32. THYROID GLAND

The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped endocrine organ located at the base of the neck, just below the Adam’s apple. It produces crucial hormones—thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3)—that regulate metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, and energy usage throughout the body. It also secretes calcitonin to aid in calcium regulation. 

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Key Functions and Anatomy

• Location & Structure:

  Situated in the front of the neck with two lobes connected by an isthmus

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Common Thyroid Disorders

• Hypothyroidism (Underactive): The gland produces too little hormone, causing fatigue, weight gain, depression, and feeling cold.
• Hyperthyroidism (Overactive): The gland produces too much hormone, causing weight loss, rapid heartbeat, irritability, and heat sensitivity.
• Goiter: An enlarged thyroid gland, which may be caused by iodine deficiency or autoimmune diseases like Graves' disease.
• Thyroid Nodules/Cancer: Lumps that can develop on the gland, which may require biopsies or treatment.