At home thyroid tests

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Consumers are becoming more tech- savvy and are taking their health into their own hands.

Home test kits are often cheaper than in-office visits and can help uncover health concerns. You can easily send the results to your healthcare professional.

The thyroid gland is located at the base of your neck. It’s part of the endocrine system and is responsible for regulating hormones throughout your body to help you sleep, give you energy, and help you stay warm.

The hormones it produces are triiodothyronine and thyroxine. Your metabolism is regulated by the release of hormones.

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid doesn’t make enough T4, T3, or both. It’s the most common thyroid condition, affecting 5% of the population worldwide, with another 5% who have the condition but haven’t been diagnosed.

In hyperthyroidism, the opposite occurs. The thyroid becomes too active and makes too much of the thyroid hormones.

If you like the look of the home test kits, you may find one that you like.

If you are interested in learning about what thyroid tests are available, read on.

Anyone can get their hormones checked. Some populations are at higher risk for thyroid disorders.

  • People with a uterus.
  • People with autoimmune disorders.
  • People have a history of disorders of the thyroid.
  • People who smoke.
  • People have a family history of disorders of the thyroid.

You may want to undergo testing if you’re showing any symptoms of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.

Symptoms of hypo- and hyperthyroidism

Hypothyroidism

  • It could be feeling tired or having little energy.
  • It feels cold.
  • gaining weight
  • Dry, flaky skin.
  • brittle hair and nails
  • Depression.
  • It is a problem of the colon.

Hyperthyroidism

  • It feels hot or sweaty.
  • irregular heart rate
  • weight loss
  • bowel movements are frequent.
  • Hand movements.
  • Weakness in the muscles.
  • fertility concerns
  • fatigue and difficulty sleeping
  • nervousness
  • “Is it possible that I’m Irrisponsible?”

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, consider getting your thyroid levels checked. If left untreated, hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause health concerns.

Hypothyroidism may increase your risk of:

  • Fetal issues
  • An enlarged body part.
  • There are heart issues.
  • fertility concerns
  • There are problems with the kidneys.
  • nervous system issues, including Weakness in the muscles. and nerve injury

Hyperthyroidism may increase your risk.

Since you can have no symptoms of the thyroid problem, you can still get tested for it.

We looked for companies that offered the most benefits.

We used the criteria that we were told to use.

  • Cost: We chose tests that are reasonably priced.
  • Type of test: All tests measure thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Some options also measure additional biomarkers, including T3, T4, and antibodies.
  • Privacy: To protect your privacy, the companies on this list offer confidentiality and discreet packaging.
  • Online reviews: We read online reviews to look for positive mentions of clients’ experiences and the test’s reliability.
  • Reliable follow-up results: We looked for companies that provide interpretation, consultations, and medical guidance so you can easily understand your results.

A note about at-home test results

The at-home test kits recommended below have gone through our vetting process and have passed. In general, however, at-home test kits are not a reliable substitute for visiting your primary healthcare professional.

“At- home tests don’t consider personal or family history. They may not test for features that a healthcare professional would know to look for. The tests listed below are recommended to be used with a healthcare professional to make sure you get the best possible care.”

An important note: You shouldn’t change your medication based on what the at-home test kit results provide to you. Always consult your doctor before making changes to your medication. For any abnormal results, make sure the tests are confirmed at a lab and with supervision and guidance from your healthcare professional.

Best for follow-up on results

LetsGetChecked

LetsGetChecked offers two options: the thyroid test and the thyroid antibody test.

The thyroid test checks thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), T4, and T3. If your results come back outside of the normal range (either high or low), you have the option of a free consultation by phone with a nurse to discuss your next steps. With your lab report, you’ll also receive information on how to understand your results.

After you request a test kit, you will receive a box in the mail that contains everything you need for testing. You can take a finger test in the morning and send it back in the bag provided the same day. You will receive results in 2 to 5 days.

Best for: follow-up on results

Price: $99–$119, depending on which test you choose

Coverage: LetsGetChecked doesn’t take insurance, but they do accept flexible savings account (FSA) and health savings account (HSA) cards.

