Q: thyroid gland?
I can feel like a swollen gland in my throat, right where my thyroid is. i’m going to the doctor friday for something else and i’ll ask him but i was wondering if you all had any info. my neck isn’t swollen from the outside, my thyroid, by touch, feels the same on both sides (not particulary swollen like a goiter) and the feeling is on the right side. i can feel it when i swallow sometimes or when my head is bent down. just a small pressure, no pain. the thing is, i’ve felt this before, a few weeks ago but it went away. i’m wondering if it isn’t allergies or a cold virus but after looking at gland anatomy charts, it seems my thyroid is the only gland right there. maybe its a nodule? but wouldn’t i feel it all the time and not just on and off if it was a nodule?
so weird… let me know if anyone has any info on this
=)

A: I would get checked for Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism. The first one as you probably know, seeing as you’ve done some research, is when you have an over active thyroid. The latter is an under active thyroid. If you’ve noticed that you’re anxious all the time or it feels like your heart is beating fast then it could be Hyperthyroidism. There is no pain associated with Hyperthyroidism. Your gland will just feel swollen. Don’t let this go without getting your Thyroid checked because if it is Hyperthyroidism, it can cause you to have a heart attack if left undetected. At least that is what my doctor told me. If at all possible, go see an Endocrinologist. As I came to know, alot of regular physicians don’t know much when it comes to the thyroid gland so you are better off to see a specialist. Just ask your family doctor to make you an appointment with one.

Q: Thyroid Gland?
I have high activity thyroid gland, i have bit bigger breast than your average guy, i heard that increase in size is caused by the thyroid gland. is it true and what can i do to make them smaller. (I’m already on medication to decrease my thyroid activity)

A: gynaecomastia may or may not be caused by thyroid illness, stick to your pills, get tests done regularly and once you have been under control for a few months, 3-6 months at least then re evaluate your gynaecomastia, good luck

Q: Thyroid gland?
My Grandmother had an over-active thyroid gland.

My Mother has an over-active thyroid gland.

And now my Sister has one.

Should I be concerned about mine?
I’m male, if that changes anything.

A: Yes hyperthyroidism have familial tendency(40-50% more chance in another member of family).

Many asymptomatic indivisuals may have suppressed TSH,known as subclinical disease.

It is more prevelent in females (8 times more then males) but can affect males too.Thyroid related ophthalmopathy is more common and more severe in males.

Several environmental facors are also important like–Psychological stress,cigarette smoking,iodine intake,drugs and some infections.

You should get your TSH,free T3 , T4 and thyroid antibodies checked.

Q: Does your thyroid gland have to be swollen for you to have a thyroid problem?
I have all of the symptoms of a thyroid problem except a swollen thyroid gland. So does it sound like I have a thyroid problem or does it sound like a different problem?

A: No, it does NOT have to be swollen and you should NOT be diagnosed on a thyroid blood panel only! Especially if the doc only blood tests for TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone). If he/she does then run do not walk from their office. TSH is your body’s thermostat which is secreted by your Pituitary Gland.

I learned the hard way from experience and now due to doctor’s misconceptions I had to have my thyroid surgically removed. I missed thyroid cancer by a hair width. I will be taking 2 pills 3 times per day for the rest of my life because of doctors solely relying on blood tests. I had a sub-clinical thyroid condition (meaning blood tests within the normal to low normal range) which later resulted in a autoimmune disease thyroid condition. I should have been diagnosed based on symptoms, but it takes a doc with a lot of knowledge to think outside the 4-corners of their medical textbook and guts too. My symptoms began 15 years ago and it took 15 years to hit rock bottom for my disease to surface on blood tests but then it became an autoimmune disease and was TOO LATE. Autoimmune disease is where your immune system turns against you and it begins to attack your body.

Also, I found that specialists such as Endocrinologists were the least informed. I found that they were quick to push mental health drugs treating only the symptoms and not getting to the root of the real problem. Go to the library and SELF-EDUCATE, read all books by patient advocate Mary J. Shomon, Doctors Ridha Ahrem and Steven F. Hotze. Once you learn just how important the thyroid is to your body’s well being and how it functions, then you will be able to connect the dots. You know your body better than anyone.

If you can remember one key important fact which is that some/most doctors medicate using the T-4 hormone (a thyroid pro-hormone) only, but a patient’s problem could lie with the assimilation of the T-3 hormone (the thyroids active hormone). After T-4 enters cells it must be converted into T-3 which is the active active form of thyroid hormone (active OUTSIDE of your blood stream) it is what effects your mental health (depression), memory, fatigue, body temperature, muscle strength, cholesterol level, weight, hair, skin, nails, etc. A complete hormone panel is key too (estrogens, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, cortisol,melatonin). I prefer hormone testing using saliva over blood, which unfortunately, the majority of insurance plans do not cover. I feel it is money well spent.

Good Luck and Be Well.

Q: Is the thyroid gland considered an endocrine organ?
Why is the thyroid gland considered to be an endocrine organ?

A: Endocrine meaning it is a organ that should realease something to the outside like hormones. And Thyroid releases hormones.

So since it releases hormones…it is endocrine system.

Q: How does the thyroid gland effect diabetes?
I know that if the thyroid gland isn’t functioning properly, people with diabetes find it difficult to manage their diabetes. Why is that?

A: People with diabetes who develop hypothyroidism may find it hard to manage their diabetes. This is because the way their body uses glucose is altered.

Fatigue may set in and you won’t feel like undertaking any physical activity. This may lead to weight gain from the decreased physical activity and a slower metabolism.

However, once a person with hypothyroidism receives thyroid replacement medication, their thyroid levels usually return to normal, as does their diabetes medication requirements.

Q: How big is the thyroid gland in grams and cm?
I just had an ultrasound done today and my thyroid gland is 4.3cm. Is this normal or is it a little enlarged?

A: Normal depends on several things such as age, if you smoke, gender, etc., etc., but they are usually between 4-4.8cm. I have no idea how much they weigh.

