Part of the endocrine system, the thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland that plays an important role in your body. This gland releases hormones to help regulate bodily functions, including body temperature, digestion, fertility, metabolism and more. When it’s out of whack, it can cause issues throughout your body. About 20 million people in the U.S. have some type of thyroid issue, but it’s more common in women, affecting 1 in 8 in the U.S.

This gland is at the front of your throat, just above your collarbones. It’s small, about the size of two thumbs in a V shape. The hormones your thyroid releases rely on iodine from your bloodstream for production. If you have too much iodine or too little iodine in your system, it can affect thyroid hormone production. If the hormone levels get too high or too low, it can cause various problems.

Hypo or Hyper?

Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are two of the most common thyroid disorders.

Hypothyroidism stands for an underactive thyroid gland. When the thyroid isn’t producing enough hormones to meet your body’s needs, your body’s systems start to slow down. This condition affects about 10 million people in the U.S. and is about nine times more common in women than men.

Hypothyroidism causes many symptoms, some more obvious than others, including:

• Chronic fatigue
• Constipation
• Dry skin
• Muscle aches and weakness
• Thinning hair
• Unexplained weight gain

Hyperthyroidism stands for an overactive thyroid gland. When the thyroid is producing more hormones than your body needs, your body’s systems kick into high gear. This condition affects about 1 in 100 people over the age of 12 in the U.S.

Hyperthyroidism sometimes seems like other health conditions, making it difficult to diagnose. It can cause numerous symptoms, including:

• Anxiety, irritability and nervousness
• Excessive sweating
• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Frequent bowel movements
• Sleep troubles
• Unexplained weight loss

Check It Out

Nearly 60% of people who have a thyroid condition don’t know it. If you are having trouble controlling your emotions, energy level and weight, talk with your primary care doctor to see if it could be related to your thyroid. Your PCP can check the health of your thyroid with a blood test. If your lab results are abnormal, your doctor may order specific thyroid blood tests or suggest a thyroid ultrasound.

Gland Giddy Up

There are several options to treat a thyroid issue. Sometimes diet and lifestyle changes can help with symptoms, but not always. If you’re struggling to improve your symptoms, your doctor can refer you to an endocrinologist for treatment. Medical and surgical treatment options include:

• Medication
• Radiation therapy
• Surgery

If you think you may have hormone issues or issues with your thyroid gland, speak with your primary care doctor so you can get tested. Find a Meritas Health primary care doctor to get started.

, opens new tab