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Testing for health conditions at home is increasingly popular, as the tests are often convenient and discreet. Here, we look at some popular options for testing thyroid function, including their costs and aftercare.
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A quick look at the best at-home thyroid tests
Best for consultations: LetsGetChecked At-Home Thyroid Tests | Skip to review
LetsGetChecked At-Home Thyroid Tests
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Best for insurance: Paloma Health Complete Thyroid Test | Skip to review
Paloma Health Complete Thyroid Test
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Best for quick results: Everlywell Thyroid Test | Skip to review
Everlywell Thyroid Test
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Best for free shipping: myLab Box At Home Thyroid Health Screening Test | Skip to review
myLab Box At Home Thyroid Health Screening Test
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Best at-home thyroid tests
If you want to carry out a thyroid test, you may consider one of the following from these popular companies. None of these companies state that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves their thyroid tests.
Learn more about the thyroid’s function.
thyroid’s function
LetsGetChecked At-Home Thyroid Tests
Collection method: finger prick
Results in: 2 to 5 days
Tests for: FSH, free thyroxine, free triiodothyronine, thyroglobulin antibodies, thyroid peroxidase antibodies
Accepts insurance: HSA/FSA only, offers itemized receipt for reimbursement
Follow-up guidance: free assistance from clinical team to discuss positive results
Use code “HEALTHLINE25″ for 25% off
$99.00 AT LETSGETCHECKED
*Price may vary.
LetsGetChecked offers two thyroid tests. One test measures the three main thyroid hormones: thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), triiodothyronine (T3), and thyroxine (T4). The other test measures antibodies as well as hormone levels.
For this test, you will take a finger-prick blood sample, then return it to the company right away using the prepaid shipping label in the kit.
According to LetsGetChecked, the results are typically available in 2 to 5 days.
While the price starts from $99, people who require regular testing may take advantage of the company’s subscription feature, saving up to 30% on each order. People can choose to receive a test every 3, 6, or 12 months.
The company’s team of doctors and nurses reviews the results and contacts you to discuss them. They can go over any concerns and advise about the next steps if the result is positive.
Learn more about LetsGetChecked.
LetsGetChecked
Customer reviews
Customers leaving positive reviews on Trustpilot mentioned the fast turnaround of results and the clear instructions. However, others had issues with the shipping. Overall, the brand has an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5.
Trustpilot
On the Better Business Bureau (BBB), the average review rating is lower at 1 out of 5, and the BBB gives the brand a rating of D-. However, there are just 10 reviews for the company on BBB. Among other issues, customers complain about receiving tests close to their expiry date.
Better Business Bureau (BBB)
results are available in 2 to 5 days
you can benefit from guidance from a healthcare professional if the result is positive
the company offers a subscription option for those who need to test regularly
there is the possibility of inaccuracy if there are errors in taking the sample, as with all at-home tests
if your results are outside the standard range, even with guidance from a healthcare professional, you will still need to consult a doctor
results are available in 2 to 5 days
you can benefit from guidance from a healthcare professional if the result is positive
the company offers a subscription option for those who need to test regularly
there is the possibility of inaccuracy if there are errors in taking the sample, as with all at-home tests
if your results are outside the standard range, even with guidance from a healthcare professional, you will still need to consult a doctor
Returns: no returns or refunds
Shipping: free shipping in the United States (Alaska and Hawaii included)
Returns: no returns or refunds
Shipping: free shipping in the United States (Alaska and Hawaii included)
Paloma Health Complete Thyroid Test
Collection method: finger prick
Results in: 5 days
Tests for: thyroid health
Accepts insurance: FSA/HSA only
Follow-up guidance: personal guidance based on result
$99.00 AT PALOMA HEALTH
*Price may vary.
This test measures levels of TSH, free T4, free T3, and thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPO), which can be higher in people with Hashimoto thyroiditis.
higher
Hashimoto thyroiditis
Paloma offers support from thyroid specialists, fast turnaround times for results, and relatively affordable prices. While the cost of the test itself is not typically covered by insurance, the company accepts insurance for medical consultations.
After you receive your results, you will get ongoing personal guidance from a thyroid specialist. You will also get an algorithm-generated treatment recommendation that medical professionals supervise, according to Paloma.
