Thyroid Gland Development And And Its Control Issues

By Carolin Vandehey

Thyroid is the gland which is butterfly in shape and can be found in the neck's front. This works just like a factory which used iodine from the food that we eat for the production of thyroid hormones. The latter helps in regulating the metabolism of the body and also effect other bodily processes and functions such as growth. This rate of the production of hormone is regulated by another gland which is located in our brain and known as the pituitary gland.

If the thyroid gland is not quite active in production of hormones, this can lead to the health problem called hypothyroidism. The major cause of this problem include postpartum thyroiditis when the gland swells after giving birth, autoimmune thyroiditis, acute thyroiditis and silent one. If the gland functions the opposite as it produces too much amount of hormone, it can also lead to health risk called hyperthyroidism. The major cause of this problem includes grave's disease, toxic multinodular goiter, and too much intake of iodine, toxic nodule and Hashitoxicosis.

The signs and symptoms of the problem known as hypothyroidism widely vary and depend on the severity of the deficiency in hormones. Some experiences mental forgetfulness and fogginess, the feeling of excessive cold, dry skin, fatigue or even prolonged and excessive menstrual bleeding. Hyperthyroidism is also suggested by different symptoms. Generally, it signs of this thyroid problem can include, heat intolerance, excessive sweating, rapid heart rate, weight loss and scant or irregular menstrual flow. Those who only have mild hyperthyroidism or those who are over 70 may not show any sign at all. The signs will become manifest when the condition is already worsen.

There are also thyroid problems which can occur when it is the structure of the gland that is affected. These problems can range from benign and simple cyst to more serious ones like cancer which can either be follicular, papillary, anaplastic or medullary. The enlargement of this gland known as goiter may also form and vary in sizes from less noticeable to huge enough which will need surgical removal. Actual location of this gland may be in an abnormal area because of some abnormalities of people during developmental stage.

When the thyroid problem is because of the defect in its structure, one will also experience different sets of signs and symptoms. This can include compression in the esophagus and trachea which makes it difficult to breathe and swallow. Increase in the size of the gland can even lead to bleeding and the person may feel local pain. If one is inflicted with cancer in this gland, he is also likely to experience the common systemic symptoms such as night sweats, lack of appetite and significant weight loss.

Different medical methods are used to address the different thyroid problems. This may include medication to reduce production of hormones or the use of artificial hormones to address hormonal inadequacy. For those experiencing airway compression because of enlargement can undergo surgical treatment. Radioactive ablation is used for those who do not properly respond to the medication given and also those who have cancerous cysts in this gland.

About the Author:

This writer runs a website on thyroid problems which gives people general information on hyperthyroidism and also assists individuals to understand which treatment options to choose. To get more resources visit their website.