Biologically active substances - hormones - are produced in small quantities, but it is difficult to overestimate their importance in the human body. Thyroid-stimulating hormone of the pituitary gland, or TSH, affects the activity of the thyroid gland, and through it, many organs and systems of the human body.
What is TSH?
This hormone, like many others, is produced in the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland. It enters the thyroid gland through the blood, where it stimulates the production of two other hormones: triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). And they regulate metabolic processes in almost all human tissues, organs and systems. Their relationship is very close.
Not only does TSH stimulate the synthesis of T3 and T4, but these hormones also influence the production of TSH. Excess thyroid hormones suppress TSH synthesis.
TSH affects the functioning of the thyroid gland: if it is in excess, hyperthyroidism is diagnosed, but if it is too low, hypothyroidism is diagnosed.
What is thyroid-stimulating hormone responsible for?
Important. In fact, thyroid-stimulating hormone plays the role of a regulator of thyroid hormones (triiodothyronine and thyroxine) in the body. And they are responsible for the production of protein, the functioning of the nervous system, the normal functioning of vision and hearing, the functioning of the intestines and cardiovascular system, the menstrual cycle, as well as the growth and development of the entire body as a whole.
With the participation of thyroid-stimulating hormone, iodine is delivered to the cells of the thyroid gland, which prevents its growth, it ensures the acceleration of the synthesis of proteins, phospholipids and nucleic acids.
For the body, maintaining a stable amount of TSH in the blood is extremely important. With a lack of thyroid-stimulating hormone, hypothyroidism develops, which provokes a number of disorders and malfunctions in the body.
Too much TSH in the blood causes hyperthyroidism, the functions of many organs and systems are disrupted, and the thyroid gland enlarges. This condition is known as goiter.
Hormone norm and its deviations
The level of thyroid-stimulating hormone in the blood of an adult is not constant. Its highest rates are recorded at night and early in the morning from 2 to 4 o'clock. It will be at its lowest within 2 hours from 18-00.
In addition, its level differs depending on the age of the person. Thus, in newborns, TSH is within the range of 1.1–17.0 mU/l - this is the highest level in a lifetime. Subsequently, it gradually decreases until by the age of 14 (puberty) it reaches levels in the range of 0.4–4.0 mU/l.
So, by 1 year it will drop to 0.6–10.0 mU/l, and by 5 years it will drop to 0.4–6.0 mU/l.
Already in adolescence (puberty), the TSH level fluctuates between 0.4–6.0 mU/l.
Table of TSH norms in women by age. Standards may vary among laboratories depending on the equipment used and other factors. Therefore, a specialist should decipher the analyzes.
What are TSH antibodies?
The thyroid gland contains special substances - thyroid-stimulating hormone receptors. Their tasks include the synthesis of the hormones T3 and T4. This is what they do in response to the action of thyrotropin.
When there is too much TSH, the endocrine system malfunctions, and the level of antibodies that they produce in response to TSH increases.
By binding to receptors, antibodies block the functioning of the thyroid gland and disrupt the hormonal balance of the body. The level of antibodies, in turn, allows us to judge whether the thyroid hormone is secreted above normal.
Need to know! Antibodies are able to penetrate the placenta and affect the fetus. Therefore, it is very important to carry out a TSH test for pregnant women.
There are 3 types of antibodies:
- Type 1 antibodies bind to receptors for a short time, imitating the work of TSH and blocking it. There is a short, but in large quantities, release of T3 and T4 into the body.
- Type 2 is characterized by long-term binding of receptors, in which the TSH function is replaced. Here, the increase in triiodothyronine and thyroxine levels will be long-term and persistent.
- Type 3 is characterized by blocking the stimulation of the thyroid gland. The result of this is her immunity to thyroid-stimulating hormone. Poisoning of the body with hormones T3 and T4 (thyrotoxicosis) develops. A high level of these antibodies indicates the development of diffuse toxic goiter (Graves' disease).
Causes of pathological TSH levels
A decrease or, conversely, an increase in the amount of thyroid-stimulating hormone leads to disruption of the thyroid gland, and through it a number of general problems. It is very difficult to detect symptoms indicating an abnormal TSH. But you can do a hormone test that will help the doctor figure out the problem.
