Thyroid

It’s hard to tell if you have thyroid abnormalities. You might feel run down and tired, or have what is known as “brain fog.” You may be gaining weight, pregnant, or experiencing hair loss. Others may feel “hyper,” anxious, or sweat a lot more than usual. All of these are common symptoms of thyroid disorders. The thyroid gland regulates many processes within the body, and women are particularly likely to have disorders that affect the function of this essential gland. Recognizing and treating Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism is critical for optimum health and preventing long-term health problems.

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.

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 much thyroid hormone is being produced (hyperthyroidism). Hypothyroidism is much more common than hyperthyroidism.

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

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).