Learn more about LetsGetChecked here.

Use code HEALTHLINE25 for 25% off.

SHOP NOW AT LETSGETCHECKED

Pros

  • Nurse consultation to discuss test results.
  • confidential packaging
  • The College of American Pathologists accredited labs as Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments.

Cons

  • Shipping may not be available in some countries.
  • There are some concerns with data privacy and timeliness.
  • No health assessments are offered.

Best membership

Everlywell

Everlywell is a relatively new company that provides a range of testing options, including thyroid kits. These thyroid tests evaluate TSH, TPO antibody, T3, and T4.

You will get a significant discount on testing options if you become a member. You will collect your sample with a finger and return the kit for testing. There are videos on their website that will show you how to collect and return a sample.

Results are returned in 5 days. It may take up to 8 days.

Best for: membership

Price: $99 (without a membership) or $24.99 (with a membership)

Coverage: Everlywell isn’t covered by insurance, but you can use your HSA or FSA account to pay for testing.

SHOP NOW AT EVERLYWELL

Pros

  • There are more frequent testing membership options.
  • A high-quality lab.
  • accepts payments for health insurance.

Cons

  • The test kits are more expensive.
  • less comprehensive than other tests
  • Not available to New Yorkers.

Best for specialized care

Paloma Health

Paloma Health is a telemedicine company with healthcare professionals who specialize in thyroid disorders. The company only does thyroid testing. Their main goal is to be a one-stop shop for all aspects of thyroid health.

“Paloma stands out from their competitors with a moreholistic approach to care. They offer a variety of services, including health coaching and a doctor assigned to you throughout all your testing. This whole-body approach offers more than just the usual testing. Their additional tests can detect Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.”

You can have the levels of T4 and T3 tested, but the panel also includes anti-TPO and free T3 levels.

You are given a lancet to take a finger test. The sample will be sent back to the lab. For a separate fee, healthcare professionals can provide information about your results, as well as a treatment plan. The results are returned in 7 days.

Best for: specialized care

Price: $99 for the thyroid test kit, additional costs for medications, and coaching and treatment plans

Coverage: Consultations are covered by insurance. If Paloma isn’t in-network, you can submit for reimbursement. Check with your insurance company to find out if they will cover at-home test kits.

SHOP NOW AT PALOMA HEALTH

Pros

  • fully focused on managing the disease
  • Telemedicine services are remote.
  • Before you sign up, you can get a free consultation.

Cons

  • Slow test shipping and processing can be a problem.
  • Not available in all states.
  • Each service is priced differently.

At-home thyroid test Price Coverage Results
LetsGetChecked $99–$119 no insurance but accepts HSA/FSA 2–3 days
Everlywell $99 (no membership)
$24.99 (with membership)		 no insurance but accepts HSA/FSA 5–8 days
Paloma Health $99 check with your insurance on coverage 7 days

The following are some things to consider when choosing which at- home test is best for you.

  • Type of test: Decide if you want a test that measures only TSH or additional biomarkers such as T3, T4, TSI, and TPO antibodies.
  • Price: Find out what the price includes and if the company accepts HSA, FSA, or insurance.
  • Test results: Check to see how much interpretation, guidance, or medical support the company offers. See if there is an additional cost for consultations, personalized advice, or treatment recommendations.
  • Privacy: Check out the privacy policy of each company. Find out if they provide confidentiality and discreet packaging.
  • Reviews: Read online reviews to get a sense of the company’s reputation and the test’s reliability, benefits, and downsides. You can also get a feel for the company’s reputation.

What to consider when searching for an at-home thyroid test

What is most important for you is what you will find in an at- home thyroid test. T4 and TSH levels are measured. You may need to do more tests to measure levels. Find out what types of testing and treatment recommendations each company has.

If you have symptoms that make you suspect a thyroid disorder, at- home tests can be used. You may want to test your thyroid levels after you start a treatment plan, or after you implement lifestyle changes. If you are at risk of developing a thyroid disorder, you should do a home test.

There are many advantages and drawbacks to consider when choosing a home thyroid test.