Q: why is the thyroid gland considered to be the strongest gland in the endocrine system?
I need help understanding why they thyroid gland is considered to be the strongest gland in the endocrine system.

A: Hi from France ♫

It’s because it is the ” conductor ” of the glands in the human body..

Have a great day,

Cat;

Q: What happens if my thyroid gland has being removed?
when i was 13 i had one of my thyroid gland removed.

i think we have two thyroid glands and one of mine has being removed!

can anyone tell me what kind of side effects i could have with only ONE thyroid gland.

i think am getting less energy.

could you also tell me what kind of treatments i could have for thyroid deficiency?

A: You only have one thyroid, you just had one side removed.

Same thing happened to me when I was 15. I am 22 now and have no problems.

If you do have a thyroid deficiency (Hypothyroidism), your Doctor would probably prescribe you to Synthroid or Armour. They replace the hormones that the thyroid produces.

Q: What does an enlarged thyroid gland mean?
I went to the doctors this week for bronchitis. He mentioned that I had an enlarged thyroid gland. What does this mean? What causes this? How can it affect me? I have an appointment for a physical at the end of the month. I will ask my doctors these questions as well. I just wanted to see what others had to say about this.

A: The medical term for this is a Goiter. This can be cause by a generlized enlargement or asymmetric ( nodular)
There are a number of factors which may cause the thyroid to become enlarged. Common cause of goiter is an increase in thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in response to a defect in normal hormone synthesis within the thyroid gland. The thyroid stimulating hormone comes from the pituitary and causes the thyroid to enlarge. This enlargement usually takes many years to become manifest.

Your doctor will probably run a variety of tests on you. Starting with Blood work. They will measure your T4 T3 and TSH levels (thyroid hormones)
He may choose to send you for a ultrasound as well. Depending on the results of those tests, it could lead to others.
Alot of times people have goiters and not even know it.

Educate yourself on the thyroid and disease of it. I’ve provided some links that might aid you in this.

Best of luck to you…

Q: Does the thyroid gland have anything to do with depression?
I’m getting a blood test tomorrow for my thyroid gland and my doctor decided this after he diagnosed that I had a slight form of depression. Just wondering if the thyroid gland has anything to do with depression.

Oh and before you say anything to encourage me about blood tests, i’ve done it before, nearly passed out, but this time i’ll do fine with it.

A: i was told my thyroid was outta wack about a year ago… its not something you wanna hear when your 19 but oh well… and it not working properly can cause alot of things cause it regulates pretty much everything in your body from how fast your hair grows to “waste management” to your red blood cell count. so it is a very good idea to get it checked out cause you never know…

Q: What happens to TSH when thyroid gland is removed?
Ya for example an experiment animal, we remove the thyroid gland. My “theory” is that, if TRH is produced from Hypothalamus and it makes the Hypofize (sorry if I spelled wrong in my language) produce TSH, that make Thyroid produce T3 and T4, but T3 and T4 influence in increase or decrease of TRH, then if we remove thyroid, the levels of TRH should be decreased until stopped. Which is the right answer?

A: The question I think you’re asking is about TSH rather than TRH, right? TSH is the one we mainly look at (over T3 and T4 in screening, especially). If the thyroid gland is removed (whether surgically or through radioactive iodine ablation), and this is usually done because a person is hyperthyroid to the point that methimazole isn’t working to relieve the hyperthyroidism, then the TSH will go UP. A high TSH, as we know, indicates a hypothyroid state.

Q: How is life for athletes without their thyroid gland and on replacement thyroxine?
My doctor recommends that I have my thyroid gland removed because of a benign but large cold nodule. I am physically very active and I am worried that the replacement thyroxine will make me tired and that it may have other side effects too. Anyone out there who has undergone through thyroid surgery before?
I would like doctors opinion but mostly patients sharing their personal experience.

A: I am on thyroxine because of an underactive thyroid – takes a long time and lots of effort to get the dosage right, and then only if the doctors are willing to listen to how you feel, rather than the dreaded blood tests which according to them show you are fine! I have to say that I find the gym exhausting rather than envigorating which everyone else seems to feel. Also I have put on well over 16 lbs in weight which will not shift whatever I do. Try going to About.com and looking at the Mary Shames Thyroid site – sorry can’t remember the URL, but you can google it.

Q: What are 12 diseases/conditions in the endocrine gland that involve the thyroid?
What are 12 conditions and or diseases that happen in the thyroid gland that is related with the endocrine?

A: Thyroid cancer

Q: What type of tissue is the thyroid gland?
1.what type of tissue is the thyroid gland made of?
muscular, connective, nervous, epithelial.

2. True or False– Connective tissue cells are packed tightly together.

A: 1. Epithelial

2. False – most aren’t.

Q: parathyroid gland?
Does the extra calcium in your blood affect your teeth?

A: excessive secretion of parathyroid hormone causes extra calcium , this is known as hyper parathyroidism or browns tumor

it cause imbalance in the calcium and phosphors levels , which results in changes in the bone architecture, it causes tooth root resorption , loosening of teeth and sometimes tooth gets exfoliated .

Q: What diseases can develope from a tumor in the parathyroid gland?
From the list below.

1. Osteoarthritis
2. Achondroplasia
3. Osteoporosis
4. Hypocalcemia
5. Hyperthyroidism
6. Hypercalcemia

Please explain.

A: Parathyroid is a gland in neck whih produces a hormone called PTH (parathyroid hormone). Its oversecretion will cause:
Hypercalcemia
PTH causes increase absorption of calicium from Gut/ kidney and bone and increased excretion of phosphate from kidney thus it will lead to Hypercalcemia (increased caliun level in blood) and hypophosphatemia.
Most common cause of hyperparathyroidism is adenoma (85%)

Q: What body systems or organs are dependent on the thyroid of parathyroid gland?
I have science homework and this is a question that’s IMPOSSIBLE to answer. I can’t find it on the Internet. Anyone know?!?!

