Thyroid Test

Home Test - €79

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Please note: due to An Post operating hours over the Christmas period, your home test will not be shipped until the 2nd of January at the earliest. This is so the results of your test can be processed efficiently. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.
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As a laya healthcare member you may be entitled to claim some or all of the cost of your home test kits (subject to your outpatient excess). Simply log onto your dedicated Member Area on layahealthcare.ie and check under everyday medical expenses.

This thyroid test measures the level of thyroid hormones (FT3, FT4 and TSH) in the blood, allowing for the detection of thyroid disorders such as hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). 

The thyroid gland is located just at the level of the voicebox (larynx) in the neck. It produces a hormone called thyroxine which has an effect on all of the cells of the tissues in the body. This hormone sets the rate at which the cells burn energy. Sometimes the function of this gland can be altered. This can result in a state where the thyroid is either underactive or overactive. These conditions can develop slowly over many months or even years. By having these hormone levels checked on a regular basis with a thyroid test, such conditions can be detected earlier and treated appropriately.

A small sample of blood is used to measure the levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine (FT3), and free thyroxine (FT4). TSH functions to produce the hormones FT3 and FT4. FT3 and FT4 are produced by the thyroid and function to control your metabolism. The amounts of each hormone are important in maintaining a healthy metabolic rate. 

Common symptoms associated with a thyroid disorder:

  • Fatigue
  • Muscle weakness
  • Large fluctuations in weight
  • Dry skin
  • Changes in bowel habits
  • Brittle hair
  • Irregular menstrual cycles

The thyroid test is sent to the lab, and the results of your thyroid test will be delivered to your confidential medical file on the careoncall.ie website. The results will be assessed by an Irish registered doctor, and if further action is required (such as a referral to a specialist), you will be supported to ensure you get the best care.

What is the thyroid test for?

The test is used to check thyroid function by measuring the level of thyroid hormones in the blood.

What is the Thyroid Hormone?

Thyroid hormone is a substance which is produced by the thyroid gland located in the neck. This hormone sets the rate at which the cells burn energy. Sometimes the functioning of this gland can change, resulting in a state where the thyroid is either underactive or overactive. These conditions can develop slowly over many months or even years. By having these hormone levels checked on a regular basis with a thyroid test, such conditions can be detected earlier and treated appropriately.

Who can have this test?

Anyone over the age of 25 can have the thyroid test.

Why should I have this test?

Knowing your thyroid function will enable appropriate treatment in the event that the gland is underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive (hyperthyroidism).

How is the thyroid test done?

Take a finger prick blood test using the kit provided and then the sample is posted by you to the Lab.

How will I get the results?

The results will be posted in your confidential medical file on the careoncall.ie website. The results will be assessed, and if further action is required, you will be advised as to what the next steps are.