Untreated thyroid disease can cause miscarriage , premature birth , or low birth weight. It can also cause preeclampsia. Hormones secreted during pregnancy can affect TSH levels, altering them from your typical numbers.
This chart provides an overview of normal, low, and high TSH levels for pregnant women who are between 18 and 45 years old:. Talk to your doctor about your TSH levels during pregnancy. Your doctor can determine if you need thyroid medication or if your existing thyroid medication needs to be adjusted based on the desired TSH levels for the different stages of pregnancy.
If your TSH level is lower than it should be, you may have hyperthyroidism. This occurs when the pituitary gland senses thyroid hormone levels that are too high and compensates by decreasing TSH production. Many symptoms of hyperthyroidism are also caused by other conditions.
Older adults may have little to no symptoms. If your TSH level is higher than it should be, you may have hypothyroidism. This occurs when the pituitary gland overcompensates for low amounts of thyroid hormone by pumping out more TSH. This condition is most common in older women, but it can occur in any gender at any age. Infants with congenital hypothyroidism can also be born with high TSH levels.
The risks and complications of underactive thyroid vary based on age. Hypothyroidism can be asymptomatic in its early stages. As it progresses, you may experience some or all of these symptoms below. Many of the symptoms are nonspecific and can be seen in other conditions as well.
Having a doctor monitor your thyroid gland and its production of thyroid hormones is the only way to comprehensively determine thyroid health. It works in partnership with the pituitary and hypothalamus glands. These glands stimulate the thyroid to secrete two hormones, which are then released into the bloodstream: T4 and T3.
If your thyroid gland produces too much T4, hyperthyroidism overactive thyroid can result. A doctor will diagnose a thyroid disorder by reviewing your medical history, conducting a physical examination, and doing multiple tests, including a blood test.
In some, but not all, instances, you may need a thyroid ultrasound or thyroid scan. Treatments for hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can change over time, based on the severity of the condition and your response to medication. Hypothyroidism is treated with levothyroxine Synthroid , a synthetic thyroid hormone. Your dosage may change over time and is usually adjusted based on blood levels.
Hyperthyroidism may be treated several ways. Although TSH is the best test for most patients on thyroxine replacement, those who have pituitary disease or previous pituitary surgery or radiation, are usually followed with measurement of free thyroxine, rather than a TSH.
Take a look at our Patient Web Brochure Hypothyroidism to learn more about hypothyroidism and how it is treated. Medical Disclaimer The information contained in or made available through the American Thyroid Association Website is not intended to replace the services of a trained health professional or to be a substitute for medical advice of physicians. The user should consult a physician in all matters relating to his or her health, and particularly in respect to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention.
The American Thyroid Association makes no representations or warranties with respect to any information offered or provided within or through the American Thyroid Association Website regarding treatment, action, or application of medication.
Some variation is normal because your pituitary gland sends out TSH in pulses, not a steady stream. TSH levels are likely to be higher at night and lower during the day. Some people, including those who are pregnant or those with a history of thyroid cancer , have different TSH goals. By subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Health Topics. Health Tools. By Beth W. Reviewed: January 30,
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