THYROID STIMULATING HORMONE (TSH) is the pituitary hormone which controls thryoid gland function. It stimulates the thyroid to produce thyroid hormone. When the thyroid gland fails, due to primary disease of the thyroid, pituitary TSH increases. This condition is called hypothyroidism. In contrast, when the thyroid gland is overactive and producing too much thyroid hormone, the serum TSH decreases. This is called primary hyperthyroidism. Both primary hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can be detected by the sensitive TSH method. In addition, the TSH test can tell if your dose of thyroid hormone is correct, should you be taking that medication.

Recommended for persons with symptoms such as increased or slowed heart rate, unexplained weight loss or weight gain, diarrhea or constipation, nervousness, irritability, difficulty sleeping, sweating, tremors, puffy feet or hands, thick dry skin or slower mental functions.