The thyroid gland has a far-reaching influence on the body and its functions. Thyroid health is critical to general health. It produces hormones, which regulate the body’s metabolism and organ function. Thyroid hormones influence essentially every organ and every cell in the body. They affect the heart rate, cholesterol level, body weight, energy level, muscle strength, skin condition, vision, menstrual regularity, mental state and a host of other conditions.
The most common disorder of the thyroid is an underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism. This is when the thyroid does not produce enough hormones. Hypothyroidism can be triggered by autoimmune disease. This is called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. A lack of thyroid hormones basically slow down our entire metabolism. This can result in weight gain, lack of energy, water retention and feeling cold. It’s estimated that as many as 1 in 5 Americans have a thyroid problem, but the majority of them are unaware of their condition.
A less frequent disease of the thyroid gland is an overactive thyroid or hyperthyroidism. This occurs when the thyroid produces more thyroid hormones than the body needs. An overactive thyroid gland can speed up the body’s metabolism causing a racing heartbeat, dramatic weight loss and irritable bowels. If left untreated, thyroid disorders can affect a patient’s reproductive system, cardiovascular system and other major organs.