By Team Aakash Byju's
Let us learn about the thyroid gland, its importance, thyroid disorders and how they are treated.
The Thyroid gland is a huge ductless gland that is a part of the endocrine system that secretes hormones.
The thyroid gland is butterfly-shaped and is located in the neck just below Adam's apple (larynx).
Thyroid hormones manage the metabolic rate of the body, regulating heart, muscle and digestive function.
The pituitary gland produces and releases thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
The thyroid gland produces Thyroxine (known as T4) and Triiodothyronine (known as T3) which are referred to as thyroid hormones.
C-cells are another type of hormone-producing cell found in the thyroid gland which produces Calcitonin.
Calcitonin helps to regulate calcium and phosphate levels in the blood, which is essential for bone health and maintenance.
The thyroid gland either produces too much hormone (Hyperthyroidism) or not enough hormone (Hypothyroidism).
Goiter: Enlargement of the thyroid gland.
The following are some of the other disorders caused by the thyroid gland:
Growth of cells in the thyroid gland.
Thyroid cancer
– Thyroid nodules: Lumps in the thyroid gland. – Thyroiditis: Swelling of the thyroid gland.
The thyroid gland's healthy functioning is dependent on the right amounts of iodine in the diet.
These are some interesting thyroid gland characteristics. Share these with your classmates.