Learning More: The Thyroid Gland

The thyroid is an essential gland positioned below the muscles at the front part of the neck. The hormones that it produces are important in nurturing growth and metabolism.

The thyroid gland necessitates iodine, an essential chemical element, to fully do its functions. It combines the iodine with an essential amino acid known as tyrosine to manufacture the said hormones. These hormones travel through the bloodstream to the cells of the body, and they are important in the growth of our bones' structures.    

In addition, thyroid hormones have a direct impact on how most body organs function. This is why people who have an inflamed thyroid gland may likely experience problems in other parts of their body, too.  

The thyroid could experience several ailments. The most common of these include hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and thyroid nodules. The first two conditions results from either excess or shortage in hormones produced, while the last has to do with the presence of neoplasms or benign tumors. An individual with an unusually large thyroid (called goiter), is most likely suffering from one of these ailments.

Thyroiditis, on the other hand, pertains to condition that occurs when the thyroid gland gets inflamed. It can also be considered as an umbrella term for a group of disorders all causing soreness of the thyroid gland. This ailment has several types, with the Hashimoto’s disease being the most common. Other types include subacute granulomatous, postpartum, subacute lymphocytic, and acute thyroiditis.

There are kinds of bacteria and virus that can cause thyroiditis. Drugs or an antibody attack are other possible causes of this condition. Symptoms are feelings of anxiety, depression, reflexes that become slow, skin that is cool and dry, and eye swelling.

The best advice for a person who is exhibiting these symptoms is to have a medical check up immediately. An Ear, Nose, Throat specialist (ENT) is qualified to conduct physical exams to find out if a person has developed a thyroid disorder.