The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of your neck. This gland produces thyroid hormones secreted into the blood and then carried to every tissue in the body. Thyroid hormone helps the body use energy, stay warm, and keep the brain, heart, kidneys, and other organs working. Thyroid imbalances Bastrop can cause various health problems, such as fatigue, weight gain or loss, moodiness, and depression.
There are two main types of thyroid hormone: thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Both hormones are made from iodine and tyrosine. T4 is the more common hormone, while T3 is the more active hormone. Thyroid hormones are regulated by the pituitary gland, located at the brain’s base.
The pituitary gland releases a thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which tells the thyroid gland to make more or less T4 and T3. If the thyroid gland isn’t producing enough thyroid hormone, the pituitary gland increases its production of TSH. It is called hypothyroidism. If the thyroid gland is making too much thyroid hormone, the pituitary gland decreases its production of TSH; it is called hyperthyroidism. Get a regular TSH test to keep your thyroid hormones in check.
There are a few key signs that your thyroid hormones may be out of balance:
Fatigue or feeling tired all the time
One of the most common signs of a thyroid hormone imbalance is fatigue. If you’re constantly feeling tired and run down, even after getting a full night’s sleep, it could be a sign that your thyroid isn’t functioning correctly.
Unexplained weight gain or loss
Another common sign of a thyroid hormone imbalance is sudden weight gain or loss. If you’re gaining weight for no apparent reason, it could be due to an increase in the hormone thyroxine (T4). On the other hand, losing weight without trying could be due to a decrease in the hormone triiodothyronine (T3).
Dry skin or brittle nails
Dry skin and brittle nails are other common signs of a thyroid hormone imbalance. The thyroid gland plays a role in skin and nail health, and this sign is more common in people with an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).
Moodiness or depression
If you’re moody or depressed, it could be due to a thyroid hormone imbalance. It is because the thyroid gland plays a role in regulating mood. This sign is more common in people with an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).
Difficulty concentrating
If you’re having difficulty concentrating, it could signify a thyroid hormone imbalance. It is because the thyroid gland plays a role in brain function. This sign is more common in people with an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).
Hashimoto’s disease, an autoimmune condition, is the most prevalent cause of hypothyroidism. When your immune system destroys your thyroid gland, you have Hashimoto’s disease. It can lead to inflammation and damage to the thyroid gland, making it harder for the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder that makes the immune system attack your thyroid gland and is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism.
If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s essential to talk to Pompeyo C Chavez, MD. Your doctor will order a blood test to check your thyroid hormone levels and determine if you have a thyroid hormone imbalance.