The most common causes of abnormal thyroid-stimulating hormone are:
- pituitary tumors;
- infections of the pituitary gland or brain;
- inflammatory processes in the thyroid gland;
- general poisoning of the body with heavy metals;
- insufficient production of hormones by the adrenal glands;
- resection (removal) of the gallbladder;
- therapy with a number of drugs (neuroleptics, iodine-containing, anticonvulsants, adrenergic blockers, etc.);
- psychosomatic pathologies.
Scientists believe that deviation from the norm can be caused by a number of social and everyday problems:
- too intense physical activity (intense training);
- fasting (frequent diets for weight loss);
- a state of constant stress.
But most often, the second group of factors provokes a short-term change in the amount of thyrotropin in the blood.
Important: the normal range of TSH levels is very wide. It takes into account one-time surges in TSH, which occur frequently and are not deviations from the norm. Only a doctor can say exactly how much your individual indicators correspond to the norm.
Specific symptoms of hormone imbalance
Signs that thyrotropin is increased or decreased may include symptoms from target organs (those affected by T3 and T4).
Thus, the first to appear is an enlarged thyroid gland, bulging eyes, possible cardiac disorders (arrhythmia, tachycardia), an increase or a sharp decrease in blood pressure. You should contact an endocrinologist if the following manifestations are observed:
- constant fatigue, lethargy;
- frequent and causeless increase in body temperature, feeling of cold;
- there was a sharp increase in weight;
- decreased sexual desire;
- the timbre of the voice has changed;
- unusual behavioral changes appeared (irritability or apathy, lethargy, depression);
- the skin has become dry;
- hair is too dry or falling out;
- memory has deteriorated;
- bowel problems (frequent constipation or diarrhea);
- Speech became sluggish and sluggish.
Advice: if similar symptoms are detected, you should contact an endocrinologist. He will conduct an examination and prescribe the necessary tests, including a TSH test.
Thyroid-stimulating hormone in men
When TSH levels are violated, men often experience cardiovascular problems: abnormal blood pressure levels, ischemia. An important indicator will be an increase in the thyroid gland. Signs include decreased libido, depression, and changes in voice timbre.
It is also important for men to check their thyroid-stimulating hormone levels after age 50. Its decrease threatens the formation of atherosclerotic plaques in the bloodstream.
TSH in women
In women, the normal level of thyroid-stimulating hormone is stable functioning of the heart and blood vessels, a balanced emotional and mental state, normal functioning of the thyroid gland and stable functioning of the reproductive system.
Changes in hormonal levels are very important during pregnancy. In addition, the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone must be monitored during menopause.
Important. Scientists agree that after 50 years of age, TSH should be monitored regularly. During this period, hyperthyroidism occurs in every 5th woman.
Why should TSH be monitored in pregnant women?
The normal level of thyroid-stimulating hormone during pregnancy can be found in this table:
During the period of bearing a baby, it is important that the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone does not exceed the norm. This is especially dangerous in the first trimester of pregnancy, when the formation of the main organs and systems of the little person occurs.
If it turns out that the TSH level is high, then the pregnant woman is prescribed a course of hormonal therapy (usually tablets with synthetic thyroxine). They effectively reduce the amount of TSH in the blood.
Fact In every 4th woman at the beginning of pregnancy, the level of thyrotropin drops to 0.01 mU/l or is not detected at all. And this definitely happens if twins or triplets are expected.
Low TSH levels during this period are not dangerous.
Why is TSH level important for babies?
The very high level of thyroid-stimulating hormone in infants drops quickly and already at school age is not much different from the norm for adults (see table above). However, hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism is dangerous for a little person; during this period, rapid growth and development of all systems of his body occurs.
Primary hyperthyroidism causes increased irritability in the baby, refusal to eat, infants often cry, they develop hypertension, tachycardia, bulging eyes, and a goiter appears.
Hypothyroidism in infants causes delayed physical and mental development, neurological disorders (weak muscle tone, poor appetite).
Important. When conducting tests for thyroid-stimulating hormone, not only its level in the blood is important, but also the stability of the indicators. Excessive fluctuations within the normal range may be a sign of thyroid dysfunction.