A: I think you will find this link helpful: http://www.parathyroid.com/parathyroid.htm

Q: When blood calcium level drops, what change on the level of parathyroid hormone to the parathyroid gland?
What kind of bone cells does this stimulate and how.

A: When the level of Calcium in the blood drops, the parathyroid releases parathyroid hormone (PTH). This elevates the level of blood calcium by stimulating the resorption of calcium and excretion of phosphate from the bones. It also enhances absorption of calcium from the GI tract by stimulating the conversion of vitamin D to its’ active form, which in turn aides in the absorption of Calcium, further increasing blood calcium levels.

Q: Is the parathyroid gland or overactive parathormone related to dental cavities.?
This hromon control the metabolism of calcium in the body to much hormione sould theoretically cause a calcium loss? All speculative just an idea and ideas?

A: No, the parathyroid controls the metabolism of bone calcium between bones and the blood. Dental cavities are caused by bacteria in the mouth releasing acid which breaks down the tooth enamel. The two are completely unrelated.

Q: How does the parathyroid gland control your blood calcium level?

A: That’s all the parathyroid does–control the blood calcium level. If the parathyroid is out-of-whack…..your calcium levels can become dangerously high (over 9 is too high). If it gets up over 15, you can have a stroke or heart failure and you will have instant osteoporosis. If your calcium is very high–it’s coming right out of all your bones. If you think you have this or have been diagnosed–I hope you see a really good endocrinologist.

This is a great site for explaining the functions and problems that can occur:

http://www.parathyroid.com/

Q: What is the function of the parathyroid gland?

A: They are small glands in your neck that produce parathyroid hormone to control calcium levels.

According to Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parathyroid
“The parathyroid glands are small endocrine glands in the neck that produce parathyroid hormone. Humans have four parathyroid glands, which are usually located behind the thyroid gland, and, in rare cases, within the thyroid gland or in the chest. Parathyroid glands control the amount of calcium in the blood and within the bones.”

Q: What is the function of parathyroid gland?

A: Parathyroid glands control the amount of calcium in the blood and within the bones.

Q: what is the average cost of having your parathyroid gland removed in tennessee?

A: Any where from 5K up

Q: Other than Surgery for ParaThyroid Gland Problem ?
are there any other medical avenues so to speak that
my Endocronoligist can talk to me about. Had a recent
Bone density test shows improvement over the last
test I had, which was over 2yrs. ago. Dr. reccomended
me to see if my bones were thinning because of the
Parathyroid problem.

A: I think you need to get the surgery because most of the time hyperparathyroidism is caused by a adenoma (benign tumor) of the parathyroid glad. So if that gets removed, you won’t have any problems. For now, drink a lot of water to flush out the calcium, do exercise because it will stimulate some of the calcium to go back into your bones.

Q: 1.Which organ systems contains the parathyroid gland? 2.What are the parathyroid’s main functions?
Um, i have more.
3.How does the parathyroid work with other systems to keep the body healthy?
4.Which diseases or disorders affect the parathyroid?
5.Can a person live without the organ?
PLEASE, help me answer these questions by Thursday, February 28th.Please and thank you!!!<33

A: the hormonal system contains the parathyroid gland

2. it secretest parathormone which increases the level of calcium in the body
4. hyposecretion causes hypocalcemic tetany and hypersecretion causes ostetis cystic fibrosis
5. yes a person can live without the organ

Q: how does remove parathyroid gland have effect on Osteoporosis?

A: You parathyroid glands regulate the calcium in your blood, so too little calcium can lead to osteopenia and osteoporosis. Generally, your surgeon will tell you to take calcium + Vitamin D supplements to prevent bone loss.

Q: where was the first parathyroid gland found?
quiz!!!!!!
which animal was the first parathyroid found
i know they are part of the endocrine system. what i am asking is what animal was the first parathyroid found. before it was discovered in humans it was discovered in what animal.
no not a fish

A: It has long been held that the parathyroid glands and parathyroid hormone evolved with the emergence of the tetrapods, reflecting a need for new controls on calcium homeostasis in terrestrial, rather than aquatic, environments.

Nice to see you’ve corrected the spelling mistake in your ‘nickname’, after we all pointed it out, of course…there’s a good girl!

Q: What hormones and type of hormones does the gland thyroid and parathyroid produce?
I don’t understand. I thought it was the thyroid hormone but then it talks about t4 and t3 hormones and such. Please help!! I’m looking for quick answers.

A: The thyroid gland produces thyroid hormone (t4), however it is made in the form of t3 (a precursor) which then becomes t4.

It also produces calcitonin.

The parathyroid gland produces parathormone (parathyroid hormone) which has effects on calcium metabolism.

Q: If diagnose with hypresecretory tumor of parathyroid gland, what effect will it have on renal tubule function?

A: The parathyroid gland produces a hormone called parathyroid hormone (PTH) that is involved in the synthesis of 1-alpha hydroxylase in the proximal tubule – getting vitamin D get that 2nd hydroxylation it needs for it to become active vitamin D, it also decreases the reabsorption of phosphorus and bicarbonate in the proximal tubule while increases reabsorption of calcium in the distal tubule.

In the disease state that you mention, you have an over production of PTH. This causes hypervitaminosis D which results in in hypercalcemia. Having hypercalcemia, you run the risk for having more calcium in your urine which leads to formation of renal stones, which is the most common complication. With the inability to reclaim bicarb and phosphorus, patients will eventually develop metabolic acidosis and hypophosphatemia.

Q: Thyroid glands?
if a women has thyroid problom is there treatment she can get to loose the weight? or is she gonna just keep blowing up?