The test requires a finger-prick blood sample, and its results are available within a week. At checkout, individuals can choose to add a vitamin D and reverse T3 test to their purchase.
vitamin D
The company accepts payments from flexible spending accounts (FSAs) and health savings accounts (HSAs).
health savings accounts (HSAs)
The Paloma Complete Thyroid Blood Test Kit costs $99 for nonmembers and $75 for members. Membership costs $16 a month.
Paloma members can also use their health insurance to pay for appointments with the company’s doctors. These cost $60 for people without membership or insurance.
health insurance
Customer reviews
Customers leaving positive reviews for Paloma mentioned their compassionate approach. They also found that the service helped improve their health outcomes. However, it is difficult to see less positive reviews on the Paloma website. Overall, the brand has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5, according to Google and Facebook reviews.
Paloma
thyroid specialists on staff
ongoing supervision and regular medication and treatment plan updates
online learning resources and community
no tests other than thyroid tests
not available in New York, New Jersey, or Rhode Island
$60 for an appointment without insurance
thyroid specialists on staff
ongoing supervision and regular medication and treatment plan updates
online learning resources and community
no tests other than thyroid tests
not available in New York, New Jersey, or Rhode Island
$60 for an appointment without insurance
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping
Everlywell Thyroid Test
Collection method: finger prick
Results in: a few days
Tests for: TSH, free T3, free T4, thyroid antibodies
Insurance coverage: accepts HSA/FSA
Follow-up guidance: access to independent physician network to discuss questions and treatment options if there is a positive result
Use code “HEALTHLINE25” for 25% off.
$149.00 AT EVERLYWELL
*Price may vary.
The Everlywell at-home thyroid test measures thyroid hormone levels and antibodies in a finger-prick blood sample.
The testing kit includes everything you need, including a prepaid shipping label.
Everlywell says that a doctor reviews each result. The results are available to view on the company’s secure online platform within days, and you can also view detailed information about what the results mean.
Once you access your results, you can set up a call to discuss them with a healthcare professional if you want more detail.
Customers can also choose to speak with a doctor before ordering an at-home health test.
Everlywell offers subscription savings for people who require testing every three months. People who choose this option will receive 15% off each order.
Learn more about Everlywell.
Everlywell
There is also a membership option for people who wish to get tested every month. This provides a 15% saving.
Customer reviews
Customers leaving positive reviews on Trustpilot mentioned the company’s fast turnaround of results. They also found the service beneficial for getting to the bottom of health problems. However, others found problems with the accuracy of their results. Overall, the brand has an average review rating of 2.8 out of 5.
Trustpilot
On BBB, the average review rating is lower, at 1.35 out of 5. Customers reported issues with getting their results, but others praised the customer service. BBB gives Everlywell an A+ rating.
BBB
the subscription option reduces the cost per test
the results are available on a secure platform
the company provides additional information and resources along with test results
high cost for one-time purchases
not available for New York residents
some users report shipping problems
the subscription option reduces the cost per test
the results are available on a secure platform
the company provides additional information and resources along with test results
high cost for one-time purchases
not available for New York residents
some users report shipping problems
Returns: strict return and refund policy
Shipping: free shipping
Returns: strict return and refund policy
Shipping: free shipping
myLab Box At Home Thyroid Health Screening Test
Collection method: finger prick
Results in: 1 to 5 days
Tests for: TSH, T3, T4, and TPO antibody levels
Accepts insurance: FSA/HSA only
Follow-up guidance: free physician telemedicine consult if results are positive
SHOP NOW AT MYLAB BOX
myLAB Box offers a thyroid health screening test for males and females. The sample collection method is a finger prick test. It comes with free shipping but is not available to New York residents.
The company states it issues results in 1 to 5 days, making it the quickest to get back to people. Additionally, customers can attend an online doctor consultation if they receive a positive result.
Individuals who wish to get tested every 6 months can opt for the subscription option. The company accepts FSA and HSA payments.
Learn more about myLAB Box.
myLAB Box
Customer reviews
Customers leaving positive reviews on Trustpilot mentioned the helpful customer service and said they found it simple to do the test. However, others had issues with shipping. Overall, the brand has an average review rating of 3.7 out of 5.
Trustpilot
On BBB, the average review rating is lower, at 1 out of 5. This is based on four reviews. The BBB gives the brand an F rating.
BBB
option of testing every 6 months via subscription
FSA or HSA payments
results within a few days
consultations for those with positive results only
no shipping to New York
potential difficulty reaching customer services
option of testing every 6 months via subscription
FSA or HSA payments
results within a few days
consultations for those with positive results only
no shipping to New York
potential difficulty reaching customer services
Thyroid test comparison
The table below compares the cost of the different tests within this article.
