A thyroid stimulating hormone ( TSH ) test measures the amount of TSH in the blood . A blood test can measure TSH and help a doctor diagnose a thyroid condition such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. TSH , meaning thyroid stimulating hormone, is an important hormone produced by the pituitary gland. The function of TSH is to let the thyroid know whether it has to produce more or less thyroid hormones. A higher level of TSH in the blood makes the thyroid produce more T3 and T4, while a lower level of TSH makes the thyroid produce less of these hormones. T3 and T4 both give feedback to the pituitary, so that it knows the amount of TSH that needs to be released in the blood . As with any ... A thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) test measures TSH levels in the blood , which can help doctors diagnose thyroid conditions. Learn how TSH levels reflect thyroid function and what factors can influence them. Find out the normal range, causes and effects of high or low TSH , and how to interpret your test results.