The Thyroid Gland

The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped endocrine gland located in the front of
the neck. It plays a crucial role in regulating the body's metabolism and overall
physiological functions.

Ka
by K Mahalakshmi
Thyroid Gland Location and Size
Location Size Appearance

The thyroid gland is located in the The average adult thyroid gland is It has a distinctive butterfly shape,
front of the neck, just below the about 2 inches long, 1 inch wide, with two lobes connected by a
larynx (voice box). and weighs less than an ounce. narrow isthmus.
Functions of the Thyroid Gland
1 Metabolic Regulation 2 Growth and
The thyroid gland produces
hormones that control the
body's metabolism,
including heart rate, body
temperature, and energy
levels.
3 Hormone Synthesis
Development
The thyroid gland
Thyroid hormones are synthesizes and secretes two
essential for proper growth main hormones: thyroxine
and development, especially (T4) and triiodothyronine
in children and adolescents. (T3).
Thyroid Hormones and Their Role
Thyroxine (T4) Triiodothyronine (T3) Regulation

T4 is the primary hormone T3 is a more potent and active Thyroid hormone production is
produced by the thyroid gland. It form of thyroid hormone. It has a regulated by the pituitary gland,
helps regulate metabolism, body stronger effect on target tissues. which secretes thyroid-stimulating
temperature, and heart rate. hormone (TSH).
Common Thyroid Disorders
Hypothyroidism Hyperthyroidism
Underactive thyroid, resulting in low thyroid Overactive thyroid, resulting in excessive thyroid
hormone production. hormone production.

Thyroid Nodules Thyroid Cancer

Abnormal growths or lumps in the thyroid gland. Malignant growths in the thyroid gland.
Hypothyroidism
Symptoms 1
Fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance,
depression, and slow heart rate.
2 Causes
Autoimmune disorders, iodine deficiency,
radiation exposure, and certain medications.
Treatment 3
Thyroid hormone replacement therapy,
usually with synthetic levothyroxine.
Hyperthyroidism
Symptoms
Increased heart rate, anxiety, weight loss, sweating, and tremors.

Causes
Autoimmune disorders, toxic nodular goiter, and certain medications.

Treatment
Anti-thyroid medications, radioactive iodine therapy, or thyroid surgery.
Diagnosis and Treatment

Blood Tests Imaging Tests Treatment Options Specialist Care

Measure thyroid Ultrasound, CT scans, Endocrinologists are
hormone and TSH levels and nuclear scans can Medications, radioactive physicians who
to diagnose thyroid help identify thyroid iodine, and surgery are specialize in thyroid and
disorders. abnormalities. used to manage thyroid hormonal disorders.
conditions.