Thyroid Gland: Characteristics, Issues And Treatment

By Renee Caroll


The butterfly-shaped gland which can be felt in the front of the neck is known as the thyroid gland. This gland makes use of our iodine intake so that thyroid hormones are produced. The hormones play an important role in the regulation of metabolic processes as well as help in other bodily function like growth. The efficiency of hormone production of this gland is controlled by another gland situated in the brain which is called the pituitary gland.

If the thyroid gland is not quite active in production of hormones, this can lead to the health problem called hypothyroidism. The major cause of this problem include postpartum thyroiditis when the gland swells after giving birth, autoimmune thyroiditis, acute thyroiditis and silent one. If the gland functions the opposite as it produces too much amount of hormone, it can also lead to health risk called hyperthyroidism. The major cause of this problem includes grave's disease, toxic multinodular goiter, and too much intake of iodine, toxic nodule and Hashitoxicosis.

The signs and symptoms of the problem known as hypothyroidism widely vary and depend on the severity of the deficiency in hormones. Some experiences mental forgetfulness and fogginess, the feeling of excessive cold, dry skin, fatigue or even prolonged and excessive menstrual bleeding. Hyperthyroidism is also suggested by different symptoms. Generally, it signs of this thyroid problem can include, heat intolerance, excessive sweating, rapid heart rate, weight loss and scant or irregular menstrual flow. Those who only have mild hyperthyroidism or those who are over 70 may not show any sign at all. The signs will become manifest when the condition is already worsen.

There are also thyroid problems which can occur when it is the structure of the gland that is affected. These problems can range from benign and simple cyst to more serious ones like cancer which can either be follicular, papillary, anaplastic or medullary. The enlargement of this gland known as goiter may also form and vary in sizes from less noticeable to huge enough which will need surgical removal. Actual location of this gland may be in an abnormal area because of some abnormalities of people during developmental stage.

There are also signs and symptoms which can be experiences when the structure of this gland has a problem. This may include tracheal or esophagus compression which leads to difficulty in swallowing and breathing. It may even reach the size wherein it becomes very cosmetically unappealing. The increase in size leads to bleeding which can cause local pain. If one has cancer problem in this gland, he may also experience systemic symptoms like change in appetite, night sweats, and weight loss.

Depending on problems being experienced, there are different ways being used to address it. Medications may be used to reduce the hormone production while others inject synthetic hormone to supply the inadequacy. Surgical treatment is done on over enlarge gland as when it compresses the airways. For those who are no longer responding to medication, radioactive ablation is usually being performed. This is also done for those who have certain form of cancer in this gland.




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