Curated by Dr Rajkumar, Apollo Thyroid Assessment - Essential package consists of tests like TSH, T3, T4, vitamin D, thyroid peroxidase, thyroglobulin antibody, and CBC, which are essential to identify the levels of thyroid hormones in the body. These tests are recommended for people suffering from or with a family history of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. People experiencing unexplained weight gain or loss should also take this test.The thyroid assessment essential test is a diagnostic evaluation that checks if a person’s thyroid gland is functioning properly. The thyroid is a small endocrine gland located at the lower part of the neck. This gland plays a major role in regulating the development and metabolism of the human body.The gland releases certain hormones that enable the body to optimally utilise energy. Despite being small, the thyroid gland facilitates several biological processes inside the body. Therefore, it is crucial to keep the thyroid healthy to ensure overall well-being. You can also opt for the Apollo Thyroid Assessment-Essential test which includes 36 diagnostic evaluations to get a comprehensive picture of the health and functioning of your thyroid gland.The tests included in the Thyroid Assessment-Essential test areThyroid: The test uses a small sample of blood to assess the functioning of the thyroid gland. The diagnostic evaluation measures the levels of Thyroxine (T4, Total), Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), Free T4 (FT4), Free T3 (FT3), Anti Thyroglobulin Antibody, and Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies in the blood. It helps in diagnosing and monitoring the treatment of thyroid disorders.Blood studies (anaemia): The test assesses the levels of 28 types of blood components including Hemoglobin, PCV, RBC COUNT, MCV, MCH, MCHC, R.D.W*, Total Leucocyte Count (TLC), Differential Leucocytic Count (DLC), Absolute Leucocyte Count, etc. Vitamin D:  Also known as 25-hydroxy Vitamin D test, it is the most accurate way to assess the vitamin D levels in your body.Serum test: This test measures the level of triiodothyronine (T3), a hormone produced by the thyroid gland, in your blood. It is mostly recommended to diagnose hyperthyroidism, a condition in which the body makes too much thyroid hormone.The thyroid package test is generally recommended for those with a family history of hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. It is also for people with sudden or unexplained weight gain or loss.If the thyroid assessment-essential test comes positive for hyperthyroidism, the patient may experience the following symptoms:Irregular heartbeatUnexplained weight lossIrritability and mood swingsExcessive sweatingSevere fatigueExcessive hungerRestlessnessPuffy eyesInsomnia or difficulty in falling asleepIrregular menstruation in womenThe elderly may not experience any symptoms. In their case, only the thyroid package test can give an accurate diagnosis. Those with hypothyroidism will experience the following symptoms:FatigueSensitivity to coldUnexplained weight gainDry skinConstipationHair lossBrittle nailsSexual dysfunctionHigh cholesterolCertain conditions may lead to hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. For instance, the former is often caused due to Graves’ disease. This disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid gland. Hyperthyroidism is a serious condition, and if left untreated, it could lead to severe health complications such as blood clots in the heart, heart failure, stroke, double vision, or eye pain.Hypothyroidism is also caused due to an autoimmune disorder called Hashimoto’s disease. This condition is serious and often chronic or lifelong. If hypothyroidism is neglected, it could damage the peripheral nerves – a condition called peripheral neuropathy. This leads to numbness and tingling in the legs and arms. In women, untreated hypothyroidism may lead to infertility issues.You can easily book a thyroid assessment-essential test through Apollo 24|7 and get the test results within 36 hours. The test can be used to diagnose multiple conditions that occur due to an overactive or underactive thyroid gland, such as:Graves’ DiseaseThyroid NoduleThyroiditisHashimoto’s DiseaseGoitreThyroid CancerThis test can be taken as a routine screening once a year. Regular testing is especially important for people already diagnosed with a thyroid disorder and those who have had surgery for head & neck cancer.