The thyroid gland is an organ that is at the base of the neck. It produces and releases hormones which will keep your metabolism well and regulate different body functions. Some of those are:
- Skin integrity
- Breathing
- Heart rate
- Body weight
- Body temperature
- Muscle strength
- Central and peripheral nervous system
- Cholesterol level
- Menstrual cycle
How the Thyroid Gland Works
The thyroid is a part of the endocrine system. This system contains glands that produce, store and release hormones in the blood and in this way they allow them to reach the body’s cells. This small gland utilizes the iodine from food sources to produce Triiodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxine (T4).
The hypothalamus produces TSH which is a hormone that signals the pituitary to tell the thyroid to produce less or more of T3 and T4. So, it promotes communication between the two to maintain T3 and T4 balance. So, when both the T3 and T4 levels are low in the blood then the pituitary gland will produce more THS to stimulate the production of thyroid hormones. Moreover, if these levels are high then the pituitary gland will release less TSH to the thyroid and it will slow down the production of thyroid hormones.
The most common thyroid condition is called hypothyroidism, which is a result of too little T3 and T4 in the body. The most common symptoms that accompany this condition are:
- Depression
- Dry skin and hair
- Trouble sleeping
- Sensitivity to cold temperature
- Tiredness and fatigue
- Joint pain
- Frequent, heavy periods
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