Question 1

What is Hashimoto's disease?

Accepted Answer

Hashimoto's disease is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to chronic inflammation and reduced hormone production. It is caused by autoimmune antibodies that target thyroid peroxidase and thyroglobulin, progressively damaging thyroid tissue and causing hypothyroidism. The Thyroxine Free (FT4) Immunoassay is the most important test for diagnosis because it directly measures the level of active thyroid hormone in your blood.

Question 2

What causes Hashimoto's disease?

Accepted Answer

Hashimoto's disease is caused by an autoimmune reaction where your immune system mistakenly produces antibodies against thyroid peroxidase (TPO) and thyroglobulin, proteins essential for thyroid hormone production. These antibodies attack and gradually destroy thyroid tissue, leading to chronic inflammation called chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis. Over time, this damage reduces your thyroid's ability to produce adequate amounts of thyroid hormones like T4 and T3, resulting in hypothyroidism.

Question 3

What is the best test for Hashimoto's disease?

Accepted Answer

The Thyroxine Free (FT4) Immunoassay is the most important test for Hashimoto's disease because it measures the active, unbound thyroid hormone circulating in your bloodstream that's available to your body's cells. Low free T4 levels directly indicate that your thyroid gland isn't producing enough hormone due to autoimmune damage. The Thyroxine (T4) Total test is also essential as it measures both bound and free T4, providing a comprehensive picture of total thyroid hormone production. These tests are typically combined with TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) and thyroid antibody tests to confirm both the hypothyroidism and its autoimmune cause.

Question 4

When should I get tested for Hashimoto's disease?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience persistent fatigue, unexplained weight gain, feeling unusually cold, dry skin and hair, constipation, or brain fog and difficulty concentrating. Testing is especially important if you have a family history of thyroid disease or other autoimmune conditions, are a woman over 30, or recently gave birth and notice thyroid-related symptoms. Early detection through blood testing helps prevent progression to severe hypothyroidism and allows for timely treatment to restore your energy and metabolism.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of Hashimoto's disease?

Accepted Answer

Hashimoto's disease symptoms develop gradually as thyroid hormone levels decline. Common signs include persistent fatigue, unexplained weight gain despite normal eating, sensitivity to cold temperatures, constipation, dry skin and thinning hair, muscle weakness and aches, depression or mood changes, brain fog and memory problems, irregular or heavy menstrual periods, and a slowed heart rate. Some people also notice a goiter, which is a visible swelling at the front of the neck where the thyroid gland becomes enlarged.

Question 6

Who is at risk for Hashimoto's disease?

Accepted Answer

Women are 7 to 10 times more likely to develop Hashimoto's disease than men, with the highest risk occurring between ages 30 and 50. Your risk increases if you have a family history of thyroid disease or autoimmune conditions like type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or celiac disease. Other risk factors include having had a previous thyroid problem, receiving radiation therapy to your neck or chest, being pregnant or having recently given birth, and having excessive iodine intake from diet or medications.

Question 7

What happens if Hashimoto's disease is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated Hashimoto's disease leads to progressively worsening hypothyroidism that can cause serious health complications. Your metabolism slows significantly, potentially causing obesity, high cholesterol that increases heart disease risk, and cardiovascular problems including enlarged heart and heart failure. Severe hypothyroidism can lead to myxedema, a rare life-threatening condition causing extreme cold sensitivity, drowsiness, and unconsciousness. Women with untreated Hashimoto's may experience infertility, pregnancy complications, or birth defects. Mental health often deteriorates with severe depression and cognitive decline.

Question 8

Can Hashimoto's disease be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Hashimoto's disease is diagnosed through a combination of blood tests that measure thyroid function and detect autoimmune activity. The free T4 and total T4 tests show whether your thyroid is producing adequate hormone levels, typically showing low results in Hashimoto's. TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) is usually elevated as your pituitary gland tries to stimulate the failing thyroid. The definitive tests are thyroid antibody tests, specifically anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies, which are positive in about 90% of people with Hashimoto's disease.

Question 9

How is Hashimoto's disease treated?

Accepted Answer

Hashimoto's disease is primarily treated with daily thyroid hormone replacement medication, typically levothyroxine (Synthroid, Levoxyl), which supplements the hormones your thyroid can no longer produce adequately. Your doctor will start you on a specific dose based on your blood test results and adjust it over time through regular monitoring every 6 to 8 weeks initially, then annually once stable. Most people need to take this medication for life, but it effectively restores normal hormone levels and relieves symptoms. Treatment is highly effective when properly dosed, allowing most people to live normal, healthy lives.

Question 10

How can I prevent Hashimoto's disease?

Accepted Answer

Hashimoto's disease cannot be completely prevented because it's an autoimmune condition with genetic predisposition, but you can reduce your risk of triggering it. Maintain adequate but not excessive iodine intake through a balanced diet, as both deficiency and excess can trigger thyroid problems. Manage stress through regular exercise, adequate sleep, and relaxation techniques, as chronic stress may trigger autoimmune responses. Avoid smoking, which increases autoimmune disease risk. If you have other autoimmune conditions or family history, get regular thyroid screening to catch changes early before significant damage occurs.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with Hashimoto's disease?

Accepted Answer

While natural remedies cannot replace thyroid hormone medication, certain lifestyle strategies support thyroid health and reduce inflammation. Selenium supplementation (200 mcg daily) may help reduce thyroid antibody levels and support thyroid hormone metabolism. An anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids from fish, and avoiding processed foods can reduce autoimmune activity. Some people benefit from eliminating gluten, as celiac disease and gluten sensitivity are common in Hashimoto's patients. Stress reduction through yoga, meditation, and adequate sleep supports immune system balance. Always discuss supplements with your doctor, as some can interfere with thyroid medication absorption.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
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            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Hashimoto's Disease Blood Test

What is Hashimoto's disease?

What causes Hashimoto's disease?

What is the best test for Hashimoto's disease?

When should I get tested for Hashimoto's disease?

References

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