A: YES!! ask your doctor about it… my aunt starting loosing weight after they found that she had an overactive thyroid and my cousin, who’s always been on anti-depressants, found that she had an overactive thyroid and with the medication they put her on for it she hasn’t needed to take her “happy” pills anymore.
an overactive thyroid changes a lot in our systems… who knew?! =)

Q: Thyroid Glands ?
Do you think i have an over active or underactive thyroig gland, or neither. These are my symptoms, i put on weight easy, i dont lose it by excercising and cutting out foods and eating less, i only lose it when i just eat less and dont excercise, i feel tired most of the time, i get depressed and ache everywhere and feel really cold most of the time,even in when its hot. Ive had this problem for about 4 years does it just come on like this.?
Hi my hair does fall out not excessivley but i have little bald patches, i did dye my hair alot thought and i thought it was because of this but i stopped dying it and it still falls out from the root of the heathly hair. Its worse when i wash it. strands come out

A: Sounds like an underactive thyroid.
Feel the cold, hair loss, tiredness.
You need to get a blood test from your doctor

Q: What hormone does your Thyroid glands produce?
I know that the difficiency called Goiter enlarges the thyroid gland due to an iodine diffiency. The gland uses iodine to produce this hormone but what is the hormone and what is it used for. Thanks

A: The thyroid is very tricky gland. There is a hormone in every single cell in your body and the thyroid is responsible for making sure its where its supposed to be-it keeps the body in a state of homeostatsis and when its off-all hell breaks loose. A goiter is caused when a the gland overproduces or a cyst gets attached to the gland or a tumor also-The hormones help regulate everything from youyr heart to your digestive system to your metabolism-its not just one thing like most beleive-Hyperthyroid is when the gland does NOT produce enough and hypothyroid is when the gland is over producing-medication can usually bring the thyroid back to normal but its mostly a lifetime disease with no cure. Hope this helped-from a hyperthyroid person.

Q: What if i commit a sin under the influence of my hyperactive thyroid glands?
Shall i be held responsible for sins committed?

A: Anyone with a medical condition can make things up after they are better.
Get it checked out it can lead to serious medical conditions then you will be in the hands of others not the Lord, because most of them in the medical field they don’t believe in God, so good luck!
Stay thin
Go for walks and stop sitting around like a duff all the time!

Q: If I get my thyroid glands removed will it leave a scar around my collar/neck lining?
My doctor is telling me I have to get my thyroid gland removed. I was wondering if there was maybe a different way of dealing with this problem. Maybe, I should get a second doctors opinion, because I know if I get the gland remove I will have to be on medication, to replace the horomones the gland produces, for the rest of my life. However, if surgery is a “must”, can I get surgery done that will not leave a scar? Can someone answer my question?

A: I have known a lot of people who have had this surgery. The surgeon always ensures that the line is as small as possible and ideally in a crease line.
Initially the scar is quite obvious whilst it is still healing. Once it is healed you hardly notice anything. It is very small and faint. Often I have not noticed until people have told me about it.
One other thing I would like to mention is that I would take your surgeons advice. S/he would not operate unless it was necessary.
Good luck.

Q: How does under-active thyroid glands affect you? What symptoms shows that you have under-active thyroid glands?
Does under-active thyroid gland affect the height of someone?

A: Lethargy, weight gain, water retention, low immunity

Q: What are underactive thyroid glands ?
My mum said I might have It and my grandma had it – can you inherit it ?
Brighton L : the website didnt work could you try again ?

A: Under active Thyroid simply means that your thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormone to keep up with your body needs. I am not sure if it is a genetic thing however, if you suspect you have hypothyroidism (under active Thyroid) then you should have it checked out. It is just a simple blood test. The treatment for it is simply to take thyroid hormone, which is just one pill a day you have to take and it is relatively inexpensive.

Q: My doctor said my thyroid glands are swollen, i am only 16, what does that mean for me?
what will happen, will i be able to reduce the swelling to do down?

A: Hi Rachel,

First of all, you only have one thyroid gland. If it is your thyroid gland that is swollen, this is called a goiter and can be caused by thyroid disease such as Hypothyroidism or Hyperthyroidism. Your doctor will need to do further testing such as checking your TSH and T4 levels. Also be sure that he didn’t mean to say lymph node glands. If your lymph nodes are swollen then this is not as complicated and will usually go away on its own.

Good Luck!!

Q: Why do the bone, thyroid gland and adrenal glands show no change in the rate of blood flow with exercise?

A: becase blood doesn’t flow through them….

Q: Is there a link between food intolerance (gluten intolerant) and an under active thyroid glands?

A: Yes.
go here:

http://thyroid.about.com/cs/latestresearch/a/celiac.htm

Q: Will THC be detected in a blood test for thyroid glands?
So basically i have been using marijuana once a weekend for the past 3 weeks… but it has been around 10 days since my last use. I am having a blood test for thyroid levels later today and was wondering if THC would e detected even though they are not specifically looking for it? Xo

A: Your TSH level (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) will not indicate the usage of cannabinoids. They would have to do a therapeutic drug screen to detect marijuana usage….

Q: does thyroid glands cause your throat to hurt?
I went to the doctor today and she told me that my thyroid gland felt enlarged and told me that i need to get a ultrasound .so i scheldued for one for wednesday. but tonight my throat really hurts .it feels tight and kinda burns when i try to swallow on my right side . can this be caused by my thryoids are can it be some type of virus.

A: Sounds like strep throat to me. Strep can (And usually does) cause the thyroids to become inflamed (swollen and enlarged). It’s very unlikely it’s anything serious, but if the thyroids are enlarged enough to worry a doctor, it might be thyroiditis, which is bad.

Q: i have slightly enlarged thyroid glands with diffuse parenchymal disease, what does it mean?
is diffuse parenchymal disease a serious illness? cos whenever i research the net, all i get is about thyroid cancer related answers

A: Hi Jo-ann. My advice to you would be to call your doctor and ask this question. I would want to find this information out from someone with medical knowledge, not somebody on Yahoo answers. I have Thyroid disease, and i have never even heard of Parenchymal Disease. Don’t scare yourself by things you read on the net. Ask your doctor so you can get the correct information. Good luck

Q: Name three (3) hormones anabolically derived from the thyroid glands, and all of their functions?

