Describe thyroid hormones and disorders.

Thyroid hormones are produced by the thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck. The two main hormones produced by the thyroid gland are thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, growth, and energy levels in the body.

Thyroid disorders occur when the thyroid gland produces either too much or too little thyroid hormone. Some common thyroid disorders include:

1. Hypothyroidism: This occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and depression.

2. Hyperthyroidism: This occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include weight loss, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, and tremors.

3. Thyroid nodules: These are lumps that form in the thyroid gland and can be either benign or cancerous. Thyroid nodules can cause symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, and neck pain.

4. Thyroiditis: This is inflammation of the thyroid gland, which can be caused by autoimmune conditions, viral infections, or medications. Symptoms of thyroiditis include neck pain, fatigue, and weight changes.

Treatment for thyroid disorders depends on the specific condition and may include medication, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery. It is important to see a healthcare provider if you suspect you have a thyroid disorder, as untreated thyroid disorders can lead to serious health complications.

Thyroid Hormones

Thyroid hormones, primarily thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), are produced by the thyroid gland. They play crucial roles in various metabolic processes throughout the body, including:

- Regulating basal metabolic rate (BMR)
- Stimulating protein synthesis
- Enhancing oxygen consumption
- Promoting growth and development in children

Thyroid Disorders

Disorders of the thyroid gland can affect thyroid hormone production, leading to two main categories:

1. Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)

- Characterized by decreased thyroid hormone production
- Causes include:
- Autoimmune disease (Hashimoto's thyroiditis)
- Congenital hypothyroidism
- Iodine deficiency

- Symptoms:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Weight gain
- Cold intolerance
- Dry skin and hair
- Constipation
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Depression

2. Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)

- Characterized by excessive thyroid hormone production
- Causes include:
- Graves' disease (an autoimmune disorder)
- Multinodular goiter
- Thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid gland)

- Symptoms:
- Increased appetite and weight loss
- Heat intolerance
- Rapid heart rate
- Sweating
- Diarrhea
- Tremor
- Anxiety

Diagnosis of Thyroid Disorders

Diagnosis of thyroid disorders involves:

- Medical history and physical examination
- Thyroid function tests (TFTs), which measure thyroid hormones (T3, T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in the blood

Treatment of Thyroid Disorders

Treatment depends on the specific disorder:

Hypothyroidism:
- Thyroid hormone replacement therapy (levothyroxine)

Hyperthyroidism:
- Antithyroid medication (methimazole or propylthiouracil)
- Radioactive iodine therapy
- Surgery (thyroidectomy)