Ulta Lab Tests

Stop the Thyroid Madness (STTM)

Stop the Thyroid Madness (STTM)–style testing focuses on a broader picture of thyroid and whole-body health. Alongside standard labs like TSH and Free T4, many patients track Free T3, consider reverse T3 (rT3) for context, and check autoimmune antibodies. Because fatigue, brain fog, hair loss, and weight changes can come from more than thyroid alone, STTM-inspired panels often include iron/ferritin, vitamin B12, vitamin D, and cortisol pattern testing to spot common “look-alikes.”

Our stance is proactive and balanced: use comprehensive labs to clarify screening, diagnostic triage, and monitoring—then interpret results with your clinician and current medical guidelines. Major endocrine societies do not use rT3 to diagnose hypothyroidism, and “adrenal fatigue” is not a formal diagnosis. Still, many people find value in tracking Free T3, nutrient status, and HPA-axis context while addressing symptoms. Labs complement, not replace, a clinician’s exam, imaging when needed, and urgent care if warning signs appear.

Signs, Symptoms & Related Situations

  • Underactive-leaning clues: fatigue, cold intolerance, weight gain, dry skin, hair loss, constipation, low mood

  • Overactive-leaning clues: anxiety, palpitations, heat intolerance, tremor, weight loss, frequent stools

  • Autoimmune & gland clues: goiter/neck fullness, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, family history of thyroid/autoimmune disease

  • Nutrient & metabolic context: heavy periods or restless legs (iron loss), brain fog/tingling (B12), bone/muscle aches (vitamin D), elevated cholesterol or glucose

  • Medication/exposures: high-dose biotin supplements, amiodarone, lithium, iodine contrast, kelp/iodine products

  • Seek urgent care now: chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting, high fever with confusion, sudden vision changes

Symptoms require evaluation by a qualified clinician.

Why These Tests Matter

What testing can do

  • Confirm thyroid status (hypo-, hyper-, or euthyroid) and identify autoimmunity

  • Highlight contributors that mimic or worsen thyroid symptoms (iron/B12/vitamin D, glucose, lipids)

  • Provide trend data to discuss with your clinician for tailored monitoring

What testing cannot do

  • Diagnose nodules or cancer by blood test alone (ultrasound/biopsy are clinical decisions)

  • Use rT3 to diagnose hypothyroidism per major guidelines; rT3 is context-only and rises in non-thyroidal illness

  • Replace testing for true adrenal disorders (e.g., ACTH stimulation, late-night salivary cortisol for Cushing) or clinician judgment

What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

  • TSH: first-line screen; trends for therapy monitoring (may be less reliable in central hypothyroidism or late pregnancy).

  • Free T4 and Free T3: unbound hormones that reflect biologic activity; some patients track Free T3 closely.

  • Reverse T3 (rT3): context marker that can rise with illness, fasting, or certain medicines; not used by guidelines to diagnose hypothyroidism.

  • Thyroid antibodies: TPOAb and TgAb support Hashimoto thyroiditis context; TRAb/TSI support Graves disease.

  • Nutrient & general health: Ferritin/iron/TIBC, Vitamin B12 ± MMA, Folate, Vitamin D, A1c/glucose, lipids, CMP, CBC.

  • HPA-axis context: 8–9 a.m. serum cortisol ± ACTH; late-night salivary cortisol or 24-hr urinary free cortisolwhen hypercortisolism is suspected.

  • Important prep: high-dose biotin can cause falsely low TSH and falsely high T4/T3—pause 24–48 hours before testing if advised.

Quick Build Guide

Goal / Scenario Start with Add if needed
STTM-style thyroid baseline TSH • Free T4 • Free T3 • TPOAb • TgAb TRAb/TSI if hyper symptoms suggest Graves
Symptoms with normal basics TSH • Free T4 • Free T3 Ferritin/iron • B12 ± MMA • Vitamin D • CMP • A1c • Lipids
Context for rT3 (not diagnostic) Free T4 • Free T3 • rT3 Review for illness, fasting, or meds that skew rT3
Suspected autoimmune thyroiditis TSH • Free T4 • TPOAb (± TgAb) Clinician-directed ultrasound for goiter/nodules
HPA-axis clues (wired/tired, late insomnia) AM cortisol ± ACTH Late-night salivary cortisol (×2) or 24-hr UFC when hypercortisolism is suspected
Pregnancy/trying to conceive TSH (trimester-aware) • Free T4 TPOAb selected; TRAb if Graves present/history
Metabolic & fatigue context CBC • CMP • A1c • Lipids Vitamin D • B12/MMA • Ferritin/iron/TIBC

How the Testing Process Works

  1. Pick your starting set: most begin with TSH + Free T4 + Free T3 and antibodies as indicated.

  2. Prepare for accuracy: share medicines/supplements; pause high-dose biotin 24–48 hours if advised. Fasting is usually not required.

