DIY Thyroid Metabolism Tests

(1) Barnes Basal Temperature Method

(2) Confirming Clinical Hypothyroidism

(1) Barnes Basal Temperature Method

Developed by Broda O. Barnes, M.D., author of Hypothyroidism: The Unsuspected Illness as long ago as 1942. Not definitive, but provides a good indicator of potential hypothyroidism.

(1)  Obtain a Basal / Fertility Thermometer (accurate to within 0.1 degrees, compared to a standard thermometer which is only accurate to within 0.2 degrees). A digital Basal Thermometer is less than $10 at your local pharmacy.

(2)  Place the thermometer on your nightstand - for immediate access when you wake up in the morning. Do not use an electric blanket.

(3)  Upon awakening place the thermometer snuggly in your armpit - this axillary temperature is more accurate than oral, since it is less affected by sinus and oral infections;

(4)  Make sure you give the thermometer plenty of time to accurately measure your temperature (10 minutes is generally recommended for a basal thermometer - Refer to the instructions that came with your thermometer) - It is important that you don't get out of bed and remain as still as possible until you have read your temperature. (basal temperature reads about 0.5 -1 °F less than oral temperature)

(5)  Take your temperature each morning for 5 days.

•  For women who are menstruating - start on the third day of menstruation (Menstruating can lower basal temperature).

•  For men and postmenopausal women - it makes no difference what day you start.

If your average temperature is :

•  97.8°F - 98.2°F - your thyroid function appears to be normal.

•  Below 97.3°F - suspect a low thyroid metabolism problem, or possibly hypoadrenal function.

Menstruation and illness can elevate temperature

(2) Confirming Clinical Hypothyroidism

(Test normal for T3, T4, TSH, but experiencing hypothyroid symptoms)

Another reliable way to confirm clinical hypothyroidism is to measure your urine temperature for 3 consecutive days

▲  Immediately on rising in the morning, urinate into a Styrofoam cup

▲  Measure urine temp. with an ordinary health thermometer

▲  Continue for 3 consecutive days (if you forget a day, start again).

If the temperature is consistently below 98.6 (usually 97), then you most likely have clinical hypothyroidism.