Thyroid

Thyroid is a small butterfly shaped gland located in the 'throat' region, in front of the windpipe. The function of the thyroid gland is to make, store and release thyroid hormones. The hormones produced by the thyroid gland influence almost all the organs, of the body.

Thyroid hormones regulate the body's metabolism too. They have a bearing on the heart rate, cholesterol level, body weight, energy level, muscle strength, skin condition, menstrual regularity, memory function and many other conditions.

If the thyroid gland becomes over active and produces more hormones than are needed by the body the condition is called hyperthroidism.

But, the most common thyroid disorder, which is hypothyroidism, results from an underactive thyroid gland. This results when the thyroid fails to produce enough hormones.

A common sign of hypothyroidism is a lack of energy or feeling of tiredness. Unfortunately, many people attribute their fatigue solely to lifestyle pressures and demands without thinking that there might be a medical reason for it. Other symptoms of hypothyroidism include mood changes, depression, muscle weakness, unexplained weight gain or loss, and persistent hoarseness.

The basic tests include the following

1. Free T3
2. Free T4
3. TSH
4. Thyroid antibodies (optional)