While most iodine solutions have an orange tint, some are clear. Be sure to buy an orange solution so that it shows up on your skin. You may need to ask for it at the counter since iodine is sometimes kept behind the counter or in a glass case.
If you do not want to put the iodine on your forearm, you could also put it on your abdomen or inner thigh. Be sure to let the iodine dry for at least 20 minutes before covering it or letting it touch anything since it will stain.
If the patch disappears or fades significantly over 24 hours, you may have a minor to moderate iodine deficiency If the patch disappears in under 18 hours, you may have a moderate to severe iodine deficiency.
Depending on the severity of your symptoms, you may want to consult with your doctor even if your test didn’t indicate a deficiency. Especially if you notice you have an enlarged thyroid, it’s time to make an appointment with your doctor. Blood or urine tests for iodine are both more accurate.
Blood tests for iodine are the most accurate, but take longer to get the results. [6] X Research source Before the day of your test, talk to your doctor about any medications you are currently taking. Iodine blood tests typically don’t have a fasting requirement. Your doctor may order multiple tests for one appointment, though, so check with them to see if you need to fast prior to testing.
For an iodine test by itself, you will generally only have one vacutainer tube taken.
If you do have lower iodine levels, your doctor may request a follow-up appointment to discuss treatment plans. Even if you get a blood test, you will still need the assessment of a doctor to determine if you actually have iodine deficiency. [8] X Research source
If you are collecting one sample, you may only need to pee in one cup. If you are collecting multiple samples, you will generally use sterile cups to collect the urine, then pour it into your collection container. If you are collecting samples for a 24 hour period, be sure to collect the first urine after you wake up the next day, too.
Most people excrete the majority of the iodine they take in during a day. If you have an iodine deficiency, though, you will absorb more. The lower the iodine in your urine, the more of a deficiency you have. [12] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Your doctor will be able to talk to you about your symptoms and how they relate to your results. If you do have an iodine deficiency, they can help you come up with a management plan. Even if you get a urine test, you will still need the assessment of a doctor to determine if you actually have iodine deficiency. [13] X Research source
