Thyroid Blood Test2026-01-19T18:10:35+00:00

Thyroid Blood Test

Thyroid Blood Test

Your thyroid gland controls many essential processes in the body, including energy levels, metabolism, mood, and temperature regulation. When your thyroid isn’t functioning properly, it can lead to a wide range of symptoms—often mistaken for other conditions.

  Clinician advice included

No GP referral needed

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Our pricing

Check your thyroid function and understand the cause of symptoms.

Thyroid Blood Test

£100

Why take this test?
  • Unexplained weight changes
  • Persistent tiredness or low energy
  • Mood swings, anxiety, or depression
  • Hair loss or thinning
  • Changes in heart rate or body temperature
  • Swelling in the neck (goitre)

What’s included in a thyroid blood test?

The Thyroid Blood Test checks three essential thyroid hormones:

What is measured?

  • T3 (Triiodothyronine) – Helps regulate metabolism and body temperature
  • T4 (Thyroxine) – Key hormone produced by the thyroid gland
  • TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) – Controls thyroid hormone production

What to expect?

  • Quick appointment – Simple blood draw at the clinic
  • Fast results – Usually available within a few working days
  • Clear report – Easy-to-read results with expert explanations
  • Optional follow-up – Discuss your results with a healthcare professional if needed

When should I get a thyroid blood test?

A thyroid blood test helps identify whether your thyroid is working as it should. The thyroid controls metabolism, energy levels, mood, and body temperature, so when it’s not functioning properly, symptoms can affect daily life.

You may benefit from a thyroid blood test if you’re experiencing:

  • Unexplained weight gain or loss
  • Persistent fatigue despite adequate rest
  • Mood changes, anxiety, or low mood
  • Hair thinning or loss
  • Feeling unusually cold or overheated
  • Changes in heart rate
  • Difficulty concentrating or brain fog
  • Irregular periods or fertility concerns

Thyroid blood tests are also used to monitor existing thyroid conditions or check thyroid function when family history suggests increased risk.

 

Paying for your blood test

All blood test services offered by Vitalscan are self-pay only. We do not accept private medical insurance for these tests, and they cannot be claimed through your insurer. Payment must be made in full at the time of booking.

Woman holding anatomical model of thyroid gland while touching her neck

What blood test is used to check thyroid function?

A thyroid blood test measures specific hormones to assess how well your thyroid is working. At Vitalscan, thyroid testing includes three key markers:

  • TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone): Produced by the pituitary gland to control thyroid hormone production. High TSH often indicates underactive thyroid, while low TSH may suggest overactive thyroid.
  • T4 (Thyroxine): The main hormone produced by the thyroid gland. T4 levels help confirm whether the thyroid is producing enough hormone.
  • T3 (Triiodothyronine): The active thyroid hormone that regulates metabolism and energy. T3 provides additional insight into thyroid function, particularly in complex cases.

Together, these markers provide a comprehensive view of thyroid health. Results are interpreted alongside symptoms and medical history to determine whether further investigation or treatment may be appropriate.

Underactive vs overactive thyroid symptoms

Understanding the difference between underactive and overactive thyroid symptoms can help you identify which test may be appropriate.

Underactive Thyroid (Hypothyroidism)

  • Weight gain despite no diet changes
  • Persistent fatigue and low energy
  • Feeling cold, especially hands/feet
  • Dry skin and brittle hair
  • Constipation
  • Low mood or depression
  • Slow heart rate
  • Heavy or irregular periods
  • Brain fog and poor concentration

Blood tests for an underactive thyroid

Blood tests for underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) typically show elevated TSH levels alongside low or normal T4. This pattern indicates the pituitary gland is working harder to stimulate a thyroid that isn’t producing enough hormone.

Common symptoms of underactive thyroid include fatigue, weight gain, cold sensitivity, low mood, and brain fog. If your results suggest reduced thyroid function, your GP can discuss treatment options such as thyroid hormone replacement.

Overactive Thyroid (Hyperthyroidism)

  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Nervousness, anxiety, restlessness
  • Heat intolerance and excessive sweating
  • Trembling hands
  • Increased bowel movements
  • Irritability and mood swings
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Light or irregular periods
  • Difficulty sleeping

Blood tests for an overactive thyroid

Blood tests for overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) usually show low TSH with elevated T3 or T4 levels. This indicates the thyroid is producing excess hormone, causing metabolism to speed up.

Symptoms of overactive thyroid include weight loss, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, heat sensitivity, and tremors. Abnormal results require medical review to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment, which may include medication or specialist referral.

Both conditions are detected through the same thyroid blood test measuring TSH, T3, and T4 levels. The pattern of results determines which type of thyroid dysfunction may be present.

Understanding your thyroid blood test results

Your thyroid test results show hormone levels measured in your blood. While your GP or specialist will provide clinical interpretation, understanding the basics can help you make sense of your report.

  • Normal thyroid function: TSH, T3, and T4 are all within expected ranges, indicating your thyroid is producing the right amount of hormone.
  • Potential underactive thyroid: High TSH with low or normal T4 may indicate your thyroid isn’t producing enough hormone. Your pituitary gland responds by producing more TSH to stimulate the thyroid.
  • Potential overactive thyroid: Low TSH with high T3 or T4 suggests excess thyroid hormone production. Your pituitary reduces TSH because hormone levels are already elevated.
  • Borderline or unclear results: Sometimes results fall outside normal ranges without clear patterns. Further testing or clinical review may be needed to determine significance.

