The LSH blood test results are a measurement of an individual’s thyroid stimulating hormone. Sometimes it may be referred to as a Tsh test. It is primarily used to determine if the thyroid is functioning correctly if a patient presents to a medical provider with symptoms that indicate hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
This hormone is produced by the pituitary gland, which is located behind the sinuses and just below the brain. In many ways, it is a system that provides the body with needed feedback in regards to the amount of energy that is required to complete daily tasks. It may be ordered in combination with other thyroid tests or can be ordered on its own to determine if the hormone is even present. It is also part of a complete thyroid panel.
When Is the LSH Blood Test Ordered?
The LSH blood test is typically ordered when someone is experiencing the symptoms of an overactive or underactive thyroid gland. This may include enhanced levels of anxiety, an increased pulse, hand tremors, the feeling of weakness, puffiness around the eyes, and a sensitivity to light. Some people may also have visual disturbances. These are all indications of an overactive thyroid.
Others may experience dry skin, an intolerance to the cold, and unexpected weight gain. These are common signs of an underactive thyroid. There may also be hair loss, skin that feels swollen or puffy to the touch, ongoing constipation, ongoing fatigue, and irregularity in menstrual patterns.
For those who have a known thyroid disorder, the LSH blood test may be ordered regularly every 6-8 weeks to monitor treatment. Infants and newborns may also have this test completed as part of an initial screening to determine if there are any health needs which need to be addressed. It is not typically ordered, however, as a screening test for adults until the age of 60.
What Do My LSH Blood Test Results Mean?
The amount of hormones that are discovered in the LSH blood test will typically be reported as being high, normal, or low. If the test results are high, then this may be an indication that there is either acute or chronic thyroid dysfunction occurring. It can also mean that someone is receiving too much medication, the presence of a tumor on the pituitary gland, or there is not enough medication being received.
Normal results indicate that the body is functioning as it should and that the symptoms being experienced have a different explanation.
Low test results may also indicate a medication issue, especially for those who are undergoing thyroid therapies. It also may indicate that the thyroid gland is not working properly due to injury or a genetic cause that has created more activity than is needed.
The problem with the LSH blood test is that it can indicate whether there are excessive or negligible amounts of stimulating hormones within the body, but it doesn’t give a specific reason as to why this is occurring. That’s why a full panel is typically ordered. If the test results are abnormal and the LSH blood test was ordered on its own, then T3 and T4 blood tests will typically be ordered as a follow-up.
Here’s What You Need to Know About the LSH Blood Test
Certain thyroid testing may indicate that there are co-existing health conditions that are contributing to the abnormal results seen on the LSH blood test. This may include severe health issues, such as liver disease or the presence of a systemic illness, but it may also just confirm the presence of a pregnancy or the consumption of excess estrogen.
People who take aspirin on a regular basis can affect their hormone levels. Even low dose aspirin therapies can cause false results to be received. Anyone taking aspirin should inform their medical provider of this before the LSH blood test is ordered so accurate results can be achieved.
Certain lifestyle habits may also affect results. People who are under extreme levels of stress or have an ongoing illness should avoid having the LSH blood test until the illness is over or stress levels are reduced so that the results are not impacted.
Most levels of the stimulating hormone are not directly related to lifestyle habits, however, so abnormal tests for someone that is relatively free from stress or illness is an indication that there is something which needs to be addressed. Discuss any bothersome symptoms with a medical provider right away and use this guide to discuss the pros and cons of the LSH blood test during your appointment.