Overview
The Free T4 Test is advised to measure the level of Free Thyroxine (T4) in your Blood. T4 is one of the two main Hormones produced by the Thyroid Gland. T4 plays a vital role in regulating metabolism energy generation and overall growth & development. This test aids in the assessment of Thyroid function and aids in the diagnosis of Thyroid disorders such as Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid) and Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid). The Free T4 Test only measures the Hormone that is available to enter human tissues giving a more realistic picture of Thyroid health than the Total T4 Test which measures both bound and Free T4.
No special preparation like fasting is needed for this test. The technician will draw Blood from your Arms Vein or Finger tip for sample collection. The following details will help you understand about the best Free T4 Test in Jaipur.
What is the Free T4 Test ?
Normally, Thyroxine (T4) is attached to Proteins like Albumin and Thyroxine-Binding Globulin (TBG) while circulating in the bloodstream. The hormone's physiologically active form, known as Free T4 (FT4), is just a small percentage of the total T4 that is unbound. In order to control the body's metabolism and energy generation, a free T4 test is essential. Both free and total T4 levels are typically high in hyperthyroidism; however, the Free T4 Test offers a more precise assessment of thyroid function, particularly in circumstances where protein-binding is disrupted, like pregnancy or specific medical disorders. While lower levels may signify hypothyroidism, elevated FT4 levels are often linked to hyperthyroidism or excessive thyroid hormone replacement medication. In order to assess thyroid function and provide guidance, the Free T4 Test is crucial.
How is the Free T4 Test Done ?
The Blood Sample for Free T4 Test is taken in following steps:
- The area where the needle will be inserted to take your blood is cleaned with an antiseptic alcohol wipe. The hollow on the inside side of the elbow or the tip of the finger are the most common sites for this.
- A tourniquet or a band is tied around your upper arm to facilitate the access to the vein in your arm.
- A needle is used to puncture your vein. The blood sample is collected into a test tube attached to the needle. The needle may cause a small pinch or sting when it is inserted.
- Once the vial or test tube is filled, the blood sample collection for the test is finished and the needle is taken out.
- Finger pressure is applied on the puncture site to stop the bleeding and the band aid is applied at the site.
What is the Purpose of the Free T4 Test ?
Free T4 Test is advised to for following analysis:
- Follow up on an abnormal TSH test result
- Diagnose hyperthyroidism, a condition involving an overactive thyroid gland
- Monitor T4 levels if you are on thyroid replacement therapy
- Diagnose hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland is underactive
- Screen for an underactive thyroid gland in newborn babies
- Evaluate other disorders, such as goiters, thyroid nodules, and problems with the pituitary or hypothalamus gland
When is a Free T4 Test Recommended ?
If you have following symptoms, then Free T4 Test is advised:
- Fatigue
- Feeling cold
- Weight gain
- Painful joints and muscles
- Thin and/or dry hair
- Dry skin
- Slow heart rate
- Depression
- Constipation
- Irregular menstrual periods
- Fertility problems
Components of Free T4 Test
- Free T4 (Thyroxine): The main Hormone that the Thyroid Gland produces is T4, which the body then transforms into T3. Free T4 levels are essential for tracking Thyroid Hormone replacement treatment and for the diagnosis of Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism.
Preparation for Free T4 Test
- Unless otherwise directed by your doctor, there is no need for you to make any special preparations before the Free T4 Test.
- Other blood tests can be carried out in addition to a Free T4 Test. If your doctor advises you to have multiple tests at once, they may ask you to fast for a specific period of time prior to a blood test.
- Drink adequate water before sample collection.
- Avoid vigorous physical activity before the sample collection.
- Follow the preparatory instructions as guided by your doctor.
Interpreting the Free T4 Test Results
If T4 results are lower than normal:
- Hypothyroidism (due to Hashimoto disease or another medical condition that causes your thyroid to make too little T4)
- Thyroiditis (thyroid inflammation)
- Side effects from certain drugs
- Congenital hypothyroidism (a condition that affects babies from birth)
If T4 results are higher than normal:
- Hyperthyroidism, which may be caused by Graves disease or another medical condition that causes your thyroid to make too much T4
- Thyroiditis (thyroid inflammation)
- Toxic goiter (an enlarged thyroid with areas that make extra thyroid hormone)
- Toxic thyroid nodule (a single lump on the thyroid that makes extra thyroid hormone)
- Too much iodine in your diet
- Noncancerous (not cancer) tumor in your pituitary gland
What is the Cost of a Free T4 Test ?
The Price of a Free T4 Test is Rs. 200. However, cost of the test may fluctuate depending on following factors:
- Other tests advised along with this thyroid test
- Offers or discounts
- Empanelment of the patient
How to Schedule A Free T4 Test with Dr. B. Lal Lab ?
- Go to the Dr. B. Lal Lab website.
- Go to the “Book a test” tab.
- Select the “Lab Test” tab.
- Type “Free T4 Test” in the search bar.
- Click on the test.
- The test page with all the test details will show up.
- Click on “Book Now”.
- Login and verify your mobile number with OTP.
- Now enter your details.
- Select date & time for booking a Free T4 Test in Jaipur.
- Check out.
+91 9166125555
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