A: (1) The amine (derived from tyrosine) Thyroxine (or tetraiodothyronine) (T4), manufactured by thyroid epithelial cells, the less active form of thyroid hormone, which increases the basal metabolic rate & sensitivity to catecholamines, and affects protein synthesis.

(2) The amine (derived from tyrosine) Triiodothyronine (a thyroid hormone) (T3), manufactured by thyroid epithelial cells, the more potent form of thyroid hormone, which increases the basal metabolic rate & sensitivity to catecholamines, and affects protein synthesis.

(3) The peptide Calcitonin (CT), produced by thyroid parafollicular cells, which acts via cAMP to stimulate construction of bone and to reduce blood Ca2+.

Q: are root crops still good to eat by persons who has no thyroid glands?

A: Depends upon whether the person was born without a thyroid gland or their thyroid is missing due to surgical removal because of cancer. If due to surgical removal then the person would already be taking supplemental thyroid hormone and would have no diet restrictions. If they were born without a thyroid then they would already know if any foods disagree with them. Soy beans and Brussels sprouts which might cause problems for a person with no thyroid are not considered root crops. I do not find any mention of root crops being a diet no no. Read this article. http://thyroid.about.com/cs/basicinformation/a/nothyroid.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Root_crop

Q: what is the function of the thyroid gland in pigs? in humans?
what is the function of the thyroid gland in pigs? in humans?

A: Regulates metabolism. Pigs and humans.

Q: what is the regulating (initial) hormone in the negative feedback control of thyroid gland function (multiple)?
a. epinephrine
b. iodine
c. THS-releasing hormone
d thyroid stimulating hormone

A: c. THS-releasing hormone

Q: In a person with normal thyroid gland function, the blood concentration of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH),?
triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) remain within a normal range of concentrations. In some people, the immune system begins to produce an abnormal substance that functions like thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) (it is a “thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) agonist”). what effects would this substance have on the patient’s blood concentrations of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4)? Briefly explain.

A: Although Hardrocking Joe’s statements are correct, they do not answer the question. In certain individuals, there is a disease called Grave’s disease where there are circulating immunoglobulins that bind to the TSH receptor and activate them. These people are hyperthyroid annd have high circulating levels of T3 and T4 and low circulating levels of TSH. There is also another disease called Hashimoto’s thryroiditis where there are circulating immunoglobulins that bind to the TSH receptor but do not activate them. Instead, they block and prevent TSH from binding to its receptor. These people are hypothyroid and have low circulating levels of T3 and T4, but high circulating levels of TSH (because they are hypothyroid).

Q: in what ways are the adrenal cortex functions and the thyroid gland functions similar?
any help would be greatly appreciated.

if you are able to answer this question maybe you could help with the follow on.
i also need to compare their internal and external structures in relation to their functions and explain how each tissue is able to carry out its role. I need comparisons for this

thanks

A: Either of two small, dissimilarly shaped endocrine glands, one located above each kidney, consisting of the cortex, which secretes several steroid hormones, and the medulla, which secretes epinephrine. Also called suprarenal gland.

Q: What is the function of thyroid gland?

A: The function of the thyroid gland is to take iodine, found in many foods, and convert it into thyroid hormones: thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Thyroid cells are the only cells in the body which can absorb iodine. These cells combine iodine and the amino acid tyrosine to make T3 and T4. T3 and T4 are then released into the blood stream and are transported throughout the body where they control metabolism (conversion of oxygen and calories to energy). Every cell in the body depends upon thyroid hormones for regulation of their metabolism. The normal thyroid gland produces about 80% T4 and about 20% T3, however, T3 possesses about four times the hormone “strength” as T4.

Q: Which is NOT a function of the thyroid gland?
maturation of the nervous system, controls rate og body’s metabolism, regulates storage of sugar in the body, influences growth and developmnt ..

A: A thyroid gland does not regulate storage of sugar in the body

Q: Lab work indicates Thyroid function is normal but?
I still have a nodule on my thyroid gland. I am worried it could be cancerous. I am having an appointment tommorrow to see if i can get a biopsy. Has anyone ever had a normal blood work done and experienced something different on the gland itself??

A: Don’t fantasize about what it could be because most of the time you will be wrong. Wait to see what the doctor says and don’t be afraid to know what it really is. There is always options and ways to deal with whatever it is. In regard to your blood test, that does not tell you what nutrients you may be lacking that can cause the thyroid to enlarge or create growths. You need to check your iodine level in your body. Most doctors do not recognize people have iodine deficiencies and say it is rare, but in fact, it is rare NOT to have a deficiency of iodine in America today.

good luck to you

Q: What function does a Thyroid Gland do?

A: The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the base of our neck, just below the Adam’s apple. The two main hormones produced by it are iodine (containing hormones Thyroxine or T4) and Triiodothyronine (or T3) that circulate in the body through the bloodstream and work on every living tissue and cell. TSH, a thyroid-stimulating hormone, is produced by the pituitary that stimulates the thyroid gland. These hormones are essential for life and have many effects on body metabolism, growth and development. For example, thyroid hormones make the heart beat faster and cause the body to burn up calories more quickly.

Q: What are the similarities between the thyroid and pituitary gland?
What are the similarities between the thyroid and pituitary gland functions and structure?
thats brilliant can anyone think of some structural similarities?

A: The endocrine system .. both show ‘positive feedback’ and work together in the endocrine system and secerete hormones

Q: what is the function of the thyroid gland?

A: http://www.endocrineweb.com/thyfunction.html

Try this link

Q: Is it true that Broccoli can block the uptake of iodine into the thyroid gland?
I have low thyroid function, and do blood tests regurarly.

A: I looked it up in my vitamin bible, and there’s no mention of, but kelp will.

Q: What is the significance of iodine in the thyroid gland in regards to it’s normal function?