All results should be reviewed in context with your symptoms, medical history, and individual circumstances. Your report can be shared with your GP for clinical advice and next steps.

How the process works

Step 1

Book your blood test

Choose your thyroid blood test and book online or by phone. Same-day appointments are often available. No GP referral needed. Select a time that fits your schedule, including early morning and evening slots.

Step 2

Attend your appointment

Your appointment takes 10-15 minutes from arrival to completion. A small blood sample is taken by trained phlebotomists or qualified healthcare professionals in a private consultation room. We use sterile, single-use equipment following strict infection control protocols.

Step 3

Laboratory analysis

Your sample is sent to our accredited laboratory partner the same day for TSH, T3, and T4 hormone analysis. Testing follows strict quality standards. Most thyroid blood test results are available within 3-5 working days.

Step 4

Receive your results and share

Clear results are provided promptly via secure email or post. Each thyroid marker (TSH, T3, T4) is explained so you understand what your results mean. Results can be easily shared with your GP or specialist to support diagnosis and treatment decisions.

Why choose a private thyroid blood test?

Choosing a private blood test for thyroid function allows you to access testing quickly, without the need for a GP referral. At Vital Scan, appointments are straightforward to book, samples are taken in a calm clinical setting, and results are returned in a clear, easy-to-understand format.

Private thyroid blood tests are often chosen for faster access, proactive health monitoring, or additional reassurance when symptoms are present.

Why choose Vitalscan for thyroid blood testing?

  • Fast access, no delays: Same-day and next-day appointments available. No waiting weeks for NHS testing when you need answers quickly.

  • No GP referral needed: Book directly based on your symptoms or concerns. Take control of your health without navigating referral processes.
  • Expert analysis: All samples analysed by accredited laboratories with results reviewed to clinical standards.
  • Clear, understandable reports: Results explained in plain language, not just numbers. Share with your GP or specialist for follow-up care.
  • Convenient Milton Keynes location: Close to Central Milton Keynes station with free parking. In-and-out appointments designed around your schedule.

Where would my blood test take place?

Your blood test will be carried out at Vitalscan, our modern health clinic located at 100 Avebury Boulevard, Milton Keynes (MK9 1FH).

Our friendly, trained professionals will ensure the process is quick, comfortable, and stress-free. You’ll be welcomed into a clean, private clinical setting with minimal waiting time and expert care from start to finish.

Our patient pathway

Complete Booking

Schedule your test online.

Confirmation

Receive booking info instantly.

Quality Check

Ensure test accuracy & safety.

Test Day

Attend your appointment.

Receive Results

Get your test results quickly.

Sharing Report

Share findings with your doctor.

Ready to book your blood test?

Ready to
book your test?

Booking your blood test is quick and easy – no referral needed and appointments available as soon as the same day. Get fast, accurate results for peace of mind.

Thyroid Blood Test FAQs

How much does a blood test for thyroid cost?2026-01-19T16:44:12+00:00

A private thyroid blood test at Vitalscan costs £100. This includes testing for TSH, T3, and T4 hormones, laboratory analysis, a clear results report within 3-5 working days, and the ability to share results with your GP.

What does a thyroid blood test check for?2026-01-19T16:46:07+00:00

A thyroid blood test checks TSH, T4, and T3 hormone levels to assess thyroid function. These markers help identify underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), or other thyroid-related conditions.

How do I know if I need a thyroid blood test?2026-01-19T16:46:32+00:00

You may need a thyroid blood test if you experience unexplained weight changes, persistent fatigue, mood swings, hair loss, temperature sensitivity, or irregular periods. Testing is also recommended if you have a family history of thyroid problems.

What do abnormal thyroid blood test results mean?2026-01-19T16:47:02+00:00

Abnormal thyroid results may indicate underactive thyroid (high TSH, low T4) or overactive thyroid (low TSH, high T3/T4). Results should be reviewed with your GP or specialist to determine if treatment or further testing is needed.

Can a blood test detect both underactive and overactive thyroid?2026-01-19T16:47:27+00:00

Yes. A thyroid blood test measures TSH, T3, and T4, which can identify both underactive and overactive thyroid function. The pattern of hormone levels helps determine which condition may be present.

Do I need to fast for a thyroid blood test?2026-01-19T16:47:58+00:00

No. Fasting is not required for thyroid blood tests. You can eat and drink normally before your appointment. However, if you’re having other tests at the same time, check with our team when booking.

How long do thyroid blood test results take?2026-01-19T16:48:21+00:00

Thyroid blood test results are typically available within 3-5 working days. Results are sent directly to you via secure email or post and can be shared with your GP or specialist.

Book a Thyroid Blood Test

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01908 755556

100 Avebury Boulevard,
Milton Keynes, MK9 1FH

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Vitalscan is regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and operates in accordance with all applicable healthcare standards. Our location ID is 1-14644634325. Our diagnostic imaging services are designed to support clinical decision-making but do not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by your own healthcare professional.

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