  3. Provide samples: standard blood draw; saliva or 24-hour urine for specific cortisol tests.

  4. View secure results: most post within a few days.

  5. Plan next steps: interpret results with your clinician; consider imaging for nodules/goiter and guideline-directed endocrine testing when needed.

Interpreting Results (General Guidance)

  • High TSH + low Free T4 → overt hypothyroidism; TPOAb supports autoimmunity.

  • Low TSH + high Free T4/T3 → hyperthyroidism; TRAb/TSI supports Graves disease.

  • Normal TSH, low Free T4 → consider central hypothyroidism (pituitary/hypothalamic); needs clinician workup.

  • Elevated rT3 → often reflects non-thyroidal illness, fasting, or certain drugs; not a stand-alone basis to change thyroid therapy.

  • Low ferritin, low iron saturation → iron deficiency pattern; discuss repletion strategy with your clinician.

  • Abnormal cortisol screens → confirm with formal endocrine tests (e.g., ACTH stimulation or dex suppression) before any decisions.
    Always interpret with a qualified healthcare professional; trends and context matter more than one value.

Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

  • Core STTM-style panel: TSH • Free T4 • Free T3 • TPOAb • TgAb (± rT3 for context)

  • Autoimmune/hyper add-on: TRAb/TSI if Graves is suspected

  • Nutrient/metabolic add-ons: Ferritin/iron/TIBC • B12 ± MMA • Folate • Vitamin D • A1c • Lipids • CMP • CBC

  • HPA-axis add-ons: AM Cortisol ± ACTH • Late-night Salivary Cortisol (×2) • 24-hr UFC (per clinician)
    Use bundled panels for efficiency; add single markers to answer targeted questions and track progress.

FAQs

What is STTM?
A patient-led framework that emphasizes Free T3, comprehensive antibodies, and nutrient/HPA-axis context. It is nota medical guideline.

Do major guidelines use reverse T3 to diagnose hypothyroidism?
No. rT3 is not recommended for diagnosis. It may rise with illness or certain drugs and is best viewed as context.

Should I stop biotin before testing?
Yes, if advised. High-dose biotin can distort thyroid results.

Can nutrient testing help my thyroid symptoms?
It can reveal iron, B12, or vitamin D gaps that mimic or worsen fatigue, hair loss, and brain fog.

Is salivary cortisol a test for “adrenal fatigue”?
“Adrenal fatigue” is not a formal diagnosis. Salivary/urine cortisol may screen for true hypercortisolism; low cortisol patterns need ACTH stimulation testing.

Can labs alone change my thyroid dose?
No. Combine labs, symptoms, exam, and guidelines with your clinician before adjusting treatment.

Do I need iodine testing?
Not routinely. Consider only when a clinician suspects abnormal intake or exposure.

Related Categories & Key Tests

  • Thyroid Tests Hub

  • All Thyroid Tests • Hypothyroidism Tests • Hyperthyroidism & Graves Disease Tests • Hashimoto Thyroiditis Tests • Adrenal Stress Tests • Nutrition Tests

  • Key Tests: TSH • Free T4 • Free T3 • Reverse T3 • TPO Antibodies • Thyroglobulin Antibodies • TRAb/TSI • Ferritin • Iron/TIBC • Transferrin Saturation • Vitamin B12 • MMA • Folate • Vitamin D • CBC • CMP • A1c • Lipid Panel • AM Cortisol • ACTH • Late-Night Salivary Cortisol • 24-hr Urinary Free Cortisol

References

  • American Thyroid Association — Guidelines for Hypothyroidism; Hyperthyroidism and Other Causes of Thyrotoxicosis.
  • AACE/ACE — Clinical practice guidelines for hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
  • Endocrine Society — Primary Adrenal Insufficiency; Cushing Syndrome diagnostic guidelines.
  • AACC/NACB — Laboratory support for thyroid disease; biotin interference advisories.
  • NIH Office of Dietary Supplements — Iodine, Selenium, and Vitamin D fact sheets.
  • European Thyroid Association — Position statements on thyroid testing and pregnancy.
  • Stop the Thyroid Madness — Patient advocacy resource (non-guideline; for context only).

