You've received your FT4 Blood Test results, but you may still need assistance determining if they fall within the normal range. Continue reading this section to gain clarity on whether your FT4 results are within the expected range or not.
What Does FT4 Test Results Mean?
Anything beyond normal FT4 levels may mean underlying thyroid conditions. However, these tests are not conclusive. Your healthcare provider will look at T3 and TSH hormone test results to make accurate and on-time diagnosis.
What is the FT4 Normal Range?
The normal free T4 range may vary based on the age, gender and overall health profile.
FT4 test results that reveal a reading beyond these free thyroxine FT4 normal ranges require immediate medical consultation.
What Conditions Can Cause High FT4 Levels?
Higher than normal FT4 levels may be caused due to
- Hyperthyroidism (which may be caused due to Graves disease)
- Thyroiditis (referred to as the enlargement of the Thyroid gland)
- Enlarged thyroid gland that makes excessive thyroid hormones
- Toxic thyroid nodules
- Too much iodine in the diet
- Non-cancerous tumours in the pituitary gland
- Pregnancy (it may lead to temporary rise in T4 hormone levels)
- Oestrogen-containing birth control pills
You may have symptoms, such as unexplained weight loss, increased bowel movements, and rapid heartbeat, etc.
What Conditions Can Cause Low FT4 Levels?
Lower than normal FT4 levels may be caused due to
- Hypothyroidism (caused due to Hashimoto disease)
- Thyroiditis
- Side effects from certain medications
- Congenital hypothyroidism (a thyroid disorder that affects newborns from birth)
Symptoms of low FT4 levels may include excessive fatigue, intolerance to cold temperatures, lower than normal heart rate and weight gain among others. Since free thyroxine FT4 hormone levels impact your body’s metabolism, growth and overall functioning, you should consult with your healthcare provider if you are experiencing above symptoms constantly.