Have You Wondered About Your Thyroid Gland?
Information on how it works and what can go wrong

by Aleena Suryadevara, MD
PersonalMD.Com Medical Contributor

What is the thyroid gland?

The thyroid gland is composed of two separate, but identical lobes. They arelocated in the center of the neck joined in the middle by what is known as the isthmus of the thyroid gland creating a butterfly shape. The gland is situated below the skin and muscle layers.

Its major role is to produce hormones that regulate the body's metabolism. These hormones modulate energy utilization, heat production, and facilitate growth. These hormones, also known as T3 and T4, are referred to collectively as thyroid hormones. When the production of these hormones is below the normal body's needs, the condition is referred to as hypothyroidism. When the production of these hormones is above the normal body's needs, the condition is referred to as hyperthyroidism.

How does diet affect the thyroid gland?

Iodine is an essential component in the proper synthesis of thyroid hormones. Daily recommended intake of Iodine is 150 micrograms/day. People in the United States generally are able to easily meet this requirement because so many foods, including salt, are supplemented with iodine.

What is goiter?

A thyroid goiter is enlargement of the thyroid gland. They lead to problems by sometimes growing so large that they compress adjacent structures including the trachea and esophagus. If the trachea is compressed the individual may have problems breathing while if the esophagus is compressed the individual may have problems eating or swallowing.

What are the symptoms of HYPOthyroidism?

Hypothyroidism occurs when the body is unable to produce enough thyroid hormone. The severity of symptoms depends on the extent of hormone deficiency. People suffering form hypothyroidism usually complain of any of the following: fatigue, weakness, weight changes, dry skin, abnormal menstrual cycles, dry hair, depression or constipation.

What causes HYPOthyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is usually caused by either an autoimmune process or an infection of the thyroid gland. First, the autoimmune process, also known as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, results from damage to the thyroid gland caused by the body's own immune system. An error occurs in the normal functioning of the immune system leading to damage of the thyroid gland that then leads to a decrease in the production of thyroid hormones.

Second, an infection of the thyroid gland by either viruses or bacteria can lead to damage of the hormone producing cells again leading to a deficiency of thyroid hormones. Rarely, certain medical treatments can also cause hypothyroidism. For example, thyroid gland removal for cancer can lead to hypothyroidism because there is no tissue to produce thyroid hormones. Other less common causes include congenital lack of the thyroid gland and iodine deficiency.

What is the treatment for HYPOthyroidism?

First, your doctor must figure out what the cause of this hypothyroidism. Then the usual therapy is to start supplementation with thyroid hormones. The most commonly used medication is Synthroid. Your doctor will also want to follow your thyroid hormone levels periodically to check to see that you are on the right dose of thyroid hormone supplementation. Other treatments target the specific cause that led to the hypothyroidism.

What are the symptoms of HYPERthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the body produces an excess of thyroid hormone. The severity of symptoms again just like with hypothyroidism depends on the extent of hormone excess. Individuals will usually complain of any of the following: nervousness, inability to sleep, palpitations, fatigue, weight changes, irregular menstrual cycle, trembling hands, hair loss, or a staring gaze.

What causes HYPERthyroidism?

Abnormal functioning of the body's immune system can also cause hyperthyroidism. This is also known as Grave's disease. The body produces antibodies that are able to stimulate the thyroid gland to produce more thyroid hormones. Other causes include infections, a malignancy of the thyroid gland, production of thyroid hormones in other parts of the body, or more rarely secret oral ingestion of thyroid hormones.

What is the treatment for HYPERthyroidism?

The doctor again first needs to determine the cause for the hyperthyroidism. Then, depending on the cause and the severity of the disease treatment options include medications, removal of all or a part of the thyroid gland, or radioactive thyroid gland. Most common medications used are methimazole and propylthiouracil that lead to decreased production of thyroid hormones. The side effects of these treatments vary and are a crucial factor in deciding the most appropriate treatment method for the individual.

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