The thyroid gland is an endocrine gland located in the middle part of the neck. It is situated just below the hard protrusion in the neck called the Adam's apple. It has a butterfly-shaped structure. Its wing-shaped right and left sections are positioned alongside the windpipe. Both parts are connected by a section called the isthmus. Sometimes, a part called the pyramidal lobe, located slightly higher, can also become prominent.

The thyroid gland secretes thyroid hormones called T3 and T4 into our body. Thyroid hormones are very important hormones for our body. The regulation of our metabolism is largely maintained by thyroid hormones. It directly affects heart rate, cholesterol levels, body weight, muscle strength, memory function, skin structure, and many other functions.

If thyroid hormones are not secreted at sufficient levels for various reasons, a condition called hypothyroidism, or thyroid hormone deficiency, occurs. In this case, all of these functions decrease. If thyroid hormones are secreted much more than normal for various reasons, a condition called hyperthyroidism, commonly referred to as toxic goiter, occurs. In this case, all the functions mentioned above increase and harm our body.

The level of thyroid hormones in the blood is regulated by a hormone called thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), secreted by organs in the brain. When thyroid hormone levels in the blood decrease, TSH secretion increases, or conversely, when thyroid hormone levels in the blood increase, TSH secretion decreases.

Hypothyroidism Symptoms

  • Depression
  • Weight gain
  • Dry skin
  • Slowing of heart rate
  • Intolerance to cold
  • Forgetfulness
  • Mental sluggishness
  • Constipation
  • Fatigue
  • Disruption in menstrual periods and increase in bleeding amount
  • Muscle weakness and cramps

Hyperthyroidism Symptoms

  • Depression
  • Increase in heart rate
  • Irritability
  • Weight loss
  • Intolerance to heat
  • Increased sweating
  • Trembling hands
  • Fatigue
  • Anxiety
  • Sleep disorder
  • Disruption in menstrual periods and decrease in bleeding amount