Quick answer: A thyroid test is a blood test that checks how well your thyroid gland is working. The main tests are TSH, T3 and T4, often done together as a thyroid profile. Fasting is usually not needed. The thyroid test price in Yelahanka depends on whether you need TSH alone or a full profile, so call the clinic for current rates.
Tiredness, weight change, hair fall, irregular periods and feeling too cold or too hot can all be linked to the thyroid. Thyroid problems are common in India, especially in women. This guide explains the different thyroid tests, how to prepare, how to read your report and what affects the thyroid test price in Yelahanka.
Key takeaways
- A study across eight Indian cities found hypothyroidism in 10.95% of adults.
- Women were affected about three times as often as men (15.86% vs 5.02%) in that study.
- TSH is usually the first test; T3 and T4 add detail.
- Fasting is usually not needed for thyroid tests, but follow your doctor’s advice.
- Reference ranges vary by lab, so always discuss results with a doctor.
What is a thyroid test?
A thyroid test is a blood test that measures thyroid hormones and the hormone that controls them. The thyroid is a small gland in the neck that controls your metabolism, which affects energy, weight, heart rate, mood and periods. Thyroid tests help diagnose an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) or an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).
Which thyroid tests are there?
The main thyroid tests are TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone), T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine). Free T4 and free T3 measure the active hormone in your blood. A “thyroid profile” usually means TSH, T3 and T4 together. Thyroid antibody tests, such as anti-TPO, may be added to check for autoimmune thyroid disease.
| Test | What it measures | When it is used |
|---|---|---|
| TSH | Signal from the brain telling the thyroid to work | First test for most people; monitoring treatment |
| T4 / Free T4 | Main hormone made by the thyroid | Confirms underactive or overactive thyroid |
| T3 / Free T3 | Active thyroid hormone | Mainly for suspected overactive thyroid |
| Thyroid profile | TSH, T3 and T4 together | Wider check when symptoms are present |
| Anti-TPO antibodies | Antibodies against the thyroid | Checks for autoimmune thyroid disease |
How common are thyroid problems in India?
Thyroid problems are common in India. A study of 5,360 adults in eight Indian cities, including Bangalore, published in the Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism, found hypothyroidism in 10.95% of adults, of whom about a third were previously undetected. It was more common in women (15.86%) than men (5.02%), and anti-TPO antibodies were found in 21.85% of participants.
In simple words, about one in ten adults in that study had an underactive thyroid, and many did not know it.
What are the symptoms of thyroid problems?
An underactive thyroid can cause tiredness, weight gain, feeling cold, constipation, dry skin, hair fall, low mood and heavy or irregular periods. An overactive thyroid can cause weight loss, a fast heartbeat, feeling hot, anxiety, shaky hands and lighter periods. Symptoms develop slowly and are easy to miss.
| Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) | Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) |
|---|---|
| Tiredness and slowness | Restlessness and anxiety |
| Weight gain | Weight loss |
| Feeling cold | Feeling hot, sweating |
| Constipation | Loose motions |
| Heavy or irregular periods | Light or irregular periods |
If your periods have changed, see our guide to irregular periods.
Do I need to fast for a thyroid test?
Fasting is usually not needed for TSH, T3 and T4 tests. Many doctors prefer a morning sample and ask you to keep the timing consistent for repeat tests. If you take thyroid medicine, ask your doctor whether to take it before or after the blood test. Tell the lab about supplements such as biotin, which can affect some results.
How do I read my thyroid test report?
Your report shows each result next to the lab’s reference range. In general, a high TSH with low T4 suggests an underactive thyroid, while a low TSH with high T4 or T3 suggests an overactive thyroid. A slightly raised TSH with normal T4 may be subclinical hypothyroidism. Reference ranges differ by lab and are different in pregnancy, so always discuss your report with a doctor.
Thyroid testing is also important in pregnancy. Your gynaecologist may check it as part of antenatal care through our gynaecology services.
