What is thyroid hormone, what does it do, what are the symptoms of deficiency?

What are thyroid hormones?

Thyroid hormones are a group of essential chemical messengers produced by the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped organ located in the neck. The two primary thyroid hormones are triiodothyronine (T₃) and thyroxine (T₄). These hormones contain iodine atoms and play a pivotal role in regulating various metabolic processes in the body.

What do thyroid hormones do?

Thyroid hormones have a wide-ranging impact on the body’s functions:

1. Metabolism regulation: They control the rate at which the body converts food into energy, affecting overall metabolism.
2. Body temperature: Thyroid hormones help maintain stable body temperature by influencing heat production and dissipation.
3. Heart rate: They impact heart rate and cardiac output, ensuring efficient blood circulation.
4. Brain development: Thyroid hormones are crucial for proper brain development during infancy and childhood.
5. Digestive function: They influence digestive processes, including nutrient absorption and gut motility.
6. Muscle function: Thyroid hormones help maintain muscle strength and coordination.
7. Bone health: They support bone growth and maintenance.

Symptoms of thyroid hormone deficiency

When the thyroid gland fails to produce an adequate amount of hormones, it can result in a condition called hypothyroidism. Symptoms of thyroid hormone deficiency (hypothyroidism) may include:

1. Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired and lacking energy.
2. Weight gain: Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight.
3. Cold sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to cold temperatures.
4. Dry skin and hair: Skin and hair becoming dry and brittle.
5. Depression: Experiencing mood changes, including depression and irritability.
6. Constipation: Sluggish bowel movements and constipation.
7. Muscle weakness: Muscle weakness and joint pain.
8. Menstrual irregularities: Irregular menstrual cycles in women.
9. Memory problems: Difficulty with concentration and memory.
10. Swelling: Swelling, especially in the face and extremities (Edema).

Thyroid hormone deficiency can lead to a condition known as hypothyroidism, which is typically managed through hormone replacement therapy to restore normal thyroid function. Regular monitoring and treatment can help individuals with hypothyroidism lead healthy, symptom-free lives.

Resources

1. ^WEBSITE Cleveland Clinic Medical. (n.d.). Thyroid hormone. Cleveland Clinic. [Cleveland Clinic]
2. ^BOOK Lingvay, I., & Holt, S. E. (2011). The thyroid. Oxford University Press eBooks.