Thyroid Gland Overview
Located in the neck, this butterfly-shaped gland secretes hormones crucial for metabolism, growth, and development. Its function is influenced by factors such as iodine intake and immune system activity.
Hormones: T3 and T4
The thyroid produces triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). T4, the most abundant, is a prohormone and needs conversion to T3, the active form, in tissues for metabolic activity.
Regulation Via Feedback Loop
The hypothalamus releases TRH, stimulating the pituitary gland to secrete TSH, which then regulates thyroid hormone production. Disruption in this loop can lead to various thyroid dysfunctions.
Hyperthyroidism Unpacked
Characterized by excessive hormone production, hyperthyroidism accelerates metabolism, often causing weight loss, anxiety, and irregular heartbeat. Graves' disease is a common autoimmune cause.
Hypothyroidism and Symptoms
In contrast, hypothyroidism reflects inadequate hormone levels, leading to fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance. Hashimoto's thyroiditis is the main autoimmune contributor.
Thyroid Cancer Types
Thyroid cancer is relatively rare and has types like papillary and follicular. Exposure to radiation, especially in childhood, increases the risk. It's typically treatable with a high survival rate.
Surprising Thyroid Facts
The thyroid has the highest selenium content per gram of tissue in the body. Interestingly, thyroid conditions can sometimes resolve or improve during pregnancy, due to immune system adaptations.
What shape is the thyroid gland?
Butterfly-shaped
Spherical
Pear-shaped
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