Screening for Hypothyroidism
by
Cynthia M. Johnson, MA Screening is done to find a health problem early and treat it. Tests are often given to people who do not have signs but who may be at high risk for the health problem. Screening GuidelinesGroups have differing screening guidelines. Talk to your doctor about whether you should have screening tests. Screening may be needed in groups that are at higher risk, such as:
Screening TestsA physical exam may show signs of hypothyroidism, such as dry skin, a slow pulse, or slowed reflexes. Your health history may show symptoms of weight gain, tiredness, and constipation. The best screening tool is a blood test that measures thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). A high level of TSH points to hypothyroidism. If this is high, then your doctor may order a free thyroxine (FT4).
References:Jonklaas J, Bianco AC, Bauer AJ, et al. Guidelines for the treatment of hypothyroidism. Thyroid. 2014 Dec;24(12):1670-751. Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/endocrine-diseases/hypothyroidism. Updated August 2016. Accessed May 20, 2019. Hypothyroidism in adults. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
http://www.dynamed.... Updated July 20, 2018. Accessed May 20, 2019. Last reviewed March 2019 by
EBSCO Medical Review BoardJames P. Cornell, MD Last Updated: 5/20/2019 | ||
EBSCO Information Services is fully accredited by URAC. URAC is an independent, nonprofit health care accrediting organization dedicated to promoting health care quality through accreditation, certification and commendation. This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition. To send comments or feedback to our Editorial Team regarding the content please email us at healthlibrarysupport@ebsco.com. Our Health Library Support team will respond to your email request within 2 business days. |