A: Iodine is needed to make thyroxine. Thyroxine is the hormone produced by the thyroid gland. Thyroxine is very important in controlling body metabolism.

A radioactive iodine scan can be used to diagnose thyroid cancer, but its not reliable. If the scan shows a “hot” nodule, that indicates an abnormal region using a lot of iodine, more than normal. A “hot” nodule is not usually cancer. If the scan shows a “cold” nodule, that indicates an abnormal region using less iodine than normal. “Cold” nodules can be caused by many causes, cancer included. But like I said, it could be caused by many causes.

The best way to diagnose thyroid cancer is to do a fine needle biopsy.

Q: How does the thyroid gland effect diabetes?
I know that if the thyroid gland isn’t functioning properly, people with diabetes find it difficult to manage their diabetes. Why is that?

A: People with diabetes who develop hypothyroidism may find it hard to manage their diabetes. This is because the way their body uses glucose is altered.

Fatigue may set in and you won’t feel like undertaking any physical activity. This may lead to weight gain from the decreased physical activity and a slower metabolism.

However, once a person with hypothyroidism receives thyroid replacement medication, their thyroid levels usually return to normal, as does their diabetes medication requirements.

Q: Does my TSH record (4.7) indicates that i have Defects in the functions of the thyroid gland?
Does my TSH record (4.7) indicates that i have Defects in the functions of the thyroid gland?
Im suffering of overweight (160cm, 76 kg) and difficulty in losing Weight in spite of doing exercises and making diet?
i have made TSH test with the result of 4.7
does it indicate that i have under active thyroid gland so cannot lose my over Weight?

A: There’s a discrepancy of what the normal range of TSH is, my doctor’s guideline is .5-5. You being at 4.7 means you’re borderline hypothyroid, so that explains why you can’t lose weight. I suggest going to your doctor and talking about the options, such as starting a low dose of Synthroid.

Q: where is the thyroid gland?what is its function? what hormone does it secrete?

A: Thyroid gland is one of the endocrine, or ductless, glands of the body. They are located in the neck.

Thyroid gland produces, well, Thyroid hormones. They come in as T3 and T4.

The function is metabolism, that continuous chemical work going on in the body. It regulates the metabolism and so has an effect on the growth and activity of the body.

A hyperactive thyroid will make the person restless, sweaty, thin, persistently hungry, anxious.

An underactive thyroid leaves the person dull, lazy, slow, fat, anorexic (appetite loss), tired.

And, oh yes, it also secretes Calcitonin, a hormone that regulates Calcium in the body; in bones and blood.

Q: What does an enlarged thyroid gland mean?
I went to the doctors this week for bronchitis. He mentioned that I had an enlarged thyroid gland. What does this mean? What causes this? How can it affect me? I have an appointment for a physical at the end of the month. I will ask my doctors these questions as well. I just wanted to see what others had to say about this.

A: The medical term for this is a Goiter. This can be cause by a generlized enlargement or asymmetric ( nodular)
There are a number of factors which may cause the thyroid to become enlarged. Common cause of goiter is an increase in thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in response to a defect in normal hormone synthesis within the thyroid gland. The thyroid stimulating hormone comes from the pituitary and causes the thyroid to enlarge. This enlargement usually takes many years to become manifest.

Your doctor will probably run a variety of tests on you. Starting with Blood work. They will measure your T4 T3 and TSH levels (thyroid hormones)
He may choose to send you for a ultrasound as well. Depending on the results of those tests, it could lead to others.
Alot of times people have goiters and not even know it.

Educate yourself on the thyroid and disease of it. I’ve provided some links that might aid you in this.

Best of luck to you…

Q: If you had an enlarged thyroid gland, and it effected your weight gain, how much weight would you gain in one ?
If someone had an enlarged thyroid gland, and it happened to effect your weight gain, how much weight would you gain in a day?

I am just curious

A: I don’t know about in a day how much one would gain. I do however have enlarged thyroid. and how I have managed it was buying “iodized” “red cross” salt. I cook my food etc with it and so far it hasn’t bothered me in all these years. The reason I did this is because I overheard my mother say the doctor said to use iodized salt. My mother had her thyroid removed during the operation and they found cancer in and all around in there. By the way they didn’t tell her they removed the thyroid. Prior to the operation she had protruding eyes. swollen under the brow area, and the protruding neck area. Taking a crazy guess I would say you might accumulate 8 lbs in a day. But its not really in a day, it may look or feel that way. Any way thyroid messes with your metabolism. Good luck

Q: Can someone with enlarged thyroid gland be granted visa to work abroad?
Status: growth not advancing for 5 years by taking thyroxine hormone regularly(for hypothyroidism), not interferring with swallowing and not visible except on x ray examination. Have work on supervisory level as farm manager abroad already for 8 yrs without it causing a problem. I beleive having it operated on to remove it is not even the solution because the fact that it is hormonal the defeciency of thyroxine will still be there.

A: Shouldn’t be an issue

Q: What did your vet say about enlarged thyroid / goiter / grass gland?
I’ve heard different things that vets have said about enlarged thyroids in horses (also known as goitres/goiters/’grass gland’)

If your horse has had it, what did your vet tell you about it? To treat or not to treat?

Just interested to hear different opinions from vets.

A: Enlarged thyroids are almost always non-pathogenic (of little or no significance) in older horses, caused by a thyroid adenoma. In cats enlarged thyroids are usually associated with hyperthyroidism (over-active thyroid), however in horses this is virtually unheard of. So in an older animal (over 7 years) I would leave well alone unless the growth is so large that it is pressing on other local structures eg trachea or larynx.

In younger horses (especially under 2) an enlarged thyroid can be associated with a dietary imbalance of iodine, in which case I would suggest investigation starting with diet and a blood sample. Ultrasound of the region can also be helpful to confirm the location of the enlargement. These cases do require treatment according to the cause, as thyroid adenomas are not seen in such young animals.

