Your thyroid function is crucial to your overall well-being.
The butterfly-shaped gland controls the thyroid hormone, which impacts the function ofeverysingle cell in the body.
Luckily at-home testing has made it easier than ever totest your thyroid levels.
(Of course, its alsoa blood test you should ask forat your annual visit.)
But how do you know which companies are reliable?
Below, weve rounded up the five best at-home thyroid tests offering accurate, valuable results.
Your results will be available online just one day after the sample arrives at the lab for testing.
Any questions raised by your results can be answered in a free consult with a nurse.
However, further testing and treatment will need to go through your healthcare provider.
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Plus, the companys sleek and discreet packaging is easy to read and understand.
Similar to other options, it requires a blood sample via fingerprick.
Once back at the lab, it should take less than 5 days to get results.
In select states, these physicians can even prescribe medications.
Plus, theyre covered by HSA and FSA, and keep results securely locked down with HIPAA security protocols.
However, it is FSA- and HSA-approved with results available in about a week.
Every blood sample collected is tested for FT3, FT4, TSH, and thyroid antibodies.
Additionally, Paloma focuses on hypothyroid, which is low-thyroid hormone only.
These options offer the most comprehensive testing for the cost.
All of the tests in this list use CLIA-certified labs to process your sample.
These are the same labs that your doctors office would use.
However, there are some differences in who reviews the results.
So you found out you have an issue with your thyroid…now what?
What does the thyroid do?
The thyroid produces two main hormones: triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4).
In fact, youd be hard pressed to find something your thyroiddidntimpact.
Humans cannot live without a thyroid hormone.
When your thyroid is unhealthy, a few things may occur.
An underactive thyroid is one of the most common thyroid conditions,affecting 5% of the global population1.
Hyperthyroidism is on the other end of the spectrum.
It comes up whenever the thyroid is hyperactive and produces too many thyroid hormones.
What are at-home thyroid tests?
Similar to in-office tests, at-home thyroid tests analyze your blood for levels of a myriad of biomarkers.
Instead TSH is produced by the pituitary gland and triggers the production of T3 and T4.
In fact, a2018 study2found that screening for thyroid issues using a TSH test can actually miss hypothyroidism.
Therefore, a normal TSH level does not ensure the thyroid is operating normally.
As previously mentioned, the first two are hormones directly produced by the thyroid.
Occasionally, the body may be blocked from making T3, instead overproducing rT3.
This metabolite acts like a brake on the thyroid’s function, slowing down metabolism.
As a result, it kickstarts many of the same symptoms as hypothyroidism, including weight gain.
How do at-home thyroid tests work?
Although some at-home thyroid tests claim to be completely painless, its a loose claim.
With any at-home test, there is room for user error.
(However, most brands offer free replacements.)
Who should use an at-home thyroid test?
However, any adjustments in medication should only be done under the supervision of your health provider.
Remember: At-home testing shouldneverbe used as a replacement for care from a healthcare practitioner.
When is the best time of day to test your thyroid?
The best time of day to test the thyroid is in the morning before noon, according to Barbour.
Thus, it’s best to complete testing as early as possible after waking up.
FAQ:
Are at-home thyroid tests accurate?
Yes, at-home tests use the same CLIA-certified labs, just like healthcare providers.
What is the most accurate thyroid test?
These home tests may provide a more accurate, comprehensive view over those that test TSH alone.
What are early warning signs of thyroid problems?
Thyroid issues can manifest in a variety of ways.
Some common signs and symptoms include fatigue, weight gain/loss, depression, and even impaired memory.
Are at-home thyroid tests covered by insurance?
Typically, at-home tests are not covered by insurance.
However, they qualify as a medical test for most HSA and FSA users.
Can I check my thyroid levels at home?
Yes, using an at-home thyroid test is a great way to get insight into your thyroid health.
However, it is only a test.
The takeaway
Taking charge of your health has never been easier.
Just be sure to follow up with your healthcare practitioner for any abnormal results.
