Understanding Normal TSH Levels: What You Need to Know

According to labtestsonline.org ("Lab Tests Online"), it is recommended by the American Thyroid Association that an individual 35 years of age and older should get a thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) test done at least once every five years, whether they have a pre-existing thyroid condition or not.

Function

• TSH levels are measured to determine whether or not an individual has a thyroid disorder. Once a diagnosis is made, TSH levels are measured again to determine if the proper treatment and medication has been administered. TSH levels can also diagnose hypothyroidism in infants.

Types

• A low TSH result means that the thyroid gland is producing an excessive amount of hormones, meaning that the individual has hyperthyroidism. A high TSH result means that the thyroid is not producing enough hormones, which is indicative of hypothyroidism.

Normal TSH Levels

• According to nih.gov, normal TSH levels in a person who has never had a thyroid disorder should be between 0.4 and 4.0 mIU/L.

Normal TSH Levels for Thyroid Patients

• An individual who is undergoing treatment for hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism should have a TSH level between 0.5 and 3.0 mIU/L.

Prevention/Solution

• If an individual has a TSH level that is out of range, he must work with a doctor to treat the thyroid. Blood tests will then be given to test measure the individual's TSH levels.