Today, more and more doctors are offering their patients hormone tests. Moreover, they give direction to these studies, both endocrinologists and gynecologists, neurologists, immunologists, urologists, oncologists and many other specialists.
This is due to the fact that hormones are involved in all biochemical processes that occur in the body. Their imbalance leads to impaired reproductive function, development, growth, metabolism, diseases of various body systems. The most severe cases without treatment can result in death.
On the other hand, the achievements of modern medicine make it possible to determine the level of any known hormone in the human body. Now even in a small town there are several modern laboratories taking blood for analysis.
Moreover, the methods for conducting research on hormones are constantly being improved. The cost of the analysis depends on which one the laboratory uses. In general, the price of such a blood test is not at all low.
When a person receives a referral from a doctor, he is interested in how and where to take hormone tests. Most likely, the specialist himself will advise one or more modern laboratories, the results of which he trusts.
Otherwise, you will have to make inquiries and find out which medical institutions perform the necessary tests for hormones. It is definitely worth asking the doctor and the laboratory how to prepare for research. General recommendations are as follows:
- blood should be taken on an empty stomach in the morning;
- refuse foods and medicines with iodine in 3 days;
- exclude alcohol and physical activity;
- if possible, reduce smoking;
- tests for sex hormones in women are given by the days of the cycle.
Do not be surprised if the doctor gives a referral for re-examination, since it is a very serious matter to interfere with the endocrine system. And the level of hormones in the blood is influenced by many external factors. In addition, a laboratory error is not ruled out.
Now there are the following hormone tests:
They can be released into the blood, tissue fluid and lymph. Synthesize hormones endocrine glands. These include:
- ovaries in women, testicles in men;
Hormones affect tissues and organs that are located far from where they are formed. They have high biological activity, that is, they have very low concentrations have the necessary effect.
All endocrine glands are interconnected and form a single system. The most important role in it belongs to the pituitary gland associated with the central nervous system.
Endocrine diseases are treated with hormonal drugs. And their diagnosis is carried out using hormone tests. Today, they can even be taken from a fetus in the womb.
The lack or excess of one or another hormone is reflected in the well-being and appearance of a person. The occurrence of problems with hair, skin, and weight may indicate the presence of endocrine pathologies.
Most often, sex and thyroid hormones are given. Since violations in their quantity can cause endocrine infertility. The following hormones affect reproductive function:
- follicle-stimulating (FSH) ;
- triiodothyronine (T3) free;
- antibodies to TSH (ATTG).
Thus, hormone tests are important for identifying endocrine diseases and prescribing adequate treatment. Its absence can lead to serious diseases, and in especially severe cases, to death.