What happens after I get my results?

You'll receive detailed doctor notes in simple language explaining what your TSI levels mean and whether they indicate Graves' disease or another cause of hyperthyroidism. These notes include personalized recommendations like whether you may need antithyroid medication, lifestyle adjustments to manage symptoms, or follow-up with an endocrinologist. You'll also get the standard lab report and can track your TSI levels over time using our trends feature, which is especially helpful if you're undergoing treatment or monitoring disease activity.

When will I get my results?

You can expect your results within approximately 7 business days from when your sample reaches the lab. In some cases, if confirmation testing is required to ensure accuracy, the turnaround time may be extended. You'll be notified as soon as your results are ready to view in your secure online account.

Who should consider getting this test?

This test is important for anyone who has been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and needs to determine if Graves' disease is the cause. It's especially useful if you're considering antithyroid drug therapy, as markedly elevated TSI levels may indicate you won't respond well to this treatment. You should also consider this test if you have symptoms of overactive thyroid like unexplained weight loss, rapid heartbeat, tremors, or bulging eyes, particularly if you have a family history of autoimmune thyroid disease.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

You may need this test if you're experiencing symptoms of hyperthyroidism such as unexplained weight loss despite eating normally, rapid or irregular heartbeat, feeling anxious or irritable, trembling hands, excessive sweating, or difficulty sleeping. Other signs include feeling unusually warm or heat-intolerant, muscle weakness, more frequent bowel movements, and changes in your eyes like bulging or irritation. Women may also notice lighter or irregular periods.

How can I naturally support my thyroid health with Graves' disease?

While Graves' disease typically requires medical treatment, you can support your overall thyroid health through stress management techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga, as stress can worsen symptoms. Eating a balanced diet rich in selenium (Brazil nuts, eggs, fish) and avoiding excessive iodine may help. Getting adequate rest, limiting caffeine and stimulants that can worsen rapid heartbeat, and avoiding smoking are also important, as smoking can worsen eye symptoms associated with Graves' disease.

What is TSI and why does it matter?

TSI stands for Thyroid-Stimulating Immunoglobulin, which are antibodies your immune system produces when you have Graves' disease. Unlike normal thyroid regulation, these antibodies bind to your thyroid cells and constantly stimulate them to produce too much thyroid hormone, causing hyperthyroidism. TSI levels matter because they're the specific marker that distinguishes Graves' disease from other causes of an overactive thyroid, and high levels can help predict how well you'll respond to different treatments.

What does high TSI mean?

High TSI levels confirm that you have Graves' disease, an autoimmune condition causing your thyroid to be overactive. Markedly elevated TSI can indicate that antithyroid medications may be less effective for you, and alternative treatments like radioactive iodine or surgery might be considered. High TSI is also associated with more active disease and may correlate with symptoms like rapid heartbeat, weight loss, and in some cases, the eye changes characteristic of Graves' disease.

How often should I retest my TSI levels?

If you're being treated for Graves' disease, your doctor will typically monitor your TSI levels periodically to assess disease activity and treatment response. TSI may be retested every few months during active treatment, and before considering stopping antithyroid medication to predict the likelihood of remission. Once your condition is stable or in remission, less frequent monitoring may be needed, though your doctor will determine the best schedule based on your individual situation.