How to get tested for TSH
To take tests for thyroid-stimulating hormone, you do not need to take into account the phase of the menstrual cycle. But it is better to take it from 8 to 11 am. If problems with the thyroid gland are detected, the analysis is repeated at least once every 24 months. The study is always carried out at the same time of year.
As preliminary preparation for the test, you should:
- Eliminate all stress factors 36 hours before the test: smoking, alcohol, physical and psychological stress.
- After consulting with your doctor in advance, do not take medications, especially vitamin complexes, hormonal medications, or medications containing iodine.
- The last meal should be 12 hours before blood sampling. In the morning you can drink only 200 ml of clean water.
Blood sampling for thyroid-stimulating hormone analysis is carried out from a vein. Subsequently, blood serum is separated for analysis.
What treatment will help normalize hormone levels?
Hormonal disorders respond well to treatment with the help of synthetic drugs - substitutes for natural hormones. The selection of the drug and treatment regimen should be carried out by an endocrinologist after a comprehensive examination.
If a goiter or pituitary tumor is detected, surgical treatment may be required.
The normal functioning of the endocrine system directly depends on the level of thyrotropin (TSH - thyroid stimulating hormone), which is produced in the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland. It is responsible for the regulation of the thyroid gland, the secretion of thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which ensure metabolic processes, the synthesis of proteins, vitamins, growth, and development. If TSH is elevated, this indicates problems in the body that cannot be ignored.
Causes of abnormal hormone values
TSH levels depend on age: newborns have high levels, which change as they grow and mature. Throughout the day, the concentration of the hormone in the blood fluctuates slightly, increasing at night. Physical activity, nervous tension, and medications also affect TSH values. A single jump is not yet an indicator of pathological changes, but for a long time, elevated TSH is observed in such conditions as:
- diseases of the thyroid gland, consequences of its removal;
- deficiency or critical excess of iodine in the body;
- previous resection of the gallbladder;
- severe forms of gestosis in the II–III trimesters of pregnancy;
- acute and chronic pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract, cardiovascular, respiratory, urinary systems;
- lead poisoning;
- neoplasms in the tissues of the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, lungs, mammary glands;
- dysfunction of the adrenal glands.
Significant risk factors for the development of disorders are autoimmune diseases, heredity, constant stress, excessive physical activity, and strict long-term diets.
Danger of the condition, possible complications
An elevated level of TSH – hypothyroidism – initially does not cause pronounced symptoms, so it is difficult to diagnose disorders at an early stage. Abnormalities in the functioning of the thyroid gland can be detected by a blood test and ultrasound examination, which is preferably carried out once a year for preventive purposes. Without adequate treatment, the risk of developing pathologies such as:
- disruption of the central nervous system;
- retardation in growth, intellectual and physical development in children;
- decreased level of immune defense, susceptibility to infectious and viral diseases;
- sexual function disorders, dysmenorrhea;
- inability to conceive and bear a child;
- sudden weight gain over a short period or, conversely, excessive weight loss;
- hypothyroid coma in elderly people, developing against the background of concomitant diseases in the absence of proper care.
The normal functioning of all organs and systems is the key to the health of the female body. One of the key roles in this process is the functioning of the endocrine system, the largest and most significant component of which is the thyroid gland. Its work is regulated by the pituitary gland, which, in turn, is responsible for the production of hormones - TG (thyroglobulin) and TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone).
As long as these substances are contained in a woman’s blood in normal quantities, there is no need to fear any ailments or serious health problems. But sometimes their levels - especially the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone - begin to rise, which can lead to serious complications. That is why it is necessary to know about the causes and consequences of elevated TSH in women, to be able to recognize this deviation and respond to its signs in a timely manner.
Functions of TSH in a woman’s body
First of all, let's figure out what TSH affects in women. This hormone is very important for the coordinated functioning of the entire endocrine system, since it is responsible for:
- production of thyroid hormones T3 and T4 in the required quantities;
- lipid, carbohydrate, protein synthesis;
- full functioning of the cardiovascular system;
- the functioning of the woman’s reproductive system (in particular, the production of sex hormones);
- stimulation of psychosomatic reactions.
Note. The generally accepted indicators of the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone in the blood today are only relative values. Scientists have not yet reached a unanimous decision on what the exact amount of this substance should be. This is explained by the fact that the concentration of TSH in the human body can change throughout the day, and it is also influenced by a number of other factors.