All products require a finger prick to collect a blood sample.
How we chose at-home thyroid tests
We selected these at-home thyroid tests based on criteria we think are good indicators of safety, quality, and transparency.
As a part of our vetting process, we consider:
the product’s composition, ingredients, and overall quality
any third-party certifications
the company’s reputation and business practices
any lab test results
marketing claims
Learn more about how we vet products and brands.
how we vet products and brands
What is the thyroid?
The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of the neck. This gland makes and releases thyroid hormones, which help regulate the body’s use of energy.
Around 90% of the hormones the thyroid makes are in the form of thyroxine, also known as T4 or inactive thyroid hormone. The other 10% are in the form of triiodothyronine, also known as T3 or active thyroid hormone.
90%
thyroxine
The pituitary gland makes thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). This signals to the thyroid how much thyroid hormone it needs to produce.
pituitary gland
signals
Thyroid hormones affect almost every organ in the body. Important body functions that the thyroid controls include:
breathing
heart rate
body weight
digestion
mood
How do at-home thyroid tests work?
At-home thyroid tests typically measure several thyroid hormones, including:
TSH
T3
T4
Some tests also check for thyroid antibodies. The presence of these can indicate the autoimmune disease Hashimoto thyroiditis.
autoimmune disease
The results of thyroid testing help you determine whether you need to consult a doctor.
Using a testing kit typically involves taking a finger-prick blood sample, placing the sample in a plastic bag, and returning it to the company in the provided envelope.
Each testing kit has specific instructions, and it is essential to follow these carefully to ensure an accurate result.
Some testing companies also have a doctor review your results. If you prefer, the company may be able to send the results to your regular doctor.
It is important to note that several things can interfere with thyroid test results, affecting the test itself or your thyroid hormone levels.
can interfere
Examples that affect thyroid hormone levels include:
pregnancy
pregnancy
underlying health conditions
advancing age
some medications, such as opioids, androgens, and estrogen
opioids
estrogen
Biotin supplements can also affect thyroid test results.
Biotin
At-home testing offers several advantages, including:
several advantages
convenience
cost-effectiveness
quick results
confidentiality
Most private health insurance companies do not cover the costs of at-home testing.
private health insurance
However, some at-home test companies accept payments from FSAs or HRAs.
Learn more about FSAs and HRAs.
FSAs and HRAs
Are at-home thyroid tests reliable?
Initial research suggests that at-home tests and telehealth consultations can expand screening for thyroid conditions such as underactive and overactive thyroid.
Initial research
telehealth
thyroid conditions
However, research into the accuracy of at-home tests is limited. The risk of collecting an unusable sample is higher when using an at-home test, so it is important to read and follow any instructions from the manufacturer carefully.
Using companies that analyze samples in CLIA and CAP-certified labs may mean higher accuracy, as these labs must meet strict state and federal standards to have certifications.
You may also wish to contact a doctor or healthcare professional for help interpreting your test results, and you may need further tests to confirm or rule out a health condition.
Who needs a thyroid test?
Usually, only people with symptoms of an overactive or underactive thyroid will find a thyroid test helpful.
Usually
Symptoms of hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid, may include:
hypothyroidism
include
fatigue
extra sensitivity to cold temperatures
sensitivity to cold
constipation
constipation
weight gain
irregular or heavy periods
depression
a slow heart rate
joint aches and pains
a puffy face
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, may include:
hyperthyroidism
include
nervousness
weakness and fatigue
extra sensitivity to hot temperatures
problems sleeping
a hand tremor
diarrhea
weight loss
How to read thyroid test results
A blood test showing a high level of TSH may indicate hypothyroidism.
high level of TSH
Higher levels of TSH and T4 levels in a typical range may mean a risk of developing hypothyroidism in the future.
If your test results show you to have low TSH levels and higher levels of T3 or T4, it may suggest you have hyperthyroidism.
low TSH levels
However, it is important to discuss any at-home thyroid test results with a healthcare professional to ensure you are interpreting the results correctly.
When to contact a doctor
Once you receive the results of your at-home thyroid test, you should speak with a doctor who can review the results and advise on the next steps.
