What Is The Thyroid Gland?

Dr. Gino Tutera

The thyroid gland is a small organ within the endocrine system.  It weighs a merely 20 grams, or less than an ounce, and it is found in the neck beneath the Adam’s Apple.  Despite its small size, it is one of the most important hormone-secreting organs in the body.  Your thyroid provides a vital hormone to maintain and function the entire body.  When this vital hormone is deficient, even in small amounts, it often results in a multitude of symptoms and conditions affecting every organ in your body.

One of the important organs in the body that often undergoes changes before, during and after menopause is the thyroid gland.  In fact, studies show that hypothyroidism is far more common in women, especially women of menopausal age or who has a family history of hypothyroidism.  The following are a few basic facts about hypothyroidism:

·         Hypothyroidism affects 20 million Americans, or 1 in every 10 people.

·         Hypothyroidism runs in families, specifically among other females

·         Hypothyroidism is up to 8x more common in women than men.

·         By the age 50, 1 out of 12 women has some level of hypothyroidism

The following list of symptoms is consistent with hypothyroidism.  If you are suffering from any of these, please speak with your family physician regarding treatment.  (These are only a few of the most common symptoms).

·         Weakness

·         Fatigue

·         Constipation

·         Weight gain

·         Depression

·         Paleness

·         Dry flaky skin

·         Hoarseness

·         Abnormal menstrual periods

·         Muscle pain

·         Thin brittle hair and fingernails

There are several blood tests that can be performed to accurately assess thyroid function.  If your physician is attempting to determine your thyroid status, the blood test panel should consist of the following:

·         TSH – Thyroid Stimulating Hormone

·         Total T 4 or T4

·         Total T3

·         Free T4

·         Free T3

·         Anti-TPO and Anti-Tg Antibodies

If your healthcare provider has determined that you present clinically with hypothyroidism, a likely course of action will be to offer thyroid hormone replacement therapy.

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