Reasons for increased TSH in women
If TSH is elevated in women, what does this mean? Not in all cases, a high level of this hormone indicates the development of pathologies of the thyroid gland or the endocrine system as a whole. So, in women who have been taking hormonal contraceptives for a long period of time, the level of all hormones in the body will be slightly increased, and this is absolutely normal. As soon as OCs are discontinued, the concentration of TSH and other hormonal compounds will gradually return to normal.
Before studying the causes of high thyroid-stimulating hormone in women, it is necessary to understand the question: is hypothyroidism a pathology in which TSH is increased or decreased? Concepts such as hypo- and hyperthyroidism are not easy to understand, especially for women who heard these terms for the first time. Under such conditions, not only thyrotropin itself is taken into account, but also other iodine-containing hormones produced by the thyroid gland.
In fact, the word “hypo” means “less, lower,” however, if TSH is increased against the background of a decrease in the concentration of T3 and T4 (and this is what happens most often), the answer to the question of whether TSH is increased or decreased in hypothyroidism is simple: the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone will be higher than normal, and triiodothyronine and thyroxine will be significantly lower.
Causes of hyperthyroidism
So, why does TSH increase in women? There are 2 main reasons:
- Thyroid diseases. In particular, diffuse toxic goiter, which is an inflammatory process occurring in the tissues of one or both lobes of the thyroid gland. At the same time, the production of other thyroid hormones – thyroxine and triiodothyronine – is inhibited. For this reason, if the question arises, what does it mean if TSH is increased and T4 is decreased, this may indicate the development of thyroid disease, or another pathology of the thyroid gland.
- Disturbances in the functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary system. As a result, control of thyroid-stimulating hormone production becomes problematic. Such anomalies occur due to the development of oncological or inflammatory processes in the HPA. If such deviations are ignored for a long time, the consequences will be extremely dangerous and serious.
In addition, high TSH levels in women may be due to:
- obesity;
- previous surgical interventions (in particular, cholecystectomy);
- completed a course of treatment for thyroid pathologies using radioactive iodine;
- the presence of cardiovascular pathologies.
Treatment is prescribed by an endocrinologist depending on the causes of elevated TSH in women. The main task is to bring the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone back to normal, eliminating (if possible) the pathology that led to hyperthyroidism.
Symptoms and treatment of hyperthyroidism
Elevated TSH hormone in women manifests itself:
- feeling tired;
- rapid fatigue;
- dryness, peeling and irritation of the epidermis;
- deterioration of joint functions;
- constant drowsiness, even after a full night's rest;
- the formation of edema in the arms and legs;
- development of iron deficiency anemia;
- frequent mood swings;
- causeless irritation, short temper;
- depression;
- apathy towards the outside world;
- inhibition of thought processes;
- decreased concentration;
- memory impairment;
- sudden weight gain;
- stool disorders (more often constipation);
- nausea;
- decrease in body temperature.
All of the above-described symptoms of elevated TSH in women can manifest themselves both in combination and individually. But in any case, they should not be ignored, as this can lead to very serious and unfavorable consequences.
Principles of treatment
How to lower TSH in women, what measures need to be taken for this, and is it possible to get rid of the ailment on your own? First of all, it is necessary to establish the reasons for the deviation and direct all efforts to eliminate them.
Thus, drug treatment for elevated TSH in women can be prescribed exclusively by an endocrinologist (or another specialist, if the problem does not lie in diseases of the thyroid gland). If a diagnosis of hypothyroidism has been made, it is advisable to use synthetic analogues of hormones produced by the thyroid gland. The drugs “Euthirox” and “L-thyroxine” are quite effective. Their use has a particularly beneficial effect on the body of women during menopause.
A very responsible and important point in the treatment of hypothyroidism with medications is dosage calculation. Since it is almost impossible to do this yourself, it is better to entrust this issue to a qualified specialist. An overdose of hormonal drugs can lead to serious disruptions in the functioning of the body!
Diet for high TSH in women
During the course of treatment, nutrition plays a huge role in treating elevated TSH in women. If you do not adhere to a diet, it will be difficult to lower the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone even with systematic medication use. In addition, if the cause of hypothyroidism is not associated with any pathologies, only a correct, balanced menu will help quickly bring the level of thyroid hormones in order.
