5 Causes of a LOW TSH - Why a low TSH isn't always hyperthyroidism

The 5 most common causes of a low TSH. TSH is often used to diagnose thyroid problems in both men and women but it isn't always perfect. In this video, I explain the various triggers of a LOW tsh and what they meant for your body. First, let's talk about what the TSH is. TSH stands for thyroid stimulating hormone and it is produced by the pituitary gland in your brain. TSH then goes into your bloodstream where it stimulates your thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormone. TSH is either stimulating your thyroid gland because it's high or it's not because it's low. As thyroid hormone levels increase in your blood it will cause your TSH to DROP or reduce. This is why most doctors and patients associate a low TSH with a HIGH thyroid (or hyperthyroidism). But that isn't always the case... 5 common causes of a Low TSH include: #1. Hyperthyroidism Hyperthyroidism definitely can lead to a low TSH because your own body is producing too much thyroid hormone. This is often caused by the autoimmune disease Graves'. Hyperthyroidism is hard to miss because it's associated with serious symptoms that will lead you to your doctor. #2. Thyroid medication Prescribed thyroid medication can also cause a low TSH. What's confusing here, though, is that a low TSH in the setting of taking thyroid medication doesn't guarantee that you are hyperthyroid! You can definitely take thyroid medication to drop your TSH but still experience low thyroid symptoms. #3. Pituitary problems If you have pituitary problems then you will also have a low TSH. The problem with this condition is that the low TSH is also associated with low free thyroid hormones but you would never know unless you get these checked as well. You can often tell the difference because those with pituitary problems also tend to have problems with other hormones as well. #4. Lab anomaly Up to 3-5% of all labs are inaccurate! You can't always trust your lab test. If your clinical picture doesn't fit your lab tests then you will want to get your labs rechecked. #5. Eut