Thyroid disorders
Thyroid Disorders
Thyroid disorders are medical conditions that affect the function of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck. It produces thyroid hormones, which regulate the body's metabolism, heart rate, temperature, and other important functions.
Pronunciation
Thyroid: /ˈθaɪrɔɪd/
Etymology
The term "thyroid" comes from the Greek word "thyreos," meaning "shield," and "eidos," meaning "form." This is due to the gland's shield-like shape.
Types of Thyroid Disorders
There are several types of thyroid disorders, including:
- Hypothyroidism: A condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. Symptoms may include fatigue, weight gain, and depression.
- Hyperthyroidism: A condition in which the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. Symptoms may include rapid heart rate, weight loss, and anxiety.
- Goiter: An enlargement of the thyroid gland. This can be caused by iodine deficiency, thyroid cancer, or inflammation of the thyroid.
- Thyroiditis: Inflammation of the thyroid gland. This can be caused by an autoimmune disease, infection, or certain medications.
- Thyroid nodules: Small lumps that form in the thyroid gland. These are usually benign, but can sometimes be cancerous.
- Thyroid cancer: A malignant tumor of the thyroid gland. This is relatively rare, but can be serious if not treated promptly.
Related Terms
- Endocrinology: The branch of medicine that deals with hormones and the glands that produce them.
- Hormone: A chemical substance produced in the body that controls and regulates the activity of certain cells or organs.
- Metabolism: The chemical processes that occur within a living organism in order to maintain life.
- Autoimmune disease: A condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Thyroid disorders
- Wikipedia's article - Thyroid disorders
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