Blood Test for Hashimoto's Disease

How it Works

How do you test for Hashimoto's Disease?

Hashimoto's Disease, also called Chronic Thyroiditis, is a disorder in which the body's own immune system attacks the thyroid gland.  The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the neck.  Hormones produced by the thyroid contribute to a number of your body's processes including metabolism.  Hashmoto's is the most common cause of hypothyroidism, an underactive thyroid.  Hashimoto's can develop at any age but is most commonly seen in middle-aged women.  It can often take months or even years for the disease to develop to the point that it becomes noticeable.  In many early cases, the only symptom is a goiter, swelling in the neck caused by an enlarged thyroid.  As the disease progresses, the most common symptoms include constipation, dry skin, fatigue, hair loss, sensitivity to cold weight gain, and difficulty concentrating.  These same symptoms can be caused by other disorders so blood testing is usually necessary to identify Hashimoto's.

Blood Tests for Hashimoto's Hypothyroidism

Blood testing for Hashimoto's Disease typically involves checking hormone levels to asses thyroid function as well as looking for antibodies that are produced as part of the immune response against the thyroid gland.  

• Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH): TSH is produced by the pituitary gland to signal the thyroid to produce several hormones.  High TSH can indicate that the thyroid is underperforming.
• T4 (Thyroxine): T4 is the primary hormone produced by the thyroid.  Low T4 levels along with high TSH levels can confirm that there is a problem with the thyroid gland.
• Free T4: Measuring the free or unbound portion of T4 is often more useful than just measuring total T4.
• Triiodothyronine (T3): T3 is another hormone produced by the thyroid.  It is sometimes measured along with T4 to determine if the thyroid is performing normally.
• Thyroid Peroxidase (TPO) Antibody: TRO is a protein in the thyroid.  Antibodies to TPO are one of the most common signs of an autoimmune disorder caused by Hashimoto's.  Around 90% of Hashimoto's cases will show elevated TPO antibody levels.
• Thyroglobulin Antibodies: Another type of autoantibody found in some cases of Hashimoto's

A combination of blood test results and clinical symptoms can help to diagnose Hashimoto's Disease or differentiate it from other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.

Where can I order testing for Hashimoto's Disease?

Request A Test is a nationwide provider of affordable lab testing that anyone can order.  There's no need to schedule a doctor's appointment or get approval from insurance.  Just order the testing you need, and go to a lab near you.  We offer a variety of thyroid tests, both individually and in packages for extra savings. If you feel unwell, don't wait to take charge of your health.  You can get your own blood testing and then follow up with your doctor to determine the next step.  If you need help selecting the tests that are right for you, the Request A Test team is here to help.  Visit us online or call 888-732-2348 to get started.

Why Choose Us?

• Since 2002, we have a proven track record of offering excellent customer service, affordable pricing with no hidden fees, and our enduring commitment to protect your personal information.
• No doctor's order? (No problem!) Our national physician network provides the required doctor's order for the lab. Insurance is not needed to order lab testing nor will your insurance company be billed.
• We are partnered with two of the largest CLIA-certified labs in the US, to offer you the latest lab testing technology with prompt and accurate results. (These are the same labs used by hospitals and physicians.)
• With over 3,600 lab locations to choose from and same-day collection, we make lab testing quick and convenient. No appointment is needed. Find your local lab with our location finder.
• We offer an extensive and detailed test menu. Ordering can be done online or over the phone. Not finding a test? Simply give us a call.

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