The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck. It covers the upper trachea and the lower larynx. The thyroid gland consists of two lobes, which are interconnected by an isthmus. This organ can be called the main part of the entire endocrine system, as it produces hormones involved in the regulation of the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats.
In addition, they contribute to the smooth functioning of the digestive, mental, cardiovascular and reproductive systems. Given the importance of these hormones, it can be argued that their deficiency or excess affects human life - it can lead to dysfunction of all its systems and organs. It is necessary to start diagnosing thyroid diseases with an examination by an endocrinologist. After all, each symptom of thyroid disease refers to a specific pathology, which can be caused by a lack or excess of hormones. Accordingly, the treatment is prescribed differently.
An enlarged thyroid gland is called a goiter, which can be nodular or diffuse. In the first case, a part of the organ is enlarged, and in the second, the entire organ. Apart fromTherefore, a goiter can be toxic when the hormonal background is disturbed, and non-toxic when the normal hormonal background takes place. There are also 4 degrees of thyroid enlargement. The first - when the goiter is not outwardly noticeable, p
ri second - it is barely palpable. The third degree - when it floats on the neck, and at the fourth - the goiter goes behind the sternum and at the same time squeezes the throat.
What causes thyroid disease? The reasons may be different. This is the wrong way of life, and malnutrition, taking into account the emotional components. One of the reasons for the development of goiter may be a lack of iodine in the human body. It should be noted that today thyroid diseases develop not only in areas where acute iodine deficiency is noted, but also in areas located near the sea, where there is no shortage of this element.
Can you name the main symptom of thyroid disease? Most likely not, since pathology can develop in two directions. In hyperthyroidism, there is an increased production of hormones (hyperfunction of the gland). At the same time, a person's metabolism accelerates, and then the main symptom of thyroid disease is rapid weight loss, but subject to increased appetite. In addition, the skin becomes moist, sweating and blood pressure increase. Periodically, vomiting, nausea and loose stools can be observed. There is profuse and frequent urination. In women, the menstrual cycle is disrupted, and menstruation can pass with severe pain in the lower abdomen.
Men's potency decreases. Patients become nervous, fatigue appears, trembling in the body and hands. Another pronounced symptom is protrusion of the eyes, hyperpigmentation and puffiness of the eyelids also appear.
With hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, which also disrupts the functioning of many human systems and organs due to slow metabolism. In this case, the main symptom of thyroid disease is a sharp increase in body weight, subject to reduced appetite. A person quickly gets tired, there is constant drowsiness. Forgetfulness, increased anxiety, lack of attention are noted. The skin becomes dry, nails and hair become brittle. Swelling and puffiness appear on the face. The limbs are also swollen. The voice may become hoarse or hoarse. Joint pain and muscle cramps may occur. Moreover, this type of thyroid disease in men is much less common. Persistent lack of hormones occurs in 19 women out of 1000, while out of 1000 men it will occur only in one.
