Thyroid Screening

The thyroid, a butterfly-shaped organ lying at the front of the throat produces thyroid hormone, which helps regulate the body’s metabolism.  Too much thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism) can result in agitation, palpitations and weight loss.  Too little thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism) can result in sluggishness, dry skin, hair loss and weight gain.

According to the guidelines issued by the American Thyroid Association (ATA), everyone should be screened, at a minimum, for thyroid problems beginning at age 35, at five year intervals.  Those with symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, or a family history, should be checked even more frequently.

St. Peters Hospital offers a simple blood test measuring the levels of a pituitary hormone that helps regulate the thyroid, called TSH that can indicate thyroid dysfunction.  For more information please call St. Peter’s Wellness Center @ (406)-444-2128.

Cost

$20.00