What affects the thyroid test price in Yelahanka?
The thyroid test price depends on whether you need TSH alone or a full thyroid profile, whether antibody tests are added, and whether a doctor’s consultation is included. Some health packages combine thyroid tests with sugar, cholesterol and blood count tests.
Thyroid test price at Naina Polyclinic: for the current price of TSH, a thyroid profile or antibody tests, and the report time, call Naina Polyclinic on +91 88615 22910 (Kogilu Road) or +91 96637 44434 (Yelahanka New Town).
For other tests, see our lab investigations page and our guide to the blood test lab in Yelahanka New Town.
Who should get a thyroid test?
You should consider a thyroid test if you have symptoms such as unexplained tiredness, weight change, hair fall or irregular periods, if you are planning a pregnancy or are pregnant, have a family history of thyroid disease, have diabetes, or are already on thyroid treatment and need monitoring. Your doctor will advise how often to repeat it.
Thyroid tests are often requested alongside other pregnancy tests such as the double screen test and quad screen test. An underactive thyroid can also cause muscle aches and stiffness, which our orthopaedic team can assess.
Where is Naina Polyclinic in Yelahanka?
Naina Polyclinic has served families in Yelahanka, Bengaluru, since 1998 from two centres:
- Naina Polyclinic (Kogilu Road): 2, Kogilu Main Rd, Kondappa Garden Layout, Maruthi Nagar, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560064. Phone: +91 88615 22910
- Naina Polyclinic & Physiotherapy Center (Yelahanka New Town): 2057, 13th B Cross Rd, MIG Sector B, Udaya Layout, Yelahanka New Town, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560064. Phone: +91 96637 44434
Our doctors consult at both centres on weekday mornings and evenings (see the contact page for each doctor’s timings). Please call the clinic for current sample collection hours. Sunday is a holiday. Full details are on our contact and appointments page.
Related reading: our guides on blood test lab in Yelahanka New Town and irregular periods: causes and treatment. You can also learn more about our lab investigations at Naina Polyclinic.
Frequently asked questions
What is the thyroid test price in Yelahanka?
The price depends on whether you need TSH alone, a full thyroid profile (TSH, T3, T4) or antibody tests. Prices change, so please call Naina Polyclinic on +91 88615 22910 (Kogilu Road) or +91 96637 44434 (Yelahanka New Town) for the current price and report time.
Is fasting required for a thyroid test?
Fasting is usually not required for TSH, T3 and T4 tests. A morning sample is often preferred, and repeat tests should be done at a similar time of day. If the thyroid test is combined with fasting tests, such as blood sugar or cholesterol, you may need to fast.
Which thyroid test is best, TSH or a full profile?
TSH is usually the first and most useful screening test. If TSH is abnormal, or you have symptoms, your doctor may order a full profile including T3 and T4. Antibody tests may be added to check for autoimmune thyroid disease. Your doctor will choose based on your symptoms.
How often should thyroid tests be done?
If you are on thyroid treatment, your doctor may check TSH every few weeks after a dose change and then less often once stable. If you have no thyroid problem, testing is usually done when symptoms appear, during pregnancy planning, or as part of a routine check-up.
Can thyroid problems cause irregular periods?
Yes. Both underactive and overactive thyroid can cause irregular periods. An underactive thyroid may cause heavy or frequent periods, while an overactive thyroid may cause light or missed periods. A thyroid test is often part of the check-up for irregular periods.
Book an appointment at Naina Polyclinic
Feeling tired or noticing weight or period changes? Call us to book a thyroid test, or send us a message through our contact page. Kogilu Road: +91 88615 22910. Yelahanka New Town: +91 96637 44434. In an emergency, go to the nearest emergency department.
Medically reviewed by: Naina Polyclinic medical team. Last reviewed: November 2026.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Please consult a doctor about your own symptoms, tests and treatment.