Understand How Thyroid Works

Although it measures approximately 30 grams, its functions are vital to the human body. Located in front of the larynx, the thyroid obeys the signals coming from the brain to produce the hormones T3 and T4, responsible for regulating the speed of all body functioning.

However, when this speed slows or increases too much, symptoms such as tiredness, feeling unwell, stress, weight change, among others, may mean that it deserves attention and some medical care to return to normal. When it is detected that it is in trouble, the specialist will diagnose whether there is hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. But do you know what the differences are?

Hypothyroidism

It is believed that it can be hereditary, passed down from generation to generation. The body produces antibodies capable of attacking the thyroid, which becomes inflamed and fails to perform its functions. The most common symptoms that can change from person to person are tiredness, cold sensitivity, extremely dry skin, weight gain and even menstruation.

The most common treatment is hormone replacement through medications. But it is important to note that it is only the doctor who can most accurately diagnose and indicate the best and most efficient treatments, as they may vary for each type of person.

If left untreated, the condition can lead to heart, gastrointestinal problems, among others.

Hyperthyroidism

Characterized by the presence of an antibody in the blood responsible for excessively accelerating hormone production. In this case, it is common for patients to complain of anxiety, insomnia, nervousness, tremors and weight loss.

Treatments can also be done through medicines and controlled consumption of iodine (this is the mineral used by the gland to produce hormones). Like all types of treatments, only the doctor can indicate the amount of it needed at meals, after all, excessive intake of iodine can also compromise treatment.

In other cases, the specialist will recommend surgery to make the treatment more effective.

How is the diagnosis made?

It is recommended that all persons undergo so-called preventive examinations at least twice a year. In the case of thyroid analysis, the doctor may order three types of exams: blood collection, scintigraphy and ultrasound.

Blood collection: Through a simple blood test, it is possible to check the dosages of hormones TSH, T3 and T4. His result also points to the presence of antithyroid antibodies.

Scintigraphy: Classified as thyroid mapping, the patient receives radioactive iodine in the body. This radioactivity of the mineral forms areas with greater luminosity, being possible to verify where there is more or less iodine concentration.

Ultrasound: Depending on the case, the specialist will recommend this test to check for the presence or absence of nodules in the gland. If it is present and if it is larger than 1 cm, specialists make the puncture, which through a needle, withdraws some cells for analysis.

Thyroid Animation (April 2024)