How are Thyroid Hormones Secreted?

The thyroid gland is located in the anterior middle part of our neck and is an important part of our endocrine system. It produces the hormones T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine), which regulate the metabolic rate in the body. The production of these hormones is controlled by TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) secreted by the pituitary gland. When T3 and T4 levels increase in the blood, the pituitary gland tries to balance thyroid hormone levels by reducing TSH secretion. Conversely, when the amount of T3 and T4 decreases, the pituitary gland secretes more TSH and makes the thyroid gland work harder, increasing the level of these hormones.

What is Low TSH?

Low TSH occurs when the pituitary gland does not produce enough TSH or when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. When too much hormone is secreted from the thyroid gland, the body can react naturally and stop producing TSH. In this case, TSH levels fall.

Causes of Low TSH

The main causes of low TSH are:

• Graves’ Disease
• Early stage of Hashimoto’s Disease
• Thyroid inflammations
• Overactive thyroid
• Side effects of drugs such as cortisone
• Excessive iodine consumption
• Presence of hot nodules
• Onset of toxic goiter
• Insufficient TSH secretion from the pituitary Use of levothyroxine medication

Symptoms of Low TSH

Low TSH can manifest itself with various symptoms. These include:

• Heart palpitations
• Irritability
• Insomnia
• Weight loss
• Hair loss
• Trembling hands
• Dry mouth
• Anxiety and restlessness
• Decreased sperm count in men
• Menstrual irregularity

TSH Blood Test

A TSH test is a test to measure thyroid hormone levels in the blood. Normal TSH levels are usually between 0.4 and 4.0 mU/L. A TSH level below 0.4 indicates that the thyroid gland is overactive and secreting too much thyroid hormone.

Treatment of Low TSH

Treatment of low TSH depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, medications that reduce thyroid hormone production or radioactive iodine therapy are used. In rare cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. In addition, if low TSH is a side effect of medications, these medications should be replaced with their counterparts.

The Role of Nutrition and Lifestyle

Nutrition is a very important factor for balancing TSH levels. Excess iodine consumption can cause the thyroid gland to overwork. Therefore, it is recommended to prefer non-iodized salt. A healthy diet and regular exercise contribute to balancing hormone levels. Especially foods rich in selenium (such as fish, garlic, walnuts, chicken) should be consumed.

Regular exercise can reduce hormone imbalance. Physical activity for at least 20-30 minutes a day can support thyroid function.