Thyroid gland is endocrine gland that is located in the neck and has butterfly-shape. The thyroid secretes two hormones into the blood: triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). The hormones secreted by the thyroid regulate the growth and development through the rate of metabolism and the protein synthesis.
Doctors warn that thyroid disorders are very common nowadays and scientists have estimated that 1 out of 20 people is at risk to experience some type of thyroid disorder during the lifetime. Despite the fact that thyroid disorders most commonly affect women, men, children and teenagers also may experience issues with the thyroid.
The thyroid gland may be affected by several diseases, and the most common are hyperthyroidismand hypothyroidism and both occur as a result of thyroid hormone imbalance.
Hyperthyroidism is condition when the thyroid gland is abnormally active and as a result of that produces excessive amounts of thyroid hormones which results in a rapid heartbeat and an increased rate of metabolism. Other symptoms of this disease are irritation, nervousness, anxiety, diarrhea, sudden weight loss, heat sensitivity and sleep disorders.
Hypothyroidism is condition then the thyroid gland has abnormally low activity and there is insufficient thyroid hormone pro