The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland located in the front of the neck, responsible for producing thyroid hormones—mainly thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones regulate the body’s metabolism, growth, development, and energy balance. The gland’s function is controlled by the pituitary hormone called thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Disorders of the thyroid gland can lead to either overproduction (hyperthyroidism) or underproduction (hypothyroidism) of thyroid hormones, each causing a distinct set of clinical symptoms.
Hyperthyroidism results from excessive thyroid hormone levels, commonly caused by Graves’ disease, toxic multinodular goiter, or thyroiditis. It presents with symptoms such as weight loss, heat intolerance, tremors, palpitations, and anxiety. Hypothyroidism, on the other hand, occurs due to insufficient hormone production
It is often caused by Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, iodine deficiency, or thyroidectomy, leading to fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, and depression. Other thyroid conditions include goiter (enlarged thyroid), thyroid nodules, and thyroid cancer. Diagnosis is primarily through clinical assessment and measurement of serum TSH and thyroid hormone levels. Treatment depends on the underlying condition and may include antithyroid drugs, hormone replacement therapy, radioactive iodine, or surgery.
- Hyperthyroidism (Graves’ disease, toxic goiter)
- Hypothyroidism (Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, iodine deficiency)
- Goiter (diffuse or nodular)
- Thyroid nodules (benign or malignant)
