We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process.
Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.
Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:- Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
- Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
- Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?
Testing for health conditions at home is becoming increasingly popular. Here we discuss our favorites from Everlywell, Letsgetchecked, and more.
- Best consultations: LetsGetChecked At-Home Thyroid Tests | Skip to review
- Best membership discounts: Everlywell Thyroid Test | Skip to review
- Best support from thyroid specialists: Paloma Health Complete Thyroid Test | Skip to review
- Best for free shipping: myLAB Box At Home Thyroid Health Screening Test | Skip to review
- Best for detailed results: ZRT Labs Comprehensive Thyroid Profile | Skip to review
At-home thyroid tests typically measure several thyroid hormones, including:
- TSH
- T3
- T4
Some tests also check for thyroid antibodies. The presence of these can indicate the autoimmune disease Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
The results of the test help a person determine whether there is a need to consult a doctor.
Using a testing kit involves taking a finger-prick blood sample, placing the sample in a plastic bag, and returning it to the company in the provided envelope.
Each testing kit has specific instructions, and it is essential to follow these carefully to ensure an accurate result.
Some testing companies also have a doctor review the person’s results. If a person prefers, the company may be able to send the results to their regular doctor.
It is important to note that several things
Examples that affect thyroid hormone levels include:
- pregnancy
- underlying health conditions
- older age
- certain medications, such as opioids, androgens, and estrogen
Biotin supplements can affect the results of a thyroid test.
Why use an at-home test?
At-home testing offers several advantages. These
- convenience
- cost-effectiveness
- quick results
- confidentiality
Do private medical insurance plans cover the costs?
Most private health insurance companies do not cover the costs of at-home testing.
But some at-home test providers accept payments from FSAs or HRAs.
Please note that the writer has not tested these products. All information is research-based and correct at the time of publication.
Below are some at-home thyroid tests from popular testing companies. None of these companies state that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved their thyroid tests.
Learn more about the thyroid’s function here.
Best for detailed results: ZRT Laboratory
The table below compares the different tests in this article.
| Product | Price | Result time | Type of test | Insurance coverage | Tests for antibodies | Medically reviewed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LetsGetChecked | $99 or $119, depending on the test | 2–5 days | finger prick | no | yes | yes |
| EverlyWell | $149 | several days | finger prick | no | yes | yes |
| Paloma | $99 | 7 days | finger prick | tests not covered, appointments covered | yes | yes |
| myLAB Box | $119 | 2–5 days | finger prick | no | yes | yes |
| ZRT Laboratory | $175–319 | 5–7 days | finger prick, dried urine | bills some companies as an out-of-network provider | yes | yes |
Medical News Today’s methodology
Medical News Today selects at-home thyroid tests that meet the following criteria, when possible:
- Ease of ordering: Ordering testing kits, sending samples, and getting results are easy.
- Tests for antibodies: Each test also screens for antibodies to give people a clearer overview of their thyroid health.
- Medically reviewed: Medical professionals such as nurses or doctors review the results and can provide information, though a person should still discuss any positive results with their own doctor.
- Follow-up advice: The testing companies offer additional guidance when a result is positive.
Initial research suggests that at-home tests and telehealth consultations can expand screening for thyroid conditions such as underactive and overactive thyroid.
However, research into the accuracy of at-home tests is limited. The risk of collecting an unusable sample is higher when using an at-home test, so it is important to carefully read and follow any instructions from the manufacturer.
Using companies that analyse samples in CLIA and CAP-certified labs may mean higher accuracy. These labs must meet strict state and federal standards to have certifications.
People may also wish to contact a doctor for help with interpreting the test results. Healthcare professionals may need to order further testing.
Usually, only people with symptoms of an overactive or underactive thyroid will find a test helpful.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism may include:
- fatigue
- extra sensitivity to cold temperatures
- constipation
- weight gain
- irregular or heavy periods
- depression
- a slow heart rate
- joint aches and pains
- a puffy face
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism may include:
- nervousness
- weakness and fatigue
- extra sensitivity to hot temperatures
- problems sleeping
- a hand tremor
- diarrhea
- weight loss
A blood test showing a high level of TSH may indicate someone has hypothyroidism.
Higher levels of TSH and T4 levels in a typical range may mean that a person is at risk of developing hypothyroidism in the future.
People who receive results that show they have low levels of TSH and higher levels of T3 or T4 may suggest they have hyperthyroidism.
However, it is important to discuss any at-home thyroid test results with a healthcare professional to ensure a person is interpreting the results correctly.
Can I check my thyroid levels at home?
Yes, people can check their thyroid levels at home with an at-home test. People will need to collect a sample – usually a finger prick blood sample – and send it off to a laboratory, getting their results within a few working days.
How can I get a thyroid test without going to the doctor?
People can get a thyroid test without going to a doctor by purchasing an at-home test kit/
How can I get the most accurate thyroid test?
The most accurate thyroid tests are ones that measure a person’s hormone and antibody levels and analyze the results in a CLIA or CAP-certified lab.
People should also ensure that the company they use has healthcare professionals review the results.
Does an enlarged thyroid feel like something stuck in the throat?
Sometimes, people may have a lump in their neck from a swollen thyroid. This lump, or goiter, is usually painless and appears on one side of the neck.
People with a goiter may also experience a persistent cough, a hoarse voice, feeling like something is stuck in the throat, and finding it hard to swallow or breathe.
At-home thyroid tests can help people feel more in control of their health. For example, these tests may also be more convenient than visiting a clinic. People can often access their results in a few days and review them with a doctor.
It is essential to discuss any positive result with a healthcare professional and, if necessary, develop a treatment plan.