Description

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the front of the neck that produces hormones that regulate many of the body's functions: Metabolism: The thyroid controls how fast the body burns calories and turns food into energy Heart rate: The thyroid affects how fast the heart beats Weight: The thyroid affects weight Digestion: The thyroid affects digestion Moods: The thyroid affects moods Blood pressure: The thyroid regulates blood pressure Body temperature: The thyroid regulates body temperature Bone health: The thyroid produces calcitonin, which helps bone cells process calcium When the thyroid doesn't produce enough or too much of the hormones it's supposed to, it can lead to thyroid disease. Some common thyroid diseases include: Hypothyroidism: When the thyroid doesn't produce enough hormones. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, hair loss, and menstrual cycle changes. Hyperthyroidism: When the thyroid produces too many hormones. Goiter: An enlargement of the thyroid gland. Thyroid nodules: Lumps in the thyroid gland. Thyroiditis: Swelling of the thyroid. Thyroid disease can be managed with treatment, but it can cause complications if left undiagnosed or untreated.