Thyroid Gland Facts: 10 Things You Should Know About Your Thyroid by Joyce Knestrick, CRNP, FAANP


Thyroid Gland Facts: 10 Things You Should Know About Your Thyroid

Roughly 20 million people have thyroid problems, and more than half have no idea. Part of the problem is thyroid issues are difficult to diagnose – symptoms are usually vague and hard to pinpoint. As a result, this tiny gland is one of the most misunderstood.

Here are 10 things you should know about your thyroid gland:

  1. It’s shaped like a butterfly, no bigger than your thumb.
  2. It produces hormones that influence every cell, organ and tissue in your body.
  3. It regulates critical bodily functions like your metabolism.
  4. Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) causes dry skin, forgetfulness, muscle cramps and weight gain.
  5. Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) causes irritability, racing heartbeat, sleep trouble and weight loss.
  6. Women are five to eight times more likely to have thyroid problems.
  7. One in eight women will develop a thyroid disorder in her lifetime.
  8. If you’re a woman over 35, the odds of developing a thyroid disorder are more than 30 percent.
  9. Thyroid disorders can most often be treated with medication.
  10. The causes of thyroid problems are largely unknown.

Your thyroid is small, but important. Don’t take this mighty little gland for granted!

The content on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. The information on this site should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your personal healthcare provider. The opinions or views expressed on 30Seconds.com do not necessarily represent those of 30Seconds or any of its employees, corporate partners or affiliates.

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Symptoms of Thyroid Problems: 14 Signs Your Thyroid May Be Out of Whack

Elisa Schmitz
Very helpful info. I knew nothing about my thyroid until I was diagnosed with postpartum hyperthyroid after my first pregnancy. Thanks for this helpful info, Joyce Knestrick, CRNP, FAANP !
bepositive
Didn’t know all this 🙍‍♀️
Avihaa
The thyroid gland looks like a butterfly. It's located at the front of our necks below the Adam's apple. And, it's pretty small – only about 4-6cm. The thyroid produces hormones that affect your metabolism or how fast or slow your brain, heart, muscles, liver and other parts of your body work.

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