Available Tests & Panels

Your STTM-style Thyroid Tests menu is pre-populated in the Ulta Lab Tests system. Start with a core thyroid panel(TSH, Free T4, Free T3, antibodies). Use filters to add reverse T3 (context), nutrient checks (ferritin/iron, B12, vitamin D), metabolic markers (CMP, A1c, lipids), and cortisol options when clinically appropriate. Follow any prep instructions (including biotin pause if advised) and review results with your clinician to align labs with imaging and a monitoring plan.

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The Aldosterone Test measures levels of aldosterone, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that helps regulate blood pressure, sodium, and potassium balance. Abnormal levels may indicate primary aldosteronism, adrenal tumors, kidney disease, or secondary hypertension. Doctors use this blood test to investigate high blood pressure, electrolyte imbalances, or suspected adrenal disorders, helping guide diagnosis, treatment, and long-term patient management.

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Also Known As: Aldosterone Plasma Test
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The Aldosterone and Plasma Renin Activity Ratio Test measures levels of aldosterone and renin to assess adrenal and kidney function. An elevated ratio may indicate primary aldosteronism, a common cause of secondary hypertension. Doctors use this test to evaluate patients with high blood pressure, low potassium, or suspected adrenal disorders. Results help diagnose conditions like Conn’s syndrome, guide treatment, and reduce cardiovascular risks from uncontrolled hypertension.

Also Known As: Aldosterone/Plasma Renin Activity Ratio Test, Aldosterone and Renin Activity Test
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The Ionized Calcium Test measures the biologically active form of calcium in blood, essential for nerve signaling, muscle contraction, and heart function. Unlike total calcium tests, it reflects only free calcium not bound to proteins. Doctors order this test to evaluate parathyroid disorders, kidney disease, cancer, or critical illness. Results help diagnose hypocalcemia or hypercalcemia and guide treatment for electrolyte and metabolic imbalances.

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Also Known As: Ionized Ca Test, Serum Ionized Calcium Test
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The Ceruloplasmin Test measures levels of ceruloplasmin, a copper-carrying protein made in the liver, to evaluate copper metabolism and related disorders. Low levels may indicate Wilson’s disease, Menkes disease, or severe liver disease, while high levels may suggest inflammation or pregnancy. Doctors order this test for patients with liver problems, neurological symptoms, or abnormal copper levels. Results help diagnose metabolic disorders and guide treatment.

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Also Known As: Copper Oxide Test, Wilson’s Disease Test
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The Complete Blood Count with Differential and Platelets Test is a comprehensive blood test that checks red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. The differential analyzes types of white blood cells to detect infections, anemia, clotting abnormalities, immune conditions, and certain cancers. This essential test is often ordered for routine health exams, diagnosis, and monitoring treatment progress.

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Also Known As: CBC Test, CBC with Differential and Platelets Test, CBC w/Diff and Platelets Test, Full Blood Count Test, Complete Blood Count Test
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The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) Test measures 21 markers to assess metabolic health, liver and kidney function, and electrolyte balance. It includes glucose, calcium, sodium, potassium, chloride, CO2, albumin, globulin, A/G ratio, total protein, bilirubin, ALP, AST, ALT, BUN, creatinine, BUN/creatinine ratio, and eGFR. The CMP helps detect diabetes, liver or kidney disease, and supports routine screening and chronic condition monitoring.

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Also Known As: CMP Test, Chemistry Panel Test, Chem Test, Chem 21 Test, Chem 14 Test 
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The Copper Micronutrient Plasma Test measures copper levels in the blood to evaluate nutritional status and detect deficiencies or excess. Copper is essential for red blood cell formation, connective tissue health, energy production, and nervous and immune system function. This test helps identify imbalances from poor diet, malabsorption, or toxicity, supporting diagnosis and management of overall health.

Patient must be 18 years of age or older.
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The Copper Test measures copper levels in blood to evaluate nutritional status, liver function, and metabolic health. Abnormal levels may indicate Wilson’s disease, Menkes disease, liver disorders, or malnutrition. Both deficiency and excess copper can affect nervous system, immune function, and energy metabolism. Doctors use this test to investigate unexplained symptoms, monitor treatment, or assess copper-related disorders, providing key insight into overall health.

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Also Known As: Cu Test, Copper Serum Test, Copper Plasma Test
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The DHEA Sulfate (DHEA-S) Test measures levels of DHEA-S, a hormone made by the adrenal glands, to evaluate adrenal function and hormone balance. It helps detect adrenal tumors, hyperplasia, or insufficiency and assess abnormal hair growth, infertility, or early/late puberty. Doctors also use it to investigate irregular menstrual cycles, monitor androgen disorders, and evaluate symptoms of hormone imbalance affecting reproductive and metabolic health.

