The thyroid is a butterfly -shaped gland, located on the front of the neck, responsible for producing T3 and T4 hormones that are to regulate metabolism and body temperature, as well as heartbeat.
The main symptoms that indicate thyroid alteration are weight gain or loss without apparent reason, difficulty concentration and rapid or slow heartbeats, the most common problems being hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
In case of suspected thyroid problems, it is recommended to consult the endocrinologist, who may indicate blood and image tests to evaluate the thyroid and indicate the most appropriate treatment.
So that Serve
The thyroid serves to regulate some functions of the body, such as:
- Body metabolism rate;
- Heartbeat;
- Body temperature;
- Digestion;
- Breathing;
- Fertility;
- Maintenance of bones and skin.
In addition, thyroid is also important for children’s growth, brain development and mental activity.
Where is the thyroid
The thyroid gland is at the front of the neck, has two lobes, the right and the left, in addition to the central portion called isthmus, which gives it the shape of a butterfly.
These lobes are around the trachea, which is a tube that connects the larynx to the lungs.
Staying in front of the neck, during physical examination the doctor can feel the thyroid gland.
Thyroid change symptoms
The main symptoms of thyroid changes are:
- Increase or weight loss for no apparent reason;
- Fast or slower heartbeat;
- Cold or heat intolerance;
- Anxiety or depression;
- Frequent evacuations or boundaries arrested;
- Fatigue or muscle weakness;
- Dry skin and hair loss;
- Difficulty of concentration:
- Irregular menstruation in women.
In addition, in some cases, symptoms such as a sensation of throat, swelling on the front of the neck or hoarseness may also occur. Learn about identifying the symptoms of the thyroid problem.
It is important to consult the endocrinologist if altered thyroid symptoms arise, so that exams are performed and the problem is identified and thus perform the most appropriate treatment.
Thyroid hormones
The main hormones of the thyroid are T3, triiodothyronine, and T4, thyroxine, produced by this gland and released into the bloodstream.
These hormones are produced through a process that involves the transformation of iodine found in foods such as iodinated salt, eggs, mussel and oysters, for example. See the full list of food rich in iodine.
The production of thyroid hormones is induced by TSH hormone, thyroid stimulating hormone, produced by the pituitary gland or pituitary in the brain.
In addition to T3 and T4, thyroid also produces calcitonin, which is a hormone that helps regulate the amount of calcium in the blood.
Most common problems
The most common thyroid problems are:
- Hypothyroidismwhich is the decrease in the production of T3 and T4 hormones by the thyroid;
- Hyperthyroidismwhich is the increase in production of T3 and T4 hormones by the thyroid;
- Bass diseasewhich is an autoimmune disease that stimulates excessive production of hormones by the thyroid;
- Hashimoto thyroiditiswhere the gland is inflamed due to attack on thyroid cells by the immune system itself;
- Nodule or cyst in the thyroidwhich corresponds to the formation of a small lump in the neck region;
- Goiterin which an increase in the thyroid gland is noted;
- Thyroid cancerwhich is a tumor that appears in the thyroid gland.
Some of these thyroid problems may be caused by low or excessive iodine intake, or use of medications such as amiodarone, potassium iodide or antiarrhythmic, for example.
The diagnosis of the cause of the thyroid problem is made by the endocrinologist through the evaluation of symptoms, health history and drug use, lifestyle and thyroid exams.
Exams that evaluate the thyroid
The exams that evaluate the thyroid are requested by the endocrinologist, and usually include blood tests to measure the levels of T3, T4 and TSH hormone.
In some cases, the doctor may request antibody tests to detect autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto thyroiditis. Imaging exams such as ultrasound and scintigraphy may also be indicated for a more detailed assessment of the gland.
When nodules or cancer is suspected, an ultrasound -guided biopsy may be required to confirm the diagnosis. See the full list of exams that evaluate the thyroid.
Thyroid remedy
Thyroid remedies vary according to the condition to be treated, and may be indicated by the doctor to levothyroxine in cases of hypothyroidism, as it helps replace thyroid hormones, relieving symptoms.
In case of hyperthyroidism, the doctor may prescribe the use of remedies that reduce hormone production, such as methimazole, and beta -blockers to relieve symptoms such as accelerated heart.
In addition, radioactive iodine therapy can be used to destroy part or all thyroid, especially in cases of hyperthyroidism or cancer. Check out the main remedies for thyroid and how to use.
Source: www.tuasaude.com