Q: enlarged thyroid gland?
The last couple of days i have been having a wierd feeling in the throat when i swallow food or burp. It feels like there is already something in my throat when the food passes. Or if you ever have taken too big of a sip of water and it hurts going down thats what it feels like at one spot on my throat. Someone told me that this could be an enlarged thyroid gland. Does anyone know the symptoms of this or if what i’m describing could me anything else. Thanks.

A: thyroid is located in lower neck and unless grossly big does not cause difficulty with swallowing.
you have a throat problem.consult a ENT doctor and get your throat examined.

Q: how quickly does an enlarged thyroid gland grow?

A: My thyroid was normal for the first 24 years of my life, then went from the size of a marble to the size of a raquetball in about 2 years. It was very overactive and would have kept growing if I hadn’t had it taken out.

Q: is once enlarged thyroid gland will go back to its original shape…means if harmonal levels normalises. it go?
it goes back to its original shape or cosmetic surgery is must

A: Thyroid gland if is enlarged moderately, like in case of mild goitre, pregnancy, puberty, Thyroiditis etc.. I mean to say grade 1 to 3 enlarged thyroids in medical terms.. Will regress most of the times to its normal size after that period of stress… If these are the causes, do not worry… They even go back to norml size, if u are suffering from a hypothyroidism if u are initiated on the treatment with Elthroxin or Thyronorm etc…

But if its a solitary nodular enlargement, or a multinodular goitre, they regress, but cannot dissapear completely even after treatment… For these surgery might be required..

If its a diffuse enlargement and u are on treatment, than wait.. These regress on treatment.. But takes sometime, may be 6 months to 1 year…

Do not worry……….

Q: once your thyroid gland is enlarged is it possible it will ever go back to its normal size?
mine is slightly enlarged i ahve hyperthyroid with hyperthyroid medication can it bring it back to its normal size or once its enlraged it can enver go back to its normal size?? ok thnks

A: Yes, most goiters shrink once the underlying disease is treated, and the thyroid is brought back to normal.

Q: just found out i have a enlarged thyroid gland and a cyst on it. i need more help to understand it?

A: There’s are many good websites on thyroid. I’ll put a few of them below in the source section.

Are you having symptoms of hypothyroidism? They include; weight gain or the inability to lose weight, fatigue, depression, constipation, muscle & joint aches, headaches, sensitivity to light, dry skin, dry thining hair, brittle finger nails that often have ridges in them, ibs with constipation

Many times if one id hypothyroid and put on thyroid medication the nodules shrink from the added thyroid hormone. I suggest you learn as much as you can about the thyroid so that you get the best care.

Q: Enlarged thyroid gland?
I have a bump in the side of my neck that is smaller at the bottom and larger at the top, like an upside down pyramid. It is only on the left side, and I don’t feel anything strange in the middle or right side of my neck. The bump is always painful if I apply pressure. I was wondering what this was and whether I should see a doctor.
I went to the doctor because I did have enlarged lymph nodes a few weeks ago. This bump is larger though, about 1 inch at its longest. Also, I have not been feeling sick lately.

A: Your thyroid is not on the side of your neck, it’s below your adam’s apple. It sounds like you have a swollen lymph node, especially since it’s painful. If you had an illness or infection recently, that would most likely be the reason for it. If it doesn’t go away within a few weeks or gets bigger, see your doctor.

Q: i have slightly enlarged thyroid glands with diffuse parenchymal disease, what does it mean?
is diffuse parenchymal disease a serious illness? cos whenever i research the net, all i get is about thyroid cancer related answers

A: Hi Jo-ann. My advice to you would be to call your doctor and ask this question. I would want to find this information out from someone with medical knowledge, not somebody on Yahoo answers. I have Thyroid disease, and i have never even heard of Parenchymal Disease. Don’t scare yourself by things you read on the net. Ask your doctor so you can get the correct information. Good luck

Q: Is there any connection with a slightly enlarged thyroid and a head cold?
I noticed this week for the first time that my lower neck was slightly swollen (where my neck meets my collar bone). Soon after I developed a sore throat and symptoms of a head cold. Just wondering if these two things might be connected. I plan on seeing a doctor if the swelling continues in what I assume to be my thyroid gland (uniform swelling, very slight).
Actually, the thyroid is in front of and on the sides of the trachea. And, the swelling is in my lower front neck, not my lymph nodes or tonsils…

A: Yes there could be a connection. If you neck area is enlarged then it is very possible that you have an enlarged thyroid, or goiter. Often, a goiter is associated with thyroiditis which can not only cause your thyroid hormones to fluctuate, but cause a fever as well. The “cold like” symptoms can be an inflammatory response to the inflamed thyroid. If you are having other thyroid symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, tenderness in neck, increased/decreased energy, insomnia, heart palpitations, dry hair and skin, increased arthritic pains, or weight gain or loss…then it is very possible that there is a thyroid issue and you should see your doc. Hope this helps.

Q: Thyroid Gland …. 15 yrs old.? Please answer ♥?
Hi my name is Pinny and I am 15 years old.

I noticed my neck was swollen from the center and both sides and i went to my family doctor. And he told me to get a ultrasound. I went to the Hospital got and ultrasound done and then as soon as my family doctor got the report. My doctor immediately made an appointment at one of the largest childrens hospital in My city. I went there yesterday. And the doctor said i have an enlarged thyroid gland with increased vascularity. and my report said ” findings may reflect thyroiditis, of uncertain etiology. And in the right thyroid lobe, there are 2 predominately cystic nodules. and in the left thyroid lobe there is a predominantly cystic nodule.

Should I be worried ? please let me know I asked the doctor questions but he said he couldnt let me know anything until he got my report.

-Pinny.

A: Well you can technically live without your thyroid but you must take medication for the rest of your life. It is possible that they might just remove the cysts and you’ll be back to normal but if you’re thyroid is releasing too much or too little of the hormones, you’ll have to take medication. As long as they are not cancerous, then you should be ok.

