Thyroid TSH test: when is it ordered and how is the result read?

A patient talking with a doctor in a clinic

This article is for general awareness and is not medical advice or a substitute for evaluation by a qualified doctor. In an emergency in Saudi Arabia, call 997 immediately.

What is TSH?

TSH is a hormone made by the pituitary gland in the brain to stimulate the thyroid. It is usually the first test used to check how the thyroid is working, sometimes with free T4 or T3.

When is it ordered?

Symptoms such as ongoing tiredness, unexplained weight change, feeling unusually cold or hot, a fast heartbeat or hair loss.
Before or during pregnancy, as your doctor decides.
To follow up people taking thyroid treatment.

How the result is read in general

A high TSH may point to an underactive thyroid, because the body is trying to stimulate it more. A low TSH may point to an overactive thyroid. But the normal range differs between laboratories and is affected by pregnancy, age and some medicines and illnesses, so your doctor reads it together with free T4 and your symptoms.

Don't start thyroid medicine or change its dose without your doctor. A very fast heartbeat with shortness of breath or chest pain needs the emergency department or a call to 997.

Tips before the test

Tell your doctor about all your medicines and supplements; some supplements such as biotin can affect certain test results.
If you are on treatment, ask when to take your medicine on the day of the test.
Keep previous results for comparison. Read why keep a copy of your medical file.

Where does HealTrip fit in?

HealTrip is working to organise your tests and reports in one file, so your doctor reads each result in its full context, while the medical decision stays with them.

Be among the first to join HealTrip

HealTrip is a Saudi health platform in pre-launch. Register your interest as a patient, doctor, or healthcare facility, and we'll contact you at launch.

Thyroid TSH test: how to read the result