TSH
What influence does TSH have on our thyroid gland?
TSH stands for thyroid-stimulating hormone or thyrotropin. It is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland to stimulate the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. The thyroid hormones are thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which influence metabolism and many other body functions.
The TSH level in the blood provides information about the function of the thyroid gland. A normal TSH level means that the thyroid gland is producing enough hormones. An increased TSH level can indicate an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. A lower TSH level can indicate hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid gland produces too much hormone.
The TSH level can also be influenced by other factors, such as the time of day, age, pregnancy or taking medication. Therefore, the TSH value should always be interpreted in connection with the values of T4 and T3. The TSH value is an important biomarker for the diagnosis, therapy and follow-up of thyroid diseases.