What happens after I get my results?

You'll receive detailed doctor notes in simple language explaining what your antibody levels mean for your thyroid health and overall well-being. These notes include personalized recommendations like dietary modifications, supplement suggestions, or whether you should follow up with an endocrinologist. Along with your standard lab report, you can use our trends feature to monitor your antibody levels over time, which is especially helpful for tracking autoimmune activity and treatment response.

Who should consider getting this test?

This test is essential for anyone diagnosed with hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism who wants to know if it's caused by autoimmune disease. You should also consider it if you have symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or mood issues along with a family history of thyroid or autoimmune conditions. It's particularly valuable for women who are pregnant or planning to conceive, as thyroid antibodies can affect fertility and pregnancy outcomes.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms include persistent fatigue that doesn't improve with rest, unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight, feeling unusually cold or sensitive to temperature changes, and mood changes like depression or anxiety. You might also experience brain fog, hair loss, dry skin, constipation, or irregular menstrual periods. These symptoms often develop gradually and may be mistaken for stress or aging.

What are thyroid peroxidase antibodies and why do they matter?

Thyroid peroxidase is an enzyme your thyroid gland needs to produce thyroid hormones. When your immune system produces antibodies against this enzyme, it signals autoimmune thyroid disease where your body is attacking its own thyroid. High TPO antibodies are found in about 90% of people with Hashimoto's thyroiditis and can also appear in Graves' disease, helping doctors understand the cause of your thyroid dysfunction rather than just treating symptoms.

How can I naturally support my thyroid with autoimmune issues?

Focus on reducing inflammation through an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids from fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds. Ensure adequate selenium intake through Brazil nuts, eggs, and fish, as selenium supports thyroid function and may help reduce antibody levels. Managing stress through yoga, meditation, or regular exercise is crucial since stress can worsen autoimmune responses. Some people also benefit from avoiding gluten and reducing processed foods.

What does it mean if my TPO antibodies are high?

Elevated TPO antibodies indicate that your immune system is producing antibodies against your thyroid gland, which is the hallmark of autoimmune thyroid disease. This most commonly points to Hashimoto's thyroiditis, the leading cause of hypothyroidism, but can also appear in Graves' disease. High antibodies don't always mean you have symptoms now, but they increase your risk of developing thyroid problems over time and warrant monitoring.

How often should I retest my TPO antibodies?

If your antibodies are elevated, your doctor will typically want to monitor your thyroid function (TSH, Free T3, Free T4) every 6-12 months rather than retesting antibodies frequently, since antibody levels don't change rapidly. However, if you're implementing lifestyle changes or treatment to reduce autoimmune activity, retesting antibodies annually can help track progress. If your initial test is negative but you develop new symptoms, retesting in 1-2 years may be warranted.

What should I do if my TPO antibodies are elevated?

Start by scheduling a follow-up with your doctor or an endocrinologist to discuss your results and check your thyroid hormone levels if not already done. Focus on lifestyle modifications like adopting an anti-inflammatory diet, managing stress, getting adequate sleep, and ensuring proper nutrient intake especially selenium and vitamin D. Your doctor may recommend thyroid hormone replacement if your thyroid function is affected, and regular monitoring will help catch any changes early.