Thyroid Testing In Ottawa

If you suffer from fatigue, depression, infertility, weight gain or loss, changes in hair, skin or nails, and memory loss, you may have a thyroid imbalance.

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland that is in front of your windpipe, just below your voice box that produces hormones to regulate metabolism and body temperature. The thyroid gland produces the hormones T4 and T3 in response to stimulation by thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which is produced in the pituitary gland. The thyroid requires iodine and L-tyrosine to synthesize T3 and T4.

Thyroid disorders can range from goiter (enlarged gland) to life-threatening cancer. The most common thyroid problems involve abnormal production of thyroid hormone. Insufficient thyroid hormone results in a condition known as hypothyroidism and may be caused by an autoimmune condition known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Excess thyroid hormone production which occurs less commonly is hyperthyroidism and is most often caused by an autoimmune condition known as Grave’s Disease. Subclinical low or high thyroid function diagnosis is often overlooked and mistaken for normal aging.^1-4 This is partly due to the similarity of the symptoms, the screening of TSH in testing only and assessment of thyroid markers in the normal vs optimal range by traditional medical doctors. Hypothyroid and Hyperthyroid concerns impact many aspects of health

Fortunately, a simple thyroid panel blood test for TSH, T3, and T4 can assess thyroid imbalances and direct a plan to regain wellness.

1. Highlight: Thyroid Blood Test
2. Your Key Symptoms: Fatigue or Hyper-energy, Cold or Hot Body Temperature, Weight Gain or Loss, Pressure in Neck
3. Why Test? To screen your thyroid health due to its impact on overall wellness.
4. Results Available: Generally, in 1 week once the lab has received your sample.

What are tests available for thyroid health available at Revivelife Clinic?

Revivelife practitioners have researched the thyroid testing available and believe that a detailed thyroid panel along with a detailed history is included for anyone with thyroid concerns due to the high risk of missing subclinical thyroid imbalances.

• Thyroid 1 – Basal Body Temperature (BBT)

  • The Basal Body Temperature (BBT) is a simple at-home test that evaluates your BBT. Your BBT is a well-documented marker of thyroid health.

• Thyroid 2 – Thyroid Panel Blood Test

  • The Thyroid Panel includes TSH, fT3, and fT4 for a detailed evaluation of thyroid health.

• Thyroid 3 – Thyroid Autoimmune Panel Blood Test 

  • The Thyroid Autoimmune Panel includes TSH, fT3, fT4 and the autoimmune thyroid markers thyroglobulin antibody (ATA) and thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPO) for a comprehensive evaluation of thyroid health.

• rT3 – Add On

  • These test measures reverse T3, an inactive form of T3. It is believed that the body produces rT3 in times of severe illness or starvation as a mechanism of preserving energy.

• Iodine & Halide Test – 24 Hr. Urine

  • This test measures iodine in the body for thyroid health and the toxic halides – bromide and fluoride that compete with iodine for absorption.

Is This Test Right for Me? 

Consider assessing the root cause of your thyroid concerns and test if you experience any of the following concerns which researchers have found to be linked to thyroid imbalance.

Hypothyroidism

1. Cardiovascular Disease – those with subclinical hypothyroidism maybe 3.4 times more likely to develop cardiovascular disease than those with healthy thyroid function

1. • Slower Heartrate
   • Increased Blood Pressure
   • Increased Cholesterol – LDL & apolipoprotein B
   • Increased C-reactive protein (Inflammatory Marker)
   • Increased Homocysteine¹¹
   • Increased Stiffening of the Blood Vessels – in those with autoimmune reactions

2. Cognitive Decline
3. Constipation – which increases the risk of intestinal obstruction or abnormal enlargement of the colon
4. Depression
5. Dry skin and hair (and/or hair loss)
6. Enlarged Thyroid Gland (Goitre)
7. Fatigue
8. Infertility
9. Hoarse voice
10. Menstrual Irregularities
11. Metabolic Syndrome
12. Muscle cramps
13. Pain, Stiffness or Swelling in Joints
14. Panic Disorders
15. Sensitivity to cold
16. SIBO
17. Unexplained weight gain

If left untreated, hypothyroidism can lead to goiter, peripheral neuropathy, infertility, myxedema, cardiovascular disease, and dementia.

