Numerous factors need to be evaluated before one can be diagnosed with having thyroid disease. It can include clinical assessment and evaluation which is done by a proper health care professional. It also includes various blood tests, biopsies, imaging tests, and a heap of other examinations which can be a tad overwhelming for the sick individual.
It is important to remember that not all tests mentioned below will be performed on the sick individual. The tests recommended by the doctor are based on the symptoms and may rely mostly on the results of other examinations as well.
Clinical Assessment and Evaluation
The first and most basic tool used to test for thyroid disorders is the clinical assessment. If you feel any of the symptoms of the thyroid disorders, you have to be seen by a physician immediately and assessed of the problem. Here are the clinical tests done by the practitioner upon your visit to the clinic:
- neck palpation
- auscultation of the thyroid gland through the use of a stethoscope
- reflex testing
- vital signs checking
- height and weight measurement
- temperature measurement
- facial examination especially on the eyes
- observation on the quality or quantity of your hair
- skin examination
- nails and hands examination
- clinical signs review
Self Tests For Thyroid Disorders
Some self tests may be recommended by the physician so you can further evaluate your condition at home. These tests can be an integral part of the cure of the thyroid disorder. Examples of self-tests for thyroid malfunctions are the following:
- Diagnostechs Saliva Testing
- Self Test for some blood tests
- Thyroid neck check
- Bloodspot testing
- Biosafe’s Fingerstick
Although self tests may be helpful, they need to be evaluated further by the physician. One must still visit the doctor even after conducting the tests on their own. The cure, as well as the other therapies needed, should still be issued by the doctor.