You've probably heard more about this gland lately because several celebrities have been open with the public about their own thyroid issues. Gigi Hadid, Sofia Vergara, Zoe Saldana, Leona Lewis and Bernie Sanders have all shared their symptoms, which are more common than you'd think.
The American Thyroid Association (ATA) estimates that around 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid disease. The cause of thyroid problems is unknown, but science has shown that the function of the thyroid gland is extremely important as a hormone-producing gland. About one in eight women will develop thyroid problems during their lifetime.
Where Is the Thyroid Located?
Your thyroid is found at the front of your neck right below the voice box. The gland is often described as butterfly-shaped whose two lobes on either side, lie against and around the windpipe. The pituitary gland, a part of the brain, guides the thyroid gland in working together to maintain a balanced system.
What Is the Function of the Thyroid Gland?
The thyroid controls many functions in the body for metabolism, growth and development. To regulate these actions, the thyroid will release a continuous amount of thyroid hormones into the bloodstream.
Your thyroid will control how your body uses this energy to stay warm, burn calories and much more.
The T3 and T4 Hormones
Thyroid hormone function is essential for the human body at every age. The thyroid gland makes and releases two key thyroid hormones: triiodothyronine (T3) and tetraiodothyronine, also known as thyroxine (T4). T3 and T4 affect every cell and all the organs in your body.
There are moments when your body needs more thyroid hormones and moments when it needs less. That's when the pituitary gland goes into action to regulate the process. However, sometimes, the thyroid gland develops imbalances and throws everything off.
Hyperthyroidism is an overactive thyroid that makes too many hormones, while hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid that doesn't make enough hormones.
Stress, an unhealthy lifestyle and an unhealthy diet can trigger thyroid gland issues.
Are Your Feeling Excess Fatigue?
Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism have their own set of symptoms, but both conditions share excessive fatigue.
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:
● Heat intolerance
● Irregular heartbeat
● Tremors
● Anxiety
● Insomnia
● Weight loss, despite increased appetite
Symptoms of hypothyroidism include:
● Constipation
● Hair thinning or hair loss
● Lethargy
● Puffiness in the face or legs
● Cold intolerance
● Dry skin
The Value of the TSH Blood Test
Endocrinologists say the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) blood test is the best type to screen for thyroid dysfunction. It can accurately assess overall thyroid function.
A sample of your blood will be taken and sent to a lab for testing, and you don't have to fast before the test. The good news is that treatment and medication can correct your thyroid hormone and TSH levels to restore proper thyroid gland function.
Up to 60% of those with thyroid disease are unaware of their condition, so it's important to seek medical advice if you're experiencing fatigue or any other physical issues. Thyroid problems are quite common, and you are certainly not alone.
There are many online articles and home remedy treatments for thyroid conditions. However, don't go it alone trying to manage your symptoms. There are multiple myths online about thyroid function and how to cure it. Always seek medical advice before starting supplements, etc.
