Thyroid Hormones and the Tests that Monitor Them

The metabolism of the body is regulated by thyroid hormones. These include the T-4, T-3, Reverse T-3 and TSH (the last one being a pituitary hormone). The levels of these hormones are tested to determine thyroid function and to detect hormone disorders but some of them continue to be retested at regular intervals, to monitor thyroid hormone replacement therapy as well. Thyroid patients who are better educated in regard to these hormones have better ability to be proactive in their treatments and communicate with their doctors so that they receive the best possible results from their hormone replacement therapies. This book (approx. 9,560 words in length) is not intended to be an extensive manual but is intended to contain information most often sought by laypersons on the subject. CONTENTS: Chapter One: The Purpose of Thyroid Function Hormones Chapter Two: The Best Blood Tests of Thyroid Function Chapter Three: Interpreting Your Blood Lab Results Chapter Four: TSH for Monitoring Thyroid Hormone Therapy Chapter Five: Newly Diagnosed/Treated Patients Chapter Six: Differences between Diagnostic and Treatment TSH Chapter Seven: Thyroid Supplements Vs Thyroid Hormones Chapter Eight: T-4 versus Combination T-4 and T-3 Hormone Medication Chapter Nine: Symptoms of Thyroid Hormone Imbalance