Can stress affect thyroid function test results?

Yes, stress can influence thyroid function test results. High levels of stress hormones, particularly cortisol, can suppress the release of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), leading to lower TSH levels on your test. Chronic stress can also interfere with thyroid hormone conversion, affecting T4 to T3 conversion. It’s essential to manage stress for overall thyroid health. Inform your healthcare provider about significant stressors, as this may help them interpret your thyroid function test results more accurately.