levels and function.
Understanding of thyroid function
The thyroid, a small, butterfly-shaped organ at the front of the neck, plays a central role in metabolism. It produces the hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which regulate important body functions such as heart rate and calorie consumption.
Three key values monitor thyroid function: TSH, free thyroxine (fT4), and free triiodothyronine (fT3). TSH is secreted by the pituitary gland to regulate the production of T4 and T3. High TSH levels indicate an underactive thyroid, while low levels indicate an overactive thyroid. fT4 and fT3 show the amount of active hormones in the blood available to the body.
If you are looking for more in-depth information, we recommend the article from gesundheitsinformation.de and a visit to the website of the German Thyroid Center.
Normal TSH values by gender and age
The TSH basal value
The TSH basal value refers to the concentration of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in the blood under basal or resting conditions, typically after an overnight fasting period. The measurement of this value is often conducted as part of a routine examination or when a thyroid disorder is suspected.
The normal TSH values can vary slightly depending on the laboratory, but generally, the values in the table are considered normal.
Reference ranges
Below you will find an overview of the reference ranges for different age groups:
- Newborns: 0.3–10 µIU/L
- Children and Adolescents: 0.3–5.5 µIU/L
- Adults: 0.4–4.2 µIU/L
- Older Adults: 0.5–4.5 µIU/L
Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces too few hormones, leading to a slowing down of metabolism. The symptoms often develop gradually and can be varied:
- Fatigue and Weakness: Constant exhaustion despite adequate sleep.
- Weight Gain: Unexplained increase despite consistent diet.
- Cold Intolerance: Hypersensitivity to cold.
- Skin and Hair Changes: Dry, pale skin and hair loss.
- Cognitive Problems: Difficulty concentrating and memory issues.
- Digestive Disorders: Frequent constipation.
- Mood Changes: Depression or apathy.
- Menstrual Disorders: Irregular or heavier bleeding in women.
Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
In contrast to underactivity, the thyroid gland produces too many hormones in hyperthyroidism, which accelerates metabolism. Typical symptoms include:
- Weight loss: Despite increased appetite.
- Palpitations: Irregular heartbeat or rapid heartbeat.
- Nervousness and anxiety: Increased irritability or unfounded anxiety.
- Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep or restless sleep.
- Heat intolerance: Excessive sweating and sensitivity to heat.
- Muscle pain: Especially in arms and legs.
- Eye changes: In Graves' disease, often protruding eyes.
- Menstrual disturbances: Light or irregular periods.
Importance of an accurate diagnosis
Since many of the symptoms mentioned above can also occur with other health conditions, a careful diagnosis through blood tests and a medical examination is crucial. Measuring thyroid hormone levels (TSH, fT4, and fT3) allows doctors to make an accurate diagnosis and initiate appropriate treatment.
Early detection and treatment of thyroid dysfunction can not only alleviate the symptoms mentioned above but also reduce the risk of long-term health problems. If you suspect you have a thyroid disorder, it is important to consult your doctor for appropriate examination and treatment.
With
Suitable tests for your hormone status
Thyroid Check Plus
Gain comprehensive insights into your thyroid health.
- Detailed Analysis: Measurement of TSH, fT3, fT4, and TPO antibodies.
- Early Detection: Identifies potential imbalances in thyroid function.
- Simple & Discreet: Sample collection from home with professional lab evaluation.
Understand your thyroid levels and take targeted actions for your health.
Thyroid Check
Keep an eye on your thyroid function – for more energy and well-being.
- Targeted Analysis: Measurement of the key thyroid hormones TSH, fT3, and fT4.
- Early Detection: Identifies hormonal imbalances before symptoms occur.
- Simple & Convenient: Sample collection from home with professional lab analysis.
Understand your thyroid levels and make informed decisions for your health.
Burnout Stress Check
Chronic stress often goes unnoticed – learn how your body reacts to it.
- Precise stress analysis: Measurement of your cortisol and DHEA-S levels.
- Early detection: Identifies stressors before they affect your health.
- Convenient & discreet: Sampling easily from home.
Identify potential stressors and gain valuable insights for your well-being.
How can I ensure that my thyroid is healthy?
To ensure that your thyroid is functioning healthily, you should regularly check your thyroid levels such as the TSH basal level, fT4 , and fT3 .
This helps to detect disorders like hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism early.
These tests provide you with quick and precise results, allowing you to keep an eye on your thyroid health and discuss targeted measures with your doctor if necessary.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Hormone Status
What are the most common thyroid diseases?
What are the most common thyroid diseases?
The most common thyroid diseases are hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Both affect the hormonal balance and can lead to symptoms such as fatigue or weight changes.
How do I recognize a thyroid malfunction?
How do I recognize a thyroid malfunction?
Typical symptoms of a thyroid dysfunction include weight fluctuations, fatigue, nervousness, and concentration problems. A blood test for thyroid hormones provides precise information.
What can I do to support my thyroid health?
What can I do to support my thyroid health?
A balanced diet, sufficient iodine intake, and regular medical check-ups are important to keep the thyroid healthy.
How are thyroid diseases treated?
How are thyroid diseases treated?
The treatment depends on the type of disease. In the case of an underactive condition, hormone replacement therapy is often used, while an overactive condition is treated with medication or, in rare cases, surgically.
