Endocrine Surgery
What is the role of the thyroid gland?
The thyroid gland is found in the neck. It releases hormones into the bloodstream to control the body's growth and metabolism.
These hormones are called thyroxine and triiodothyronine. They affect processes such as heart rate and body temperature, and help to turn food into energy to keep the body going.
Normally, the levels of thyroxine and triiodothyronine in the blood are carefully controlled so that these processes happen at a steady rate. However, in hyperthyroidism, the thyroid gland produces an excess amount of the thyroid hormones which speeds up the body's metabolism. This causes symptoms such as:
- Hyperactivity,
- Iincreased appetite
- Rapid weight loss
- Tremors and agitation
- Increased or irregular heart beat
- Sweating
When the thyroid gland is under active (hypothyroidism) different symptoms occur:
- Weight gain
- Fatigue and lethargy
- Consitipation
- Sensitivity to cold
- Slow reactions
- Depression
Endocrine Conditions
Thyroid Disorders
Hyperthyroidism (Over Active Thyroid)
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Goitre
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Thyrotoxicosis (Over Actice Thyroid)
Hypothyroidism - causes, symptoms & treatment
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Related Web Links
www.nhs.uk/Conditions (external site – opens a new window)
Your Outpatient Appointment (link opens a new window)
Your Hospital Stay (link opens a new window)