Thursday 26 January 2017

Thyroid Problems – Hypothyroidism What Is Thyroid Gland?



The thyroid gland is located in front of the neck.

It has right and left lobes that confer a butterfly-shaped appearance.

The hormones produced by this gland control the body’s metabolism, or the processes by which the body uses energy.

Disorders that affect thyroid function can either speed up or slow down metabolic processes, which can lead to a wide range of symptoms.
It is a butterfly-shaped gland that sits low on the front of the neck.

Your thyroid lies below your Adam’s apple, along the front of the windpipe.

 The thyroid has two side lobes, connected by a bridge (isthmus) in the middle.

When the thyroid is its normal size, you can’t feel it.
Brownish-red in color, the thyroid is rich with blood vessels.

Nerves important for voice quality also pass through the thyroid.
The thyroid secretes several hormones, collectively called thyroid hormones.

 The main hormone is thyroxin, also called T4.

Thyroid hormones act throughout the body, influencing metabolism, growth and development, and body temperature.

During infancy and childhood, adequate thyroid hormone is crucial for brain development.

What are signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism?

Symptoms and signs of hypothyroidism and their degree of severity may vary and depend on the duration and extent of thyroid hormone deficiency.

Individuals with hypothyroidism may experience:
  • Fatigue
  • Weakness
  • Muscle aching and cramps
  • Constipation
  • Weight gain or difficulty losing weight

Symptom: Losing or Gaining Weight

Changes in weight can signal an abnormal function of the thyroid gland.

Low levels of thyroid hormones (hypothyroidism) can cause weight gain, while unexpected weight loss can signal that too many thyroid hormones are being produced (hyperthyroidism).

 Hypothyroidism is much more common than hyperthyroidism.

Symptom: Swollen Neck

A goiter is an enlargement of the thyroid gland, As shown here; an enlarged thyroid can be seen as a swelling in the front of the neck.

A goiter can occur both as a result of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.

 It can sometimes also result from tumors or nodules that develop within the thyroid gland.

Symptom: Changes in Heart Rate

The hormones made in the thyroid gland affect almost every organ in the body, including the heart.

 Hypothyroidism can cause the heart to beat more slowly while hyperthyroidism causes a fast heartbeat.

Elevated levels of thyroid hormones also can lead to increases in blood pressure and the sense that your heart is pounding (palpitations).

Symptom: Changes in Mood or Energy

Thyroid disorders can affect emotions, energy, and mood.

 Hypothyroidism can cause symptoms like depression, tiredness, and feeling sluggish.

Hyperthyroidism is associated with sleep disturbances, irritability, anxiety, and restlessness.
Symptom: Hair Loss
Hair loss is a common sign of a thyroid problem.

 Both too high and too low levels of thyroid hormones can lead to hair loss.

The hair typically grows back once the condition is treated.
Symptom: Body Temperature Too Cold or Hot
The thyroid affects regulation of body temperature, So, those with hypothyroidism often report feeling cold.

In contrast, people with hyperthyroidism tend to have excessive sweating and an aversion to heat.
Other Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
Other symptoms and signs of hypothyroidism include:
  • Constipation
  • Changes or abnormalities in the menstrual cycle
  • Dry skin and brittle nails
  • Tingling and numbness in the hands or fingers
  • Problems with vision
  • Diarrhea
  • Irregularities in the menstrual cycle
  • Trembling hands
  • Muscle weakness
                                         Rest in other parts.
                                                   End.

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