However, whether you have taken a thyroid test or not, you can look out for some symptoms of a thyroid condition. For example, someone with hypothyroidism can present with symptoms such as fatigue, heightened sensitivity to cold, constipation, and weight gain.
symptoms
Someone with hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, can present with symptoms such as nervousness, weakness, weight loss, and heightened sensitivity to heat.
symptoms
If you experience any of these symptoms, or any of the others listed in this article, speak with a doctor or healthcare professional as soon as possible to determine the cause.
Frequently asked questions about at-home thyroid tests
According to the British Thyroid Foundation, there is a link between body temperature and thyroid function. For example, a low body temperature may indicate a hypothyroid condition. However, body temperature alone does not define thyroid health.
British Thyroid Foundation
If you want to check your thyroid at home without a blood test, you may be able to do so with a thermometer by following the steps below:
Before going to bed, put a thermometer on a beside surface or somewhere else that you can easily reach without getting up.
Upon waking up, hold the thermometer against the bare skin of the armpit.
Keep the thermometer in the armpit for several minutes while lying down.
Write down the temperature reading.
Do this for several days in a row to get an average.
If you menstruate, you should perform this test from the second day of your cycle because your body temperature rises naturally during ovulation.
To gauge whether your body temperature suggests that you are in good health, scientists say that the average adult body temperature is 97.86°F (36.59°C).
97.86°F (36.59°C)
However, this can vary from person to person and depending on where on the body you take a measurement.
You should always consult a doctor if you are concerned about your thyroid function.
According to the British Thyroid Foundation, there is a link between body temperature and thyroid function. For example, a low body temperature may indicate a hypothyroid condition. However, body temperature alone does not define thyroid health.
British Thyroid Foundation
If you want to check your thyroid at home without a blood test, you may be able to do so with a thermometer by following the steps below:
Before going to bed, put a thermometer on a beside surface or somewhere else that you can easily reach without getting up.
Upon waking up, hold the thermometer against the bare skin of the armpit.
Keep the thermometer in the armpit for several minutes while lying down.
Write down the temperature reading.
Do this for several days in a row to get an average.
If you menstruate, you should perform this test from the second day of your cycle because your body temperature rises naturally during ovulation.
To gauge whether your body temperature suggests that you are in good health, scientists say that the average adult body temperature is 97.86°F (36.59°C).
97.86°F (36.59°C)
However, this can vary from person to person and depending on where on the body you take a measurement.
You should always consult a doctor if you are concerned about your thyroid function.
Yes, you can check your thyroid levels at home with an at-home test. You will need to collect a sample — usually a finger-prick blood sample — and send it to a laboratory. You can get your results within a few working days.
Yes, you can check your thyroid levels at home with an at-home test. You will need to collect a sample — usually a finger-prick blood sample — and send it to a laboratory. You can get your results within a few working days.
You can get a thyroid test without going to a doctor by purchasing at-home test kits online.
You can get a thyroid test without going to a doctor by purchasing at-home test kits online.
If you have hypothyroidism, you may feel fatigued, depressed, and extra sensitive to cold temperatures.
may feel
If you have hyperthyroidism, you may feel nervous, weak, and extra sensitive to heat.
may feel
You should check your thyroid function with a doctor or an at-home test kit.
If you have hypothyroidism, you may feel fatigued, depressed, and extra sensitive to cold temperatures.
may feel
If you have hyperthyroidism, you may feel nervous, weak, and extra sensitive to heat.
may feel
You should check your thyroid function with a doctor or an at-home test kit.
Knowing and noticing the signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism can alert you to a possible thyroid condition.
However, getting the results of an at-home test can then help you decide whether you need to speak with a doctor or healthcare professional.
Knowing and noticing the signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism can alert you to a possible thyroid condition.
However, getting the results of an at-home test can then help you decide whether you need to speak with a doctor or healthcare professional.
There is little research into the accuracy of at-home tests.
You should follow the test’s instructions carefully to make sure you collect a valid sample.
You can also prioritize getting tests from companies that use Clinical Laboratory Independent Amendments (CLIA) and College of American Pathologists (CAP) certified labs.
There is little research into the accuracy of at-home tests.
You should follow the test’s instructions carefully to make sure you collect a valid sample.
You can also prioritize getting tests from companies that use Clinical Laboratory Independent Amendments (CLIA) and College of American Pathologists (CAP) certified labs.
Summary
At-home thyroid tests can be more convenient than visiting a clinic, which may help some people manage their health.
People can often access their results in a few days and review them with a doctor or healthcare professional. If you receive a positive result, an appropriate healthcare team can help you develop a treatment plan that best suits your needs.