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Also Known As: DHEA Sulfate Test, Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate Test
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The Electrolyte Panel Test measures sodium, potassium, chloride, and carbon dioxide in blood to evaluate fluid balance, kidney function, and acid-base status. Abnormal results may indicate dehydration, kidney disease, adrenal disorders, or respiratory issues. Doctors use this test to investigate symptoms such as weakness, confusion, or irregular heartbeat. Results provide essential insight into electrolyte balance, hydration, and overall metabolic and organ health.

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Also Known As: Lytes Panel, Anion Gap Panel, Electrolyte Test, Lytes Test, Anion Gap Test
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The Epstein-Barr Virus Antibody (EBV) Panel detects antibodies to EBV, including VCA IgM, VCA IgG, and EBNA IgG, to determine current, recent, or past infection. EBV causes infectious mononucleosis and has links to chronic fatigue and certain cancers. Doctors order this test for patients with fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, or fatigue. Results help identify stage of infection, confirm diagnosis, and guide clinical management of EBV-related illness.

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Also Known As: EBV Antibody Test, EBV Ab Test, EBV Test, EBV Antibody Panel
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The Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) Early Antigen D IgG Antibody Test detects IgG antibodies to EBV’s early antigen, helping identify recent or reactivated infection. Elevated levels may indicate acute mononucleosis, viral reactivation, or chronic EBV. Doctors order this test when patients present with fatigue, fever, sore throat, or swollen lymph nodes. Results provide key insight into EBV activity, supporting diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment decisions.

Also Known As: EBV Ab to Early Antigen D Test, EA-D IgG Ab Test, EBV EA-D Test
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The Estradiol (E2) Test measures levels of estradiol, the primary form of estrogen, to evaluate reproductive and hormonal health. It helps assess menstrual irregularities, fertility issues, menopause status, and estrogen-producing disorders. In men, it aids in diagnosing hormonal imbalances. Doctors use the estradiol test to monitor hormone therapy, ovarian function, and conditions affecting puberty, bone health, and overall endocrine balance.

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Also Known As: E2 Test, Estrogen 2 Test
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 The Estrogen Dominance Panel for Cycling Women is specifically designed to assess the balance of key hormones in women who are still experiencing menstrual cycles. This panel focuses on the relationship between estradiol and progesterone, two crucial hormones that play significant roles in the menstrual cycle, fertility, and overall health. Understanding the levels and interaction of these hormones can help identify hormonal imbalances that may affect a woman's health and menstrual regularity.
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 The Estrogen Dominance Panel for Non-Cycling Women is designed to evaluate the balance of estrogen and progesterone levels in women who are not menstruating, whether due to menopause, surgical removal of reproductive organs, or other health conditions. This panel is crucial for assessing hormonal status and addressing symptoms related to hormonal imbalances, which can significantly impact a woman's quality of life and overall health.
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The Estrone (E1) Test measures estrone, one of the three main estrogen hormones, to assess reproductive and hormonal health. It helps evaluate ovarian function, menstrual irregularities, menopause status, and estrogen-related disorders. In men, estrone testing may detect hormonal imbalances or excess estrogen. Doctors use this test to monitor hormone therapy, fertility treatments, and conditions affecting bone health, metabolism, and overall endocrine balance.

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Also Known As: E1 Test, Estrogen 1 Test
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The FSH and LH Test measures follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) to evaluate reproductive and endocrine health in both men and women. In women, it helps assess menstrual irregularities, infertility, menopause, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In men, it aids in diagnosing low testosterone, infertility, or testicular dysfunction. Doctors also use this test to investigate puberty disorders, hormone imbalance, and pituitary function.

Also Known As: Follitropin Test, Lutropin Test, Interstitial Cell Stimulating Hormone Test, ICSH Test
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The GGT Test measures gamma-glutamyl transferase, an enzyme found in the liver and bile ducts, to evaluate liver health. Elevated GGT may indicate liver disease, bile duct obstruction, alcohol use, or medication side effects. Doctors order this test to investigate symptoms like fatigue, jaundice, dark urine, or abdominal pain and to monitor liver damage. It is often performed with other liver tests to provide a complete picture of liver and bile duct function.

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Also Known As: Gamma Glutamyl Transferase Test, Gamma Glutamyl TransPeptidase Test, GGTP Test, GTP Test
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The Hair Loss Test measures dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone derived from testosterone linked to male and female pattern baldness. Elevated DHT can shrink hair follicles and cause thinning or hair loss, while abnormal levels may also reflect hormonal imbalance. Doctors order this test for patients with premature hair loss, androgenetic alopecia, or suspected hormone disorders. Results help guide diagnosis, treatment, and targeted therapies for hair and scalp health.

