31-03-2017, 03:59 PM
Thyroid disorders are conditions that affect the thyroid gland, a gland-shaped butterfly on the front of the neck. The thyroid has important roles in regulating numerous metabolic processes throughout the body. Different types of thyroid disorders affect your structure or function. The thyroid gland is located beneath the Adam's apple wrapped around the trachea (trachea). A thin tissue area in the center of the gland, known as the isthmus, joins the two thyroid lobes on each side. The thyroid uses iodine to produce vital hormones. Thyroxine, also known as T4, is the primary hormone produced by the gland. After delivery through the bloodstream to body tissues, a small portion of T4 released from the gland becomes triiodothyronine (T3), which is the most active hormone. The function of the thyroid gland is regulated by a feedback mechanism that involves the brain. When thyroid hormone levels are low, the hypothalamus in the brain produces a hormone called thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) that causes the pituitary gland (located at the base of the brain) to release thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to release more T4. Since the thyroid gland is controlled by the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus, disorders of these tissues can also affect thyroid function and cause thyroid problems.
Thyroid treatment
Hypothyroidism is treated by administering thyroid replacement drugs. Hyperthyroidism is treated by reducing the excess hormone levels by administering drugs to the thyroid gland or by treatment with radioiodine (radioiodine ablation) or by surgical treatment (complete or partial thyroid removal) called thyroidectomy.
Hypothyroidism is treated by administering thyroid replacement drugs. Hyperthyroidism is treated by reducing the excess hormone levels by administering drugs to the thyroid gland or by treatment with radioiodine (radioiodine ablation) or by surgical treatment (complete or partial thyroid removal) called thyroidectomy.
Thyroid test
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck, which is involved in the production of thyroid hormones. Thyroid tests involve series of blood tests used to measure the function of the thyroid gland. Blood tests used to measure TSH, T4, T3 and free T4 are readily available and widely used.