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Thyroid Problems

The thyroid is one of the largest endocrine glands in the body. This gland is found in the neck below The Thyroid cartilage (also known as the Adam’s apple in men) and at approximately the same level as the cricoid cartilage. The thyroid controls how quickly the body burns energy, makes proteins, and how sensitive the body is to other hormones.

The thyroid participates in these processes by producing thyroid hormones, principally thyroxin (T4) and tri-iodothyronine (T3). These hormones regulate the rate of Metabolism and affect the growth and the rate of function of many other systems in the body. The thyroid also produces the hormone calcitonin, which plays a role in calcium Homeostasis.

The thyroid is controlled by the hypothalamus and pituitary. Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) are the most common problems of The Thyroid gland.

What are the symptoms?

Hypothyroidism usually develops gradually. The symptoms are mild and you may not even notice them at first.

Some of the symptoms include :-

• Feeling tired and sleeping a lot.
• Feeling the cold easily.
• Dry and/or pale skin.
• Coarse, thinning hair and brittle nails.
• Sore muscles, slow movements and weakness.
• A hoarse or croaky voice.
• A change in facial expression.
• Depression.
• Problems with memory and concentration.
• Weight gain.
• Constipation.
• Fertility problems and increased risk of miscarriage.
• Heavy, irregular or prolonged menstrual periods.
• A slow heart rate.

The tests that are applicable to this pathological condition are :-

However not all of the doctors will necessarily use all of these tests, some may use less and some more. Specific patients may require different tests and therefore the final selection of any tests must be made in conjunction with a medical doctor.

We appreciate that some readers have yet to decide upon the doctor and if you would like to receive a short list from which you can make the final selection please E-mail us. It is advisable that you identify the suspected or diagnosed pathological condition in order for us to provide the most appropriate options.
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