Understanding 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 control important body functions such as heart rate and calorie consumption.
Three key levels 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 hypothyroidism, while low levels indicate hyperthyroidism. fT4 and fT3 indicate the amount of active hormones in the blood that are 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 according to gender and age
The TSH basal value
Basal TSH refers to the concentration of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in the blood under basal or resting conditions, typically after an overnight fast. Measurement of this level is often performed as part of a routine examination or when a thyroid disorder is suspected.
Normal TSH values may vary slightly depending on the laboratory, but in general 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, which leads to a slowdown in metabolism. The symptoms often develop gradually and can be varied:
- Fatigue and weakness: Constant exhaustion despite sufficient sleep.
- Weight gain: Unexplained weight gain despite consistent diet.
- Cold intolerance: Hypersensitivity to cold.
- Skin and hair changes: dry, pale skin and hair loss.
- Cognitive problems: difficulty concentrating and memory problems.
- Digestive disorders: frequent constipation.
- Mood changes: depression or apathy.
- Menstrual disorders: Irregular or heavy bleeding in women.
hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
In contrast to hypothyroidism, in hyperthyroidism the thyroid produces too many hormones, which speeds up the metabolism. Typical symptoms are:
- Weight loss: Despite increased appetite.
- Palpitations: Irregular heartbeat or rapid heartbeat.
- Nervousness and anxiety: Increased irritability or unreasonable fear.
- Sleep disorders: difficulty falling asleep or restless sleep.
- Heat intolerance: Excessive sweating and sensitivity to heat.
- Muscle pain: Especially in the arms and legs.
- Eye changes: In Graves disease, often bulging eyes.
- Menstrual disorders: light or irregular periods .
Importance of an accurate diagnosis
Since many of the symptoms listed above can occur in other health conditions, 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 relieve 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 evaluation and treatment.
With Probatix you can reliably check the three important values with our thyroid test . If you would like to have an even more precise picture of a possible hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, you should take a closer look at our Thyroid Check Plus .
Suitable tests for your hormone status
Thyroid Check Plus
An imbalance in thyroid hormones can have a variety of health effects, from weight fluctuations to mood swings. With our Thyroid Check Plus, you get a clear overview of your thyroid function so that you can identify potential problems early and take targeted countermeasures to improve your health and quality of life.
Thyroid Check
The thyroid check is crucial for your well-being, as the thyroid plays a central role in regulating metabolism, energy production and general hormone levels. This check allows dysfunctions to be identified and treated at an early stage.
Burnout Stress Check
Our burnout stress check gives you a comprehensive insight into your physical stress levels and possible burnout signs. With this test, you can take early action to protect your health and performance.
How can I make sure my thyroid is healthy?
To ensure that your thyroid is functioning healthily, you should regularly check your thyroid levels such as basal TSH , fT4 and fT3 .
This helps to detect disorders such as an overactive or underactive thyroid at an early stage. Probatix offers convenient blood tests that you can easily do at home or in the pharmacy.
These tests provide you with accurate results quickly so you can 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 hormone levels and can lead to symptoms such as fatigue or weight changes.
How do I recognize a thyroid dysfunction?
How do I recognize a thyroid dysfunction?
Typical symptoms of a thyroid dysfunction are 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?
Treatment depends on the type of disease. In the case of hypothyroidism, hormone replacement therapy is often used, while hyperthyroidism is treated with medication or, in rare cases, surgery.
