Thyroid tsh18.66 why?

The : The most common cause for this increase in TSH is that your thyroid gland is failing or underactive. We call this hypothyroidism. A free T4 should be checked and anti-thyroid peroxidase test may be of help. You will need thyroid hormone therapy. See the links below.

The : The simple answer is that your body is hungry for thyroid hormone. Tsh is a hormone made by the pituitary gland and is responsible for regulating the secretion of thyroid hormone from your thyroid gland, a butterfly shaped endocrine gland in the lower part of your neck and in front of your windpipe. It stands for thyroid stimulating hormone and if elevated in the presence of low t4, you have primary hypothyroidism (high TSH in the presence of normal T4 is called subclinical or compensated hypothyroidism). Sometimes, TSH elevation can be transient (seen in newborns) but with a high TSH level as what you are quoting, you will likely need T4 supplementation. Talk with your physician if repeat testing is needed before you are committed to any form of therapy. Good luck. Cayce t. Jehaimi, M.D., faap pediatric endocrinology & diabetes the children's hospital of southwest florida fort myers, fl usa.