Thus, following a diet with elevated TSH in women requires mandatory inclusion in the diet:
- Fatty fish. They will provide the woman’s body with Omega-3 acids, which are responsible for the full functioning of the reproductive system, as well as for the normal hormonal balance in the body. But you shouldn’t eat fatty fish every day - it’s enough to eat it 1-2 times a week.
- Coconut oil, which helps maintain normal metabolism in the body.
- Algae, which is a generous source of iodine.
- Goat milk yogurt.
- Sauerkraut.
- Sprouted flaxseeds.
- Cereals that are enriched with fiber necessary to maintain normal metabolic processes.
- Bone broth (beef or chicken).
- Vegetables and fruits.
In this case, you should avoid using:
- broccoli;
- cauliflower and fresh white cabbage;
- turnips;
- radishes;
- red cabbage;
- untreated tap water;
- products containing gluten;
- dairy products;
- sugar in large quantities, etc.
Possible consequences
If hyperthyroidism is left untreated, it can have disastrous consequences. Among the most common complications of this pathological condition are:
- disturbance of heart rhythm and heart function in general;
- disorders in the functioning of the nervous system, the consequences of which are neuroses, psychological and mental disorders;
- decreased functioning of a woman’s reproductive system (in particular, ovulation slows down significantly, disruptions occur in the menstrual cycle, secondary infertility develops, the risk of developing non-infectious diseases of the genital tract increases, etc.);
- the occurrence of ophthalmological problems.
What can we say about what consequences it can have for the skin. The epidermis becomes too vulnerable to even minor external irritants, and the risk of developing dermatological pathologies (fungal, bacterial, inflammatory) increases.
To avoid such unpleasant consequences, alarming symptoms cannot be ignored. The sooner a woman seeks help from a doctor, the more favorable the prognosis for her full recovery will be!
Content
The functions of the thyroid gland in the body are regulated by thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH, thyrotropin), secreted by the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland, which regulates metabolic processes. If it is high, this means that the development of serious diseases is possible.
Hormonal disorders pose a health risk.
High levels of thyrotropin require treatment. It is important to know how much these values exceed the established standards. The level of hormones in the blood changes throughout the day. The minimum value is observed at 17-18 hours. There are standards for men depending on age:
Hormonal levels are often high in women, which is associated with the physiological characteristics of the body. The following standard has been established for different periods of life:
What does elevated TSH mean?
If thyrotropin has upward deviations, this indicates the presence of pathological conditions. When a patient's TSH is higher than normal, the following may be detected:
- iodine deficiency;
- mental disorders;
- reaction to medications;
- pituitary tumor;
- dysfunction of the central nervous system;
- toxicosis;
- hypothyroidism;
- thyroiditis;
- poisoning
The patient's thyrotropin may be elevated in the presence of the following provoking factors:
- genetic predisposition;
- inflammatory processes of the thyroid gland;
- performing hemodialysis procedures;
- presence of heavy physical activity;
- carrying out radioactive iodine therapy;
- removal of the gallbladder.
Among women
If tests show high TSH, a woman may complain of unpleasant symptoms. You should consult a doctor to adjust its level if you experience:
- weight gain;
- increased sweating;
- sleep disorder;
- trembling in the limbs;
- dyspnea;
- anemia;
- apathy;
- depression;
- fatigue;
- decreased performance;
- anxiety;
- thickening of the neck.
A woman's thyrotropin level may be elevated as a result of pathological conditions. The reasons are often:
- tumors of the breast, lungs;
- pregnancy complications;
- removal of the thyroid gland;
- mental disorders;
- neoplasms of the pituitary gland;
- adrenal dysfunction;
- severe form of gestosis;
- uncontrolled hormone production;
- thyroid diseases.
The danger of elevated TSH hormone
If thyrotropin is elevated, the patient may experience serious disturbances in the functioning of the body. It is important to start timely treatment. It is possible that the following signs may appear:
- deterioration of emotional state;
- disorders of the cardiovascular system;
- indigestion;
- decreased appetite;
- blood pressure surges;
- brittle nails;
- hair loss;
- swelling of the body;
- anemia.
Loading...
