A home thyroid test kit allows you to test for the underactive thyroid hormone (also known as hypothyroidism) by using just a finger prick of human blood. What is the thyroid? The thyroid can be found in the front of your neck just below the Adam's apple and is a small butterfly shaped gland where hormones are produced and released into the bloodstream. The thyroid hormones are very important as they control the rate at which the body uses and stores energy from the food we eat (the metabolic rate). What causes thyroid problems? Thyroid problems can result from either of the following causes: Overactive thyroid If the thyroid is overactive it produces too much T3 and T4, this condition is known as hyperthyroidism or thyrotoxicosis. Underactive thyroid If the thyroid is underactive it doesn't produce enough T3 or T4, this condition is known as hypothyroidism ('hypo' means under). An underactive thyroid is the most common thyroid problem and is more common in women and people over the age of 60, though the condition can be present at birth. What causes hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)? In babies it is not known what causes hypothyroidism. In older children and adults, the most common cause of hypothyroidism is due to the autoimmune disease, called Hashimoto's disease, which tends to run in families. An autoimmune disease occurs when the immune system, which normally produces antibodies to attack foreign substances (like viruses and other bugs), starts producing antibodies which attack part(s) of the body. In people with hypothyroidism the immune system attacks the thyroid cells as if they were foreign substances. Other possible causes may include complications from previous thyroid surgery, treatment for previous hyperthyroidism or certain medications, such as Lithium and Amiodarone. Why should I take this Thyroid test? This test looks for the level of TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) in capillary blood. A raised TSH level is an indication of an underactive thyroid (Hypothyroidism) What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism? In hypothyroidism the thyroid is underactive and so the rate of metabolism slows down. As hypothyroidism usually develops slowly you may have no symptoms until the condition is well advanced. The symptoms you may have might be blamed on old age and can vary in severity but as your metabolism continues to slow, the symptoms should become more obvious. The symptoms may include any of the following: Feeling tired and lacking energy. A tendency to feel the cold more than healthy people. Heart may beat slower. Weight gain and difficulty in losing it. Irregular or heavy periods. A hoarse, croaky voice. Forgetfulness Depression Later symptoms may include constipation, dry, pale skin and dry hair, which may be brittle and break easier. For a more detailed explanation about the thyroid gland and why you can have an under or over active thyroid gland please click here. CONTENTS: 1x Test Cassette 1x Capillary Dropper, 1x buffer, 1x alcohol pad, 2x lancets instructions for use.
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