The Thyroid Gland
The thyroid glands are located in a person’s neck and take the shape of a butterfly, with two symmetrical lobes. The thyroid acts by producing a number of hormones that are used by different organs in various functions of the body. It is one of the largest organs within a body’s endocrine system and is the only organ which contains cells that have the ability to absorb iodine. Secretions from both the hypothalamus and pituitary glands are how the thyroid is stimulated to produce hormones. A problem with hormone production can cause an enlarged thyroid gland or it could be the result of a tumor within the organ.
Proper thyroid gland function is essential to the health of a person. The hormones produced by the gland are responsible for regulating metabolism and subtle changes in the levels of these hormones can result in major changes to all aspect of the body. The first and most obvious change that is noticed by sufferers of thyroid conditions is an abrupt change in weight. This can be represented as either a gain or loss of weight depending on whether there is too much or too little hormones within the blood stream. The T3 and T4 hormones have also been connected to regulation of the brain chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine. In these cases, thyroid gland function can be related to both depression and increased anxiety levels or panic attacks.
Thyroid diseases can be noticed by the appearance of various symptoms such as a swollen thyroid gland or joint and muscle aches. The most common conditions are either hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. In hypothyroidism, the gland is not producing enough of the hormones and in hyperthyroidism, there is an overabundance of the hormones. Hyperthyroidism may be caused by a more serious issue such as Graves’ disease or other conditions that can result in the development of a goiter in serious cases. Thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism and can take many forms, including Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. For a woman, these conditions can take form in the heaviness and frequency of monthly menstruation. A woman who experiences changes in this cycle should check for a swollen thyroid gland as this could be the source of the changes.
After visiting a local doctor, many treatment options are available to people who suffer from a thyroid condition. The doctor may perform special tests and check for an enlarged thyroid gland as this can be a sign of thyroid cancer. In cases of hyperthyroidism, there are certain medications that effectively block the synthesis of hormones, thus providing a return to normality. Hormone supplements can be taken when there is a deficiency and are available by prescription. When thyroid cancer is the underlying issue, an operation may be needed to remove the gland. Patients who have their thyroid removed will need to continue taking hormone supplements to replace the missing hormones. In severe cases, the thyroid glands as well as lymph nodes may need to be removed.