What are problems of the thyroid?
Thyroid gland is a soft, butterfly-shaped gland located in front of the neck, just below the Adam’s apple. Thyroid gland needs iodine to produce hormones, T4 and T3, which are essential to regulate metabolic processes in the whole body. The production of thyroid hormones (T4 and T3) is controlled (called feedback mechanism) by brain via pituitary gland, which releases thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH).
Disorders of the thyroid gland adversely affect the body’s structure or function. Thyroid problems are nearly 5-6 times more common in women.
How are thyroid disorders diagnosed?
Your doctor or an endocrinologist may suspect a thyroid disorder on the basis of:
- Signs and symptoms
- A Medical History
- Physical Examination
- Blood tests to detect the levels of T4, T3, and TSH and antibodies.