Hyperthyroidism

Cardiovascular disease – arrhythmia in particular³ (subclinical hyperthyroid)

1. Anxiety
2. Bone Health
3. Changes in Bowel Movements i.e. More Frequent
4. Elevated Blood Sugar
5. Skin Thinning
6. Fine, Brittle Hair
7. Heat Intolerance
8. Fatigue
9. Goitre (swelling of the thyroid gland)
10. Muscle Weakness & Tremors
11. Sudden weight loss
12. Rapid heartbeat
13. Sweating
14. Irregular Menses in Women

Extreme hyperthyroidism can cause elevated heart rate and blood pressure, extreme exhaustion, eye problems, red swollen skin, and high fever. This condition increases the risk of stroke and heart attack.

How are thyroid imbalances treated?

Your Revivelife clinician will review all findings and create a tailored plan to you based on what are the root causes of your thyroid dysfunction. The thyroid gland is closely linked to adrenal and sex hormones and thus your tailored plan integrates an optimal balance of all glands and hormones associated. The use of tailored nutrients, herbs, stress management and or acupuncture that promote healing are often advised. Additional testing including health & hormone and or organic acid test may be considered to further investigate the potential causes of increased thyroid concerns.

We recommend a New Patient Visit for the most comprehensive approach to your health or a Pre-Lab Visit for a quick snapshot before lab testing and a Post-Lab consult to review your results and receive your tailored health plan.

Unsure what you need?

Book a complimentary discovery consultation with one of our health practitioners.

To Book, an Appointment Click Here or Call 613-829-7100

Many insurance plans cover Naturopathic and other integrative practitioner visits.  Check with your provider for the details and how to submit claims.

LEARN MORE – coming soon!

BASAL BODY TEMPERATURE TEST

The basal body temperature (BBT) test is a method to help assess your thyroid function as your body temperature is regulated by the thyroid hormones and can be done right in your own home!  It may be very reflective of thyroid function especially when combined with your health history. -53 Blood tests for thyroid measure the amount of thyroid hormones circulating but may not give a complete representation of how much active hormone (T3) actually is available to the cells. Ideally one would have a complete thyroid blood panel, their BBT and work with a health care practitioner to properly diagnosed.

THYROID TEST 2 – THYROID BLOOD TEST

This panel is used to evaluate overall thyroid function. Low thyroid function may result in fatigue, dry skin, and excessive weight gain.

This panel contains the following tests:

• Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH)– *Evaluates overall thyroid function
• Free Thyroxine (T4)– Measures the amount of T4 available to the cells and tissues. Most of the thyroxine (T4) in the blood is bound to a protein called thyroxine-binding globulin. Less than 1% of the T4 is free. Free thyroxine (fT4) affects tissue function in the body, but bound thyroxine does not.
• Free Tri-iodothyronine (T3)– Measures the amount of T3 (the active form of the hormone) available to the cells and tissues. Most of the T3 in the blood is attached to thyroxine-binding globulin. Less than 1% of the T3 is unattached. Free triiodothyronine (fT3) can be measured directly.

Revivelife targets the optimal level of TSH between 1.0 and 2.0 µIU/mL, to reduce the risk of thyroid related health concerns.²⁸

• TSH above 2.0 may be associated with adverse cardiovascular risk factors.²⁹
• TSH between 1.0 and 2.0 µIU/mL has been associated with the lowest subsequent incidence of abnormal thyroid function.³⁰

• TSH greater than 2.0: increased 20-year risk of hypothyroidism and increased risk of thyroid autoimmune disease²⁸
• TSH between 2.0 and 4.0: hypercholesterolemia and cholesterol levels decline in response to T4 therapy²⁸
• TSH greater than 4.0: greater risk of heart disease²⁸

