Urine Thyroid Assessment
When obvious thyroid problems are deemed “normal”
Standard screening lab tests through your family doctor have been found to inaccurately reflect thyroid function. In particular, the TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) test uses a “normal range” that includes people suffering from abnormal thyroid function.
Are you suffering from symptoms that sound like they are related to abnormal thyroid function? You are not alone: thyroid dysfunction – particularly functioning below normal capacity – is very common.
By some estimates, as many as 2 million Canadians could have undiagnosed thyroid disease. Thyroid disease refers to both hypo and hyperthyroidism, but hypothyroidism is by far the most common. Even mild hypothyroidism can have significant health consequences, so early detection is important.
Approximately 75% of cases of hyperthyroidism are due to Grave’s disease. Hyperthyroidism is usually treated with anti-thyroid medications, radioactive iodine (which destroys the thyroid and stops the excess production of hormones), or surgery to remove the thyroid.
The Urinary Thyroid Assessment costs $290.
The Urinary Iodine and Bromine test costs $170.
Download a sample test report.
The Urinary Thyroid Assessment measures unconjugated free triiodothyronine (T3), unconjugated free thyroxine (T4) and selenium in a 24 hour urine collection. There are several reasons why a urinary thyroid assessment may be beneficial:
This test is used to ensure your iodine intake is optimal (for both the general population or specific populations such as pregnant women). North American soil contains less iodine than island countries that have more exposure to the ocean, and our populations tend to eat less seafood and sea vegetation (eg. seaweed), which are good sources of iodine, than many island nations, and consequently we have a higher incidence of thyroid disease. Adequate intake of iodine may also provide protection against breast, thyroid or prostate cancer.
Bromine is in the same element family as iodine and as such, exposure to bromine results in a decrease in the bodily stores of iodine as a result, as they compete for tissue stores. Bromine exposure can occur by way of medications, foods treated with pesticides, water purifiers and fire retardant chemicals, and can be measured through this test, helping to determine if iodine stores are or may be compromised. Also, individuals exposed to pesticides or fumigants should assess bromine excretion.
Urinary iodine levels may be used to assess appropriateness of dose and/or absorption of iodine, rather than blindly taking iodine supplements without measurements. With initiation of iodine supplementation, measuring urinary iodine levels can also be used to perform an iodine loading test.
Our Naturopathic Doctors can evaluate and give treatment options for thyroid conditions. Book an appointment or contact Zentai Wellness Centre for further inquiries.