The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck that has a huge impact on our overall health. It is considered a master gland that helps regulate critical bodily functions.
The thyroid's main job is to manage metabolism - the conversion of oxygen and calories into energy. It does this through hormones like triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). These thyroid hormones circulate through the bloodstream to help control breathing, heart rate, body temperature, digestion, brain development, muscle control and more.
When the thyroid produces too many or too few hormones, you develop a thyroid disorder. There are several different types:
Hypothyroidism
This is when the thyroid gland does not make enough hormones. Common symptoms are fatigue, sluggishness, weight gain, muscle aches, dry skin, brain fog and more. It progresses slowly over months and years. Hashimoto’s disease is the most common cause of hypothyroidism.
Hyperthyroidism
This is when the thyroid is overactive and produces too much T3 and T4 hormones. Some common symptoms are sudden weight loss, racing heartbeat, difficulty sleeping, diarrhea and more. Graves' disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism.
Goiter
A goiter describes an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland. It can be related to iodine deficiency or hyperthyroidism/hypothyroidism. It may cause a swollen sensation, tightness, coughing or difficulty swallowing and breathing.
Thyroid nodules
These are lumps that develop on the thyroid. They can be solid or fluid-filled. Most are benign, but some can be cancerous, so it's important to get them evaluated by an endocrinologist.
Thyroid cancer
This develops when abnormal cancerous cells form a tumor in the thyroid. Treatment depends on the type of tumor, but may include surgery, radioactive iodine therapy, etc.
If you suspect a thyroid issue based on symptoms, I recommend getting comprehensive thyroid blood tests and an ultrasound scan of your neck area. Reach out to reputable clinics like Harmony Hormone Care for personalized care plans to help regulate thyroid hormone levels through medications, diet changes and holistic therapies. They have top experts who can properly diagnose and provide solutions tailored to your unique health needs. I wish you the very best!