General medicine

Thyroid Testing & Treatment

Thyroid testing and treatment in Houston, TX. Lab tests and follow-up in Spanish, with affordable pricing.

The thyroid is a small gland at the base of the neck that sets the body's pace: energy, temperature, weight and even mood. Thyroid problems are common, especially in women, and they progress so slowly that many people mistake them for stress or aging.

When the thyroid runs slow (hypothyroidism)

Tiredness and sleepiness despite a full night's sleep
Feeling cold when everyone else is comfortable
Gaining a few pounds without eating more
Dry skin, thinning hair, brittle nails
Constipation, heavier periods, low mood

When it runs fast (hyperthyroidism)

Palpitations or a racing heart at rest
Weight loss despite a good appetite
Nervousness, shaky hands, insomnia
Feeling hot and sweating a lot

How we check it

The first step is a TSH blood test, the hormone that regulates the thyroid. Depending on the result, the doctor adds free T4 or other tests. If a lump is felt in the neck, an ultrasound may be ordered. The sample is drawn in our lab during the visit.

Treatment and follow-up

Hypothyroidism is treated with a daily thyroid hormone pill. It works best on an empty stomach with water, kept apart from calcium, iron and antacids. After any dose change, TSH is rechecked in six to eight weeks; once stable, a yearly check is enough. Hyperthyroidism usually needs an endocrinologist's evaluation, and in that case we help you with the referral.

Pregnancy and the thyroid

If you're pregnant or planning to be and already take thyroid medication, tell the doctor early: the dose almost always changes during pregnancy.

Included in this service

Thyroid function tests (TSH, T3, T4)

Diagnosis of hypo- and hyperthyroidism

Treatment and medication adjustment

Follow-up in Spanish

Ready to schedule your appointment?

Call us now or visit us — no appointment needed

+1 (281) 588-0033

Frequently Asked Questions

Usually not for TSH. If you take biotin, a common hair supplement, stop it two days before because it skews the result. If you already take thyroid medication, ask whether to take it before or after the draw.

Six to eight weeks after any dose change and, once stable, once a year or sooner if symptoms return.

It usually adds only a few pounds, largely from fluid retention. A big gain almost always has other causes, which the doctor looks into at the same visit.