The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped, small organ located in the lower part of the front of the neck between the voice box (Adam’s apple) and the top of the breastbone. It lies in front and along the sides of the windpipe, or trachea. The normal thyroid gland is thin, difficult to feel and usually not visible.
Like other glands in the body, the thyroid makes and releases chemicals into the blood stream. These travel to all parts of the body and act as signals to control and coordinate important body functions. Chemicals that work in this way are called hormones. Other examples of hormones are insulin, estrogen and growth hormone.
The thyroid gland releases two major hormones. These are abbreviated T4 and T3 to indicate how many iodine atoms are in each hormone molecule. T3 is the most potent thyroid hormone and it affects almost every organ. For example, the levels thyroid hormone in the blood affect muscle strength, heart rate, fat metabolism, bowel function, energy level, mood and hair growth.
What Problems Can Occur With the Thyroid Gland?
Three types of problems commonly occur with the thyroid gland — underactive thyroid, called hypothyroidism; overactive thyroid, called hyperthyroidism; and enlargement of the gland, called a goiter.
Hypothyroidism – Hypothyroidism is a common condition, occurring in almost 5 percent of the population. It is more common in women and in the elderly. In the United States and most Western nations, hypothyroidism is usually caused by the immune system attacking and damaging the thyroid gland. The cause of the attack is usually not known. Sometimes the thyroid becomes swollen during this condition and a goiter develops. This disease is called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. In many ways, the attack on the thyroid gland is similar to arthritis, in which the immune system attacks the joints. However, there is usually no pain associated with thyroiditis and hypothyroidism, whereas the swollen joints of an arthritis sufferer are very uncomfortable.
Hyperthyroidism – Hyperthyroidism most commonly occurs in women between the ages of 20 and 50. An overactive thyroid is also usually caused by the immune system attacking the gland. This disease is called Graves’ disease. Unlike hypothyroidism (where the immune system damages the thyroid gland), in Graves’ disease the immune system stimulates the thyroid gland, causes it to enlarge and drives it into an overactive state that usually lasts several months or years. There is usually no pain in the thyroid gland. In most cases, it is uncertain what triggers this immune system attack. However, some individuals seem predisposed to this disease because thyroid problems run in their family. In addition, some individuals report the onset of Graves’ disease during periods of stress, which is known to affect immune system function.
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