A free thyroxine test (FT4), often called a free T4 test, measures the amount of free thyroxine in your blood. T4 circulates in the blood in two forms: free form (FT4) and bound form. Thyroxine (T4) is a hormone secreted by the thyroid gland and is essential for growth and metabolism. The FT4 test helps to diagnose any suspected thyroid disease (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism) and to check the treatment efficacy in people diagnosed with thyroid condition. Higher T4 levels could indicate an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) and shows symptoms like excessive appetite, anxiety, heart palpitations, sweating, shortness of breath, and weight loss. Abnormally low thyroxine level leads to hypothyroidism and causes symptoms like weakness, cold intolerance, weight gain, and dry skin.
Thyroxine, also known as T4, is released by the thyroid gland and is mainly bound to proteins in the bloodstream. However, a small portion of T4 circulates in its free form as FT4 and is biologically active.
FT4 levels are measured in a blood test to assess the amount of active thyroid hormone available in the body. This provides valuable information about the functioning of the thyroid gland. High levels of FT4 may indicate an overactive thyroid or hyperthyroidism, which can lead to symptoms like weight loss, increased heart rate, anxiety, and heat intolerance. On the other hand, low levels of FT4 may indicate an underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism, which can cause symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, and depression.
Measuring FT4 levels, along with other thyroid-related hormones such as thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and free triiodothyronine (FT3), helps healthcare professionals get a comprehensive picture of thyroid function.
Interpretation of FT4 levels should be done by a healthcare professional who will consider the individual's symptoms, medical history, and other factors. Treatment for abnormal FT4 levels may involve hormone replacement therapy with synthetic thyroid hormones to restore the balance and alleviate symptoms associated with thyroid dysfunction.
Regular monitoring of FT4 levels may be necessary to ensure optimal thyroid function and adjustment of medication dosage, if required. It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation, diagnosis, and management of thyroid disorders.
Report Time:
24 Hours
Fasting Time:
Free
Recommended Test:
Male, Female
Recommended age:
5-99 Years
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