Thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland which sits in the lower part of your neck, just in front of the windpipe. It’s main function is to produce thyroid hormones (T4 and T3), in response to a stimulation from the TSH hormone which is secreted by the pituitary gland in the brain. Thyroid hormone is secreted in the blood circulation and carried to every organ in the body. It regulates the rate at which every cell functions which is collectively known as Basal Metabolic Rate(BMR).
There are 3 main problems that can occur in the thyroid:
Hypothyroidism, where the amount of thyroid hormone coming into the circulation is low. This causes the BMR to become low and the body generally slows down leading to weight gain and other symptoms.
Hyperthyroidism, where there is an excess amount of thyroid hormone in the circulation, which increases the BMR. This causes all the bodily functions to pace up causing weight loss and other manifestations.
Thyroid nodules. These are very common and can be present in 12% of the general population. Thyroid nodules are a structural problem and may/may not be associated with a functional problem, i.e abnormal thyroid hormone levels. Almost all thyroid nodules require evaluation.
In most cases, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism and thyroid nodules cannot be prevented. But treatment is easy, if followed up regularly with an endocrinologist.
Join Our Newsletter
To get the latest updates on better diabetes management, subscribe to our newsletter.
