What Does Your Thyroid Do?

Your thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your neck that makes and releases certain hormones. Its main job is to control your metabolism, which is how your body uses energy. Sometimes the thyroid doesn’t work as it should. This can lead to an overactive (hyper) or underactive (hypo) thyroid. Both conditions are treatable.

The thyroid gland makes two primary hormones – T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine). They are released into the bloodstream and carried to every tissue in the body, affecting almost every organ system. They help the body use energy, regulate your temperature, and keep the brain, heart, gut and other organs working properly, including your reproductive organs.

Sometimes, the thyroid doesn’t function as it should.

What is Hypothyroidism?

When your thyroid doesn’t make enough hormones, the condition is called hypothyroidism.   Also known as an underactive thyroid, hypothyroidism causes many of the body’s functions to slow down. If your thyroid is sluggish, you might gain weight, or feel cold, tired or depressed. You might also experience constipation, dry or thinning hair, a hoarse voice or puffy face.

Common causes are autoimmune disease (Hashimoto’s thyroiditis),  radiation treatment, some medications, surgical removal of the gland, a brain injury, pregnancy and low levels of iodine in the diet.

Women are at a higher risk for hypothyroidism than men. They may experience irregular menstrual cycles and issues with fertility.

The condition is treated by replacing the amount of hormone that your thyroid can no longer make. This will bring your thyroid hormone levels back to normal so the body can function properly.

What is Hyperthyroidism?

Sometimes, the thyroid makes too much T3 and T4 hormones. People who suffer from this form of the disease may experience weight loss, hand tremors, dry skin, a rapid heartbeat, mood swings and anxiety.

It can be caused by Graves’ Disease, lumps or nodules on the thyroid and pregnancy. Hyperthyroidism is treated with medications that stop the gland from making too much T3 and T4. Beta blockers may also be prescribed to treat some of the symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat.

If you think you may have a thyroid problem, talk with your doctor. Being proactive about your health can make a big difference in your quality of life.

Sources: Hypothyroidism,  American Thyroid Association, 2022; Hashimoto’s Disease,  Mayo Clinic, 2022; Hypothyroidism,  Mayo Clinic, 2022 Hyperthyroidism,  Mayo Clinic, 2022; Hyperthyroidism Diagnosis and Treatment,   Mayo Clinic, 2022; Thyroid,  Cleveland Clinic, 2022