Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment Of Thyroid

 A ductless gland in the neck which secretes hormones regulating growth and development through the rate of metabolism. Its correct functioning depends on having a good supply of Iodine from the Diet. Thyroid disorders are the conditions that affect the Thyroid gland. A butterfly-shaped Gland in front of the neck, it has important roles to regulate numerous metabolic processes through out the body. Different types of thyroid disorders affect either its structure or function.

Thyroid gland is located below the Adam's apple wrapped around Trachea (windpipe). A thin area of Tissue in the gland middle, known as Isthmus, joins the two lobes on each side. Thyroid uses Iodine to produce vital hormones. Thyroxine (T4) is the primary hormone produced by the gland. After delivery via the blood stream to the body's tissues, a small portion of T4 released from the gland is converted to T3 (Triiodothyronine) which is the most active hormone. The function of Thyroid gland is regulated by a feedback mechanism involving the Brain. When Thyroid hormone levels are low, the Hypothalamus in the Brain produces a hormone known as Thyrotropin Releasing Hormone (TRH) that causes the Pituitary gland (located at the base of the brain) to release Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH). TSH stimulates the Thyroid gland to release more T4. Since Thyroid Gland is controlled by Pituitary Gland and Hypothalamus, disorders of these tissues can also effect Thyroid function and cause Thyroid problems.

Following are the specific types of Thyroid disorders -
1) Hypothyroidism - Results from Thyroid gland producing insufficient amount of thyroid hormone.
    Can develop from problems within the Thyroid gland, Pituitary gland, or Hypothalamus.
    Symptoms include  - Fatigue, Dry skin, constipation, Depression, Feeling cold, Poor concentration
    or feeling mentally 'Foggy', Fluid retention, Muscle and Joint aches, Prolonged bleeding (Women).
2) Hyperthyroidism- Due to excessive production of Thyroid hormone. Symptoms include - Tremor,
    Fast Heart rate, Fatigue, Nervousness, increased sweating, intolerance of heat, Increased bowel
    movements, Unintentional weight loss.
3) Goiter - Due to enlargement of Thyroid gland, Regardless of cause. Not a specific disease. May be
     associated with Hypo, Hyper or Normal Thyroid functions.
4) Thyroid Nodules - Lumps or abnormal masses caused by benign cysts. May be single or multiple
     and can vary in size.  
5) Thyroid cancer - More common in adult women than men or youth. There are different kinds of
     cancer, depending upon the specific cell type within the Thyroid that has become cancerous.
     Most cases have a good prognosis and high survival rates, especially when diagnosed in early
    stages.    

When Thyroid function slow during stress, Triiodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxine (T4) hormone levels fall. Chronic stress can cause problems in the body for years before Lab tests show a problem. All the while, you may experience Hypothyroid symptoms such as Fatigue or Weight gain.


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