New England · TSH Blood Test - Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone Test
TSH Blood Test - Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone Test in Maine
This page explains the tsh blood test - thyroid-stimulating hormone test, what it measures, and how to order it. This test measures thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in your blood to help assess thyroid gland function.
What this test is
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that tells your thyroid gland how much thyroid hormone to make. This test measures the amount of TSH in your blood.
What it measures
- TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone) — reflects the pituitary gland's signal to the thyroid
What the test involves
A healthcare professional will collect a blood sample, usually from a vein in your arm, using a needle. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Why it is often ordered
Clinicians often order this test to evaluate symptoms of an overactive or underactive thyroid gland. It is also used to monitor thyroid conditions and treatments.
Preparation
Follow any specific instructions provided by the laboratory regarding food or drink consumption before your test. Some medications may affect results, so inform your doctor about all you are taking.
How results are reported
Your TSH test results will indicate the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone in your blood. Reference ranges, which help interpret these results, vary between laboratories.
Before you go
- Fasting requirements
- Medication interference
- Specimen collection time
Cities
TSH Blood Test - Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone Test in Maine communities
Choose your city for local context and to request this test.