Understanding the Thyroid: Your Body’s Tiny Powerhouse
The thyroid is a small gland in your neck that has a big impact on your health. It produces hormones that control your metabolism, affecting how your body uses energy, your heart rate, and even your mood. Here’s a quick guide to understanding the thyroid and how to keep it healthy What is the Thyroid? The thyroid gland makes hormones called thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones help regulate : - ** Metabolism **: How your body converts food into energy. - ** Heart Rate **: The speed and strength of your heartbeat. - ** Body Temperature **: Keeping you warm or cool. - ** Growth and Development **: Especially important for children’s growth and brain development. Common Thyroid Problems 1. ** Hypothyroidism **: When the thyroid doesn’t make enough hormones. Symptoms include tiredness, weight gain, and feeling cold. 2. ** Hyperthyroidism **: When the thyroid makes too many hormones. Symptoms include weight loss, feeling hot, and irritability. 3. ** Goiter **: An...