What does it mean if thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels are elevated, and what should I do?

Generally, elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels may be caused by factors such as iodine deficiency, mental stress, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, subclinical hypothyroidism, and pituitary tumors. Patients can receive treatments such as general care and medication under the guidance of a doctor.

1. Iodine deficiency: When the body is in an iodine-deficient environment for a prolonged period, such as living in an iodine-deficient area, insufficient iodine intake can reduce the synthesis of thyroid hormones, leading to elevated TSH levels. It is recommended to improve this condition through dietary adjustments, increasing the intake of iodine-rich foods such as kelp, nori, and sea fish.

2. Mental stress: Stressful emotions can stimulate the hypothalamus to secrete certain neurotransmitters and hormones, which may interfere with the normal feedback regulation mechanism of thyroid hormones, causing elevated TSH levels. It is recommended to relieve mental stress and engage in appropriate physical exercise, such as yoga or jogging, to help reduce stress.

3. Hashimoto's thyroiditis: The body produces autoantibodies that attack thyroid tissue, damaging thyroid cells and reducing the capacity for thyroid hormone synthesis and secretion. The decreased thyroid hormone levels trigger the hypothalamic-pituitary axis to increase TSH secretion. It is recommended to follow a doctor's guidance for treatment with medications such as prednisone tablets or propylthiouracil tablets.

4. Subclinical hypothyroidism: A mild injury to the thyroid gland or subtle changes in the body's demand for thyroid hormones may lead to elevated TSH levels. It is recommended to follow a doctor's guidance for treatment with medications such as thyroid extract tablets or levothyroxine sodium tablets.

5. Pituitary tumor: When a tumor develops in the pituitary gland, it can cause abnormal proliferation of pituitary cells, leading to dysregulated secretion of TSH and consequently elevated TSH levels. It is recommended to follow a doctor's guidance for treatment via fiberoptic surgery, endoscopic surgery, or other appropriate procedures.

Patients with elevated TSH levels should follow medical advice for proper medication and undergo regular follow-up tests for thyroid function and related indicators. If discomfort occurs or if there are abnormal fluctuations in the indicators, prompt medical consultation is advised to adjust the treatment plan.