So what exactly is the thyroid? The thyroid gland is actually an endocrine gland located in the neck. It produces two hormones that are released into the bloodstream: thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones are required for all of your body’s cells to function appropriately. The thyroid gland produces thyroid hormones, which is positioned in the front of the neck just behind Adam’s apple. The thyroid has two lobes, the left and right of which are roughly equal in size to a plum divided in half, and the isthmus, a brief bridge of thyroid tissue, connects them. The two lobes are located on opposite sides of your windpipe.
What Does the Thyroid Affect?
Your thyroid regulates your metabolism by releasing and controlling thyroid hormones. The process through which food consumed by your body is transformed into energy is known as metabolism. Your body uses this energy to keep many of its systems running smoothly. In order to maintain a regular metabolic rate, your thyroid must be operating properly in order to create the necessary hormones. As the body’s natural supply of hormones diminishes, the thyroid responds by making new hormones.
All of this is controlled by the pituitary gland. Blood levels of thyroid hormone are monitored and controlled by your pituitary gland, which is located at the center of your skull, underneath your brain. A decrease in thyroid hormone levels or an increase in levels detected by the pituitary gland will be corrected by the gland’s own hormone. Known as TSH, this hormone stimulates the thyroid gland. You can expect the thyroid to get a message from your TSH, which tells it what you need to do to return your body to normal.
As a result, the thyroid will be informed of what it has to perform to return the body to a state of normalcy.
What Factors Contribute to Thyroid Disease?
Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are the two common forms of thyroid disease.
Other disorders that affect the thyroid gland’s function can induce both problems.
Hypothyroidism can be occurred by a variety of conditions, including:
- Thyroiditis: It is an inflammation (swelling) of the thyroid gland that can reduce the number of hormones produced by your thyroid.
- Hashimoto’s thyroiditis: An asymptomatic condition in which the body’s cells attack and damage the thyroid. This is a hereditary disorder.
- Iodine deficiency: The thyroid utilizes iodine to create hormones. Iodine deficiency affects millions of individuals globally.
Hyperthyroidism can be occurred by the following conditions, including:
- Graves’ disease: In this condition, the entire thyroid gland may be hyperactive and release an excessive amount of hormone.
- Nodules: Hyperthyroidism can be caused by hyperactive thyroid nodules.
- Thyroiditis: This condition might be unpleasant or not felt at all. Thyroiditis leads the thyroid to release hormones that have been stored.
- Excessive iodine: The thyroid overproduces thyroid hormones when there is an excess of iodine in the body.
The Key Takeaway
The thyroid gland is essentially responsible for our bodies to maintain a healthy metabolic rate and brain and bone development. Thyroid disease is often a life-long medical issue that must be regularly managed. Consequently, if you feel unwell, see your doctor and have your hormone levels evaluated in order to avoid developing thyroid disease.
Disclaimer: None of the information posted is intended as medical, legal, or business advice, or advice about reimbursement for health care services.
