FREE T4 (FREE THYROXINE)

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.

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.

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

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

• 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.

• 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.

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

The Price of a Free T4 Test is Rs. 200. However, cost of the test may fluctuate depending on following factors:

1. Other tests advised along with this thyroid test
2. Offers or discounts
3. Empanelment of the patient

• 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.