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Also Known As: Dihydrotestosterone Test
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Stop the Thyroid Madness: Lab Tests You Should Know About

More than 20 million people in the United States have some kind of thyroid problem. These issues include a plethora of thyroid conditions, such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, autoimmune diseases, and iodine deficiencies.

The thyroid is a gland in your neck that controls the function of multiple processes around your body. From metabolism to energy, your thyroid does it all.

It's time to stop the thyroid madness. So many people are suffering from endless symptoms because of dysfunctional thyroids. If you think that you may have a thyroid problem, you need to get thyroid function tests.

To learn more about them, keep reading.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Thyroid Problems? 

Most thyroid issues are categorized into two kinds of problems:

  1. Those that cause hyperthyroidism
  2. Those that cause hypothyroidism

Hyperthyroidism describes an overactive thyroid, while hypothyroidism describes an underactive thyroid.

Distinguishing these two conditions is important when considering the symptoms that they cause. Because they are opposites, their signs and symptoms are opposites as well. 

Hyperthyroidism

Here are the common signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid):

  • Anxiety
  • Irritability
  • Nervousness
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Losing weight
  • Muscle weakness
  • Tremors
  • Irregular menstrual periods
  • Absence of menstrual periods
  • Sensitive to heat
  • Vision problems
  • Eye irritation

These signs and symptoms are associated with a thyroid gland that is producing too much thyroid hormone, which leads to an overactive metabolism, which can cause your body to go into overdrive. This explains the hot flashes and weight loss that patients can experience.

Overall, patients with hyperthyroidism will feel like their body is constantly on the go. While this may be great for your energy and weight, it's not healthy for the body to never stop. Eventually, hyperthyroidism will cause problems over time as your body ceases to rest.

Hypothyroidism

Here are the common signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid):

  • Feeling tired despite sleeping enough
  • Gaining weight
  • Forgetfulness
  • More frequent menstrual periods
  • Heavy menstrual periods
  • Dry hair
  • Coarse hair
  • Losing hair
  • Hoarse voice
  • Intolerance to cold temperatures

As we explained, these signs and symptoms are opposite from those of hyperthyroidism.

Patients with hypothyroidism experience slowed body processes, which explains the weight gain and foggy mind. Their thyroids aren't creating enough thyroid hormone to keep their bodies going.

Over time, this can lead to perpetual fatigue and memory problems.

What Are the Stop the Thyroid Madness (STTM) Recommended Lab Tests and Lab Panels?

Those who believe that they may have thyroid issues need to get thyroid blood tests. These tests are the only way to prove that a thyroid problem exists.

At Ulta Lab Tests, we offer the following Stop the Thyroid Madness (STTM) lab tests and panels:

All of these tests may seem overwhelming, but each one is important in determining what kind of thyroid disorder you may have. As we discussed, the thyroid gland controls and regulates each part of your body in some way. So, part of diagnosing a thyroid problem is discovering what kind of problems it's causing throughout your body.

With this information, you and your healthcare provider can properly diagnose and treat your thyroid condition. Furthermore, your healthcare provider can help you find relief from your thyroid condition by locating and treating the right signs and symptoms.

Benefits of Stop the Thyroid Madness (STTM) Recommended Lab Tests and Panels

No matter the kind of thyroid disorder you have, blood tests are the way to diagnose it. In reality, all individuals should be getting thyroid function tests regularly. Your physician tests your thyroid function each year.

However, whether this is the case or not, you may need additional testing. If you're showing signs and symptoms of any thyroid conditions, you could be developing a thyroid problem.

It's also likely that your thyroid problem is causing specific signs in various organ systems throughout your body. For example, you may see manifestations of your thyroid problem on your skin or in your joints.

The right thyroid test results can confirm these signs and symptoms, which also helps your healthcare provider get you the right medications and interventions.

Get Your Thyroid Tests With Ulta Lab Tests

If you think that you could have a thyroid problem, it's time to stop the thyroid madness. Get your thyroid blood tests with Ulta Lab Tests and make sure that your thyroid is functioning correctly.

Ulta Lab Tests offers highly accurate and reliable tests that can help you make more informed decisions about your health. Here are some of the benefits that you'll enjoy by ordering from Ulta Lab Tests:

  • You'll get secure and confidential results
  • You don't need health insurance
  • You don't need a physician's referral
  • You'll get affordable pricing
  • We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee

Order your thyroid lab tests today, and stop the thyroid madness. We'll provide your results securely and confidentially online in 24 to 48 hours for most tests.

Take control of your health with Ulta Lab Tests today!