THYROID TEST 3 – THYROID AUTOIMMUNE BLOOD TEST

The addition of the following autoimmune thyroid markers which are useful in the diagnosis of thyroid diseases, in particular Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (autoimmune Hypothyroidism) and Grave’s disease (autoimmune hyperthyroidism)

• Thyroglobulin antibody (ATA)– Often measured along with TPO, these antibodies can attack proteins involved in the production of thyroid hormones rendering them dysfunctional
• Thyroid Peroxidase antibody (TPO)– Often measured along with ATA, these antibodies can attack proteins involved in the production of thyroid hormones rendering them dysfunctional

REVERSE T3- ADD ON

Reverse T3 – Measures the non-functioning form of the active hormone T3. It is believed that the body produces rT3 in times of severe illness or starvation as a mechanism of preserving energy.

IODINE & HALIDE TEST – 24 HR. URINE

This test measures iodine in the body for thyroid health and the toxic halides – bromide and fluoride that compete with iodine for absorption. These goitrogenic halides (bromide and fluoride) are non-essential and excessive intake can accumulate in tissues, displace iodine and compromise the production of thyroid hormones and the integrity of the thyroid and mammary glands. Providing comprehensive assessment of iodine sufficiency and antagonistic halides in a single test, the Urine Halides test assesses iodine as well as exposure to and retention of bromide and fluoride. The test can be performed using conventional random or 24-hour urine collection or after administration of a loading dose of iodide/iodine.

Unsure what you need?

Book a complimentary discovery consultation with one of our health practitioners.

To Book, an Appointment Click Here or Call 613-829-7100

Many insurance plans cover Naturopathic and other integrative practitioner visits.  Check with your provider for the details and how to submit claims.

 

IODINE & HALIDES – SAMPLE REPORT

Unsure what you need?

Book a complimentary discovery consultation with one of our health practitioners.

To Book, an Appointment Click Here or Call 613-829-7100

Many insurance plans cover Naturopathic and other integrative practitioner visits.  Check with your provider for the details and how to submit claims.

What are the risks of developing thyroid dysfunction?

The principal risks of developing hypothyroid dysfunction include: 

• Genetic Link
• Autoimmune – Hashimoto’s (Hypothyroid function) or other autoimmune conditions
• Chronic Digestive Disorders
• Poor Diet – standard American diet, which is low in fibre and high in sugar and saturated fats
• Excess Alcohol
• Female
• Iodine Deficiency
• Hormone Imbalance
• Pregnancy
• Lack of Sleep
• Stress
• Aging
• Medication Use – antibiotics, lithium, NSAIDs, chemotherapy, radiation, radioactive iodine or anti-thyroid medications
• Thyroid Surgery (partial thyroidectomy)

The principal risks of developing hyperthyroid dysfunction include: 

• Genetic Link
• Autoimmune – Grave’s (Hyperthyroid function) or other autoimmune conditions
• Chronic Digestive Disorders
• Poor Diet – standard American diet, which is low in fibre and high in sugar and saturated fats
• Female
• Hormone Imbalance
• Hyperfunctioning Thyroid Nodules – toxic nodules/adenoma, toxic multinodular goiter or Plummer’s disease
• Pregnancy
• Lack of Sleep
• Stress
• Thyroiditis
• Medication Use

What is a goiter?

Goiter is the term for abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland. The gland can be generally enlarged or have multiple growths (nodules) leading to enlargement of the whole thyroid gland. A goiter can be associated with an underactive thyroid gland, an overactive thyroid gland, or a normal thyroid gland. A thyroid ultrasound is most often recommended to compliment blood testing panels.

How is this test different than the tests done at my medical doctor’s office?

Traditional medical doctors who provide testing under the provincially covered insurance (OHIP) typically screen for TSH only which may miss potential thyroid imbalances – especially those that are subclinical.

What are Conventional Medical Treatments for Thyroid Regulation?

