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Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Test: About Your Child's Test

Location of thyroid gland in neck, with detail of thyroid gland

What is it?

A thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) test is one of several blood tests used to check for thyroid gland problems. TSH causes the thyroid gland to make other important hormones that help control your child's metabolism.

Why is this test done?

This test is done to:

Find out if the thyroid gland is working as it should.
Find out if a problem with the thyroid is causing symptoms such as growth problems, tiredness, weight gain, or weight loss.
Keep track of how well thyroid treatment is working.
Test a newborn to find out if his or her thyroid gland is working as it should.

How do you prepare for the test?

Talk to the doctor about all of your child's health conditions before the test. For example, tell the doctor about all medicines your child takes. If your child takes thyroid medicines, tell the doctor when your child took the last dose. Your child may need to stop taking thyroid medicines for a short time before having these tests. Extreme stress and illness can also affect thyroid test results.

How is the test done?

Blood test

A health professional uses a needle to take a blood sample, usually from the arm.

Heel stick

A heel stick is used to get a blood sample from a baby. The baby's heel is poked, and several drops of blood are collected. Your baby may have a tiny bruise where the heel was poked.

How long does the test take?

The test will take a few minutes.

What happens after the test?

Your child will probably be able to go home right away.
Your child can go back to usual activities right away.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if your child is having problems. Ask your doctor when you can expect to have your child's test results.

Where can you learn more?

Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

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