What is a thyroid?
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland, located just above the collarbones, that is responsible for secreting thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones regulate the metabolic rate of the body, heart rate, brain development, bone health, digestive, and muscle function. As long as the thyroid gland receives the optimum supply of iodine from the diet, it functions correctly. The moment its iodine-receiving ratio disturbs, several problems concerning the production of thyroid hormones arise, out of which hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are the most encountered ones.
Symptoms of HyperThyroidism
- Weight loss
- Increased heart rate
- Nervousness
- Irritability
- Tremors
- Muscle weakness
- Sleep disturbance
- Irregular menstrual bleeding
- Heat sensitivity
- Irritation in eyes
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
- Weight gain
- Decreased heart rate
- Fatigue
- Dry skin
- Forgetfulness
- Hoarse voice
- More frequent and heavy menstrual bleeding
- Can lead to goitre