• Hypothyroidism:
  • Thyroid hormone replacement therapy
  • Desiccated thyroid extract
• Hyperthyroidism:
  • Anti-thyroid drugs, such as methimazoleor propylthiouracil, to inhibit the production of T3
  • Radioactive iodine to destroy the overactive thyroid gland
  • Surgical removal of the thyroid
  • Βeta-blockers to control high blood pressure and increased heart rate

Unsure what you need?

Book a complimentary discovery consultation with one of our health practitioners.

To Book, an Appointment Click Here or Call 613-829-7100

Many insurance plans cover Naturopathic and other integrative practitioner visits.  Check with your provider for the details and how to submit claims.

BASAL BODY TEMPERATURE TEST

Step 1 – Patient Preparation

1.     Purchase a BBT /fertility or digital thermometer

Step 2- BBT Test

1. Using a BBT/fertility thermometer take your temperature under your arm (axillary) (by holding it there until for 10 minutes for a traditional mercury thermometer or once at 5 & 10 minutes and then averaging the value on a digital thermometer), first thing in the morning before rising, when the body is completely at rest.
2. For women with a period take it for 5 days – day 2-7 of your menses. For women without a period and men take it for 5 days at any time of the month.
3. For fertility in females track the complete month of your BBT, intercourse and cervical fluid.
4. Record the readings and note if there is anything unusual that may impact your BBT such as: a different thermometer, illness, medication, activity, stress, food consumption.
   • Normal Thyroid Function: 36.6˚C(97.8˚F) to 36.8˚C(98.2˚F)
   • Hypothyroid Function: <36.6˚C(97.8˚F)
   • Hyperthyroid Function: >36.8˚C(98.2˚F)

.Download your chart to track your basal body temperature Basal Body Temperature Chart

THYROID TEST 2 – THYROID BLOOD TEST

1. Obtain your requisition from your Revivelife pracititoner
2. Proceed to the nearest test centre as designated on your requisition. You can now pre-book an appointment the same day of testing by going to www.dynacare.ca.

THYROID TEST 3 – THYROID AUTOIMMUNE BLOOD TEST

1. Obtain your requisition from your Revivelife practitioner
2. Proceed to the nearest test centre as designated on your requisition. You can now prebook an appointment the same day of testing by going to www.dynacare.ca.

REVERSE T3 -ADD ON

·         Same as above for thyroid tests 2 and 3.

IODINE & HALIDE TEST

Step 1- Patient Preparation

1.  The Urine Halides/Iodine/Fluoride specimen takes 24 hours or less to collect depending on your physician’s instructions.
2. If performing a 24-hour collection, the urine container holds a maximum of 4 liters. For best results, do not consume more than 3.5 liters (15 cups) of liquid during the collection period to avoid overfilling the container.
3.  For 48 hours prior to and during the collection process you should avoid taking iodine supplements (other than the loading dose prescribed by your physician), non-essential medications and products that contain iodide/iodine such as kelp, fish, and sea vegetables unless otherwise instructed by your physician.
4. Female patients should not collect urine during a menstrual period. Never discontinue prescription medications without first consulting your physician.

Step 2- Iodine & Halide Test

1. Please follow the instructions provided in your test kit.
2. Iodine & Halides Patient Preparation & Directions

Step 3- Shipping

1. Next follow the directions to ship the test kit to the lab. Ship Monday – Wednesday for best results. Keep a record of the shipping number and email it to the clinic so that we can track your test results.

Note- Please refer to test kit and if any variation exists between the information here and your test kit, follow your test kit instructions. Additional information is provided in the test kits regarding preparation, collection and medications, circumstances, medical conditions, supplements, etc. that may affect the results of the test.

Unsure what you need?

Book a complimentary discovery consultation with one of our health practitioners.

To Book, an Appointment Click Here or Call 613-829-7100

Many insurance plans cover Naturopathic and other integrative practitioner visits.  Check with your provider for the details and how to submit claims.

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