A TFT blood test, or Thyroid Function Test, is a series of blood tests used to measure how well your thyroid gland is working. This gland, located in your neck, produces hormones that regulate your metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature.
These tests typically check the levels of several key hormones:
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH): This hormone is produced by the pituitary gland and tells your thyroid how much thyroid hormone to produce.
- Thyroxine (T4): This is the main thyroid hormone produced by your thyroid gland.
- Triiodothyronine (T3): This is another thyroid hormone that is active in the body.
Doctors may also order additional tests to assess thyroid antibodies, which can indicate certain autoimmune thyroid diseases.
Thyroid function tests are often used to:
- Diagnose thyroid disorders: These include hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
- Monitor thyroid treatment: If you are receiving treatment for a thyroid disorder, these tests can help your doctor determine if the treatment is working.
- Screen for thyroid problems: Some people may undergo thyroid function tests as part of a routine health checkup or if they have symptoms of thyroid disease.
Examples:
- A person experiencing fatigue, weight gain, and feeling cold could have hypothyroidism. A TFT blood test could help confirm the diagnosis.
- A person with anxiety, weight loss, and increased heart rate could have hyperthyroidism. A TFT blood test could help diagnose this condition.