Pros

  • It is more convenient and affordable to do testing in-office.
  • If performed correctly, it would be fairly reliable and accurate.
  • Results may include a consultation, health assessment, and interpretation.

Cons

  • It may be difficult to interpret the results.
  • More room for human error can reduce accuracy.
  • “A doctor’s visit is required for diagnosis and treatment.”

Blood samples are used to check the levels of the hormones. If there are any concerns, more testing can be done.

If your levels are too high, you may also need an iodine uptake and scan to view how much your thyroid absorbs. You may need to go on daily medication to regulate your levels.

Kits may show your results in different ways, use different units of measurement, and provide different levels of information that help you understand them. You can get another type of medical guidance or have a consultation.

It is always a good idea to show your results to your doctor. They can provide more information and decide if additional testing is necessary. Your results may provide insight into your other health concerns.

Interpreting results

Most of the home test kits give interpretations of lab results. It is best to consult with your healthcare professional if they do not.

TSH levels depend on your age and sex, but they can fluctuate based on medications, diet, and pregnancy. The normal range is 0.45 to 4.5 milliunits per liter (mU/L).

Hypo/hyperthyroidism

A change in hormones can affect your health. Hypothyroidism can be caused by too high of a TSH level. Hyperthyroidism can be caused by too much T4 being produced by the thyroid glands.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), home test kits, in general, are a suitable way to receive quick and confidential lab results. They’re not a substitute for receiving regular care from a healthcare professional.

A diagnosis can only be received with a blood test, but for some people, more testing or clinical exams are needed.

Some endocrinologists, or doctors who specialize in hormone-related conditions like thyroid disorders, have concerns about the reliability of thyroid kits and the potential for misdiagnosis. But this is why it’s still important to inform your healthcare professional of any at-home test results.

If your test results are abnormal, you should contact a doctor. If your results are normal, you may want to see a doctor if you have any health concerns, have a family history of thyroid conditions, or have symptoms of a thyroid disorder.

You can see your doctor to discuss your test results. They can confirm the results of your home test, which may include a diagnosis of a thyroid condition. Your doctor can recommend treatments and additional tests.

If you have symptoms of hyperthyroidism, you should see a doctor.

  • Mood changes.
  • The energy level changes.
  • Body temperature changes.
  • The weight changes.
  • Irregular bowel habits.
  • There are fertility or menstruation concerns.
  • Cardiovascular concerns.
  • A thick neck.

How can I check my thyroid at home?

You can order an online test to check your thyroid at home. You should carefully read and follow the instructions that come with your kit, as they may specify the time of day to do the test.

Companies may provide online instructions. If you have questions or are unsure about the information, you should contact the company or healthcare professional.

Most tests require you to use a lancet to collect a blood sample. Drop the blood into a small tube or test strip and send it to the laboratory. You will usually get your results within a week.

How reliable are home thyroid tests?

If you perform the test correctly, home thyroid tests are usually reliable. CAP accreditation and CLIA certification are required for quality and accuracy.

Home tests for the thyroid are less reliable than tests done in a healthcare setting. They are not a substitute for routine exams.

How do you get a thyroid test without a doctor?

To get a test without a doctor, order a test online. After you receive your kit, you can collect a sample and send it to the lab. Most companies give you test results within a week.

You’ll still need to visit a doctor to analyze your results and receive a diagnosis. Don’t change your medication or treatment plan based on home test results.

Do I need to fast before a thyroid test?

It is not necessary to fast before a test. If you are taking additional blood tests at the same time, you may need to fast for up to 10 hours.

If you have any concerns about your thyroid, you should address them with the help of a test kit.

Home testing companies have different prices and services. It is a good idea to research each company for more information on their services, healthcare professionals and accreditations. This can help you decide if at- home tests are right for you.

Risa Kerslake is a registered nurse, freelance writer, and mom of two from the Midwest. She specializes in topics related to women’s health, mental health, oncology, postpartum, and fertility. She enjoys collecting coffee mugs, crocheting, and attempting to write her memoir. Read more about her work at her website.