Q: my 13 year old female cat has enlarged thyroid glands?
vet wants to remove them at the cost of $1200 and there would be a very high risk that my cat could die and then there is medication that she can be put on for the rest of her life that costs $30 per month. the vet really wants to do the operation instead and we can’t afford it but we can afford the pills.

A: While the surgery is the optimal correction for this procedure, many owners choose to manage hyperthyroid by medication. That is just fine as long as its controlling your cats symptoms. You may also want to call around town and find out if any of the vets in your area are liscenced to do radioactive iodine treatments, those usually work very well for these cats. Im not sure what the cost would be, definetly cheaper than surgery. If your have a exclusively feline practice in your area they could probably refer you to someone who could tell you more.

Q: Why do you think the thyroid gland enlarges in response to a deficiency of iodine in the diet?

A: Understanding Thyroid Problems — Treatment

WebMD Medical Reference

The Basics | Symptoms | Detection & Treatment

How Do I Know If I Have Them?

A doctor can diagnose hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism by testing the levels of thyroid hormones in your blood. Doctors measure hormones secreted by the thyroid itself, as well as thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), a chemical released by the pituitary gland that triggers hormone production in the thyroid.

When you are hypothyroid, higher quantities of TSH are circulating in your blood as your body attempts to foster increased production of thyroid hormones. The reverse is true with hyperthyroidism, in which TSH levels are below normal and circulating thyroid-hormone levels are high.

To determine the cause of hyperthyroidism, doctors often use radioactive iodide uptake tests, which track the amount of iodide absorbed by the thyroid gland. Iodide, obtained from the foods we eat, is a key ingredient in the manufacture of thyroid hormone, so the amount of iodide the thyroid absorbs is a reliable indicator of how much hormone the gland is producing. For this test, you must swallow a small amount of radioactive iodide in liquid or capsule form. After a predetermined wait, the doctor places an instrument over your neck to measure how much of the radioactive iodide has gathered in your thyroid.

If the results of this test suggest that the gland is collecting excessive amounts of iodide, the doctor may then conduct a radioactive iodide uptake scan. In this test, the doctor uses a special film to create a picture that shows the exact location of the radioactive iodide in your thyroid gland. The scan will reveal, for example, if the iodide is collecting in adenomas, indicating that the nodules are responsible for the excess hormone. If the scan shows that the iodide is spread equally throughout the tissue, the whole thyroid is involved in the excess production.

Some doctors believe that blood tests may not be sensitive enough to detect milder forms of hypothyroidism. Instead, they advocate monitoring your body’s basal (resting) temperature. To track your basal temperature accurately, you must closely follow certain guidelines: Shake the thermometer below 95° F at night and place it where you can reach it without getting out of bed. The following morning, before you get out of bed, take your temperature via your armpit for 10 minutes while staying as still as possible. Keep records of your temperature for at least three days. (Women should do this during the first two weeks of the menstrual cycle, as their basal temperature may rise during the latter half.) Normal basal body temperatures fall between 97.4° F and 97.8° F. If your basal temperature is consistently low, you could be mildly hypothyroid.

If you have one or more adenomas, your doctor will want to keep careful records of when they were first found and how they develop, since not all adenomas produce excess thyroid hormone. In fact, most of these nodules are not malignant, especially if they remain the same size over long intervals. (Cancerous tissue, by contrast, will undergo noticeable growth.) Nodules that appear suddenly are typically fluid-filled cysts and are often benign. They can be evaluated with a noninvasive ultrasound exam. If blood tests indicate that the nodules are producing excess thyroid hormone, and if you have other symptoms, your doctor will treat you for hyperthyroidism.

In any case, you should receive periodic checkups if you have a nodule on your thyroid gland, since you may become hyperthyroid in the future. If your blood tests show elevated hormone levels, your doctor may recommend other tests, including radioactive iodide uptake tests and scans that indicate whether the nodules are “hot” or “cold.” Hot nodules, or those that are actively trapping iodide and producing too much thyroid hormone, are rarely cancerous. But cold nodules — those showing low iodide concentrations — indicate a possible malignancy and need to be investigated further.

One type of thyroid cancer can be diagnosed through a simple blood test that measures levels of a hormone involved in bone formation. In most cases, however, doctors check for thyroid cancer by performing an aspiration, or biopsy, which involves drawing cells from the suspect nodule with a fine needle to determine if the tissue is malignant.

What Are the Treatments?

For thyroid disorders stemming from the over- or underproduction of thyroid hormones, both conventional and alternative treatments offer varied methods to restore hormone levels to their proper balance. Conventional treatments rely mainly on drugs and surgery. Alternative treatments attempt to relieve some of the discomfort associated with thyroid problems, or to improve the function of the thyroid gland through a variety of approaches ranging from diet supplements and herbal remedies to lifestyle changes and special exercises. You should always receive a professional evaluation for any thyroid disorder; most of these conditions require a course of treatment beyond the scope of home care alone.

Conventional Medicine
Treating hyperthyroidism requires suppressing the manufacture of thyroid hormone, while hypothyroidism demands hormone replacement. Conventional medicine offers extremely effective techniques for lowering, eliminating, or supplementing hormone production. Before deciding which treatment is best for you, your doctor will make an evaluation based on your particular thyroid condition as well as your age, general health, and medical history.

Thyroid hormone production can be suppressed or halted completely with a radioactive iodide treatment, antithyroid medication, or surgery. If your doctor decides that radioactive treatment is best, you will be asked to swallow a tablet or liquid containing radioactive iodide in amounts large enough to damage the cells of your thyroid gland and limit or destroy their ability to produce hormones. Occasionally, more than one treatment is needed to restore normal hormone production, and many patients actually develop hypothyroidism as a result of this procedure. This is the most common therapy for hyperthyroidism in the United States.

If you start using antithyroid medications such as propylthiouracil or methimazole, which are usually administered in tablet form, your hyperthyroid symptoms should begin to disappear in about six to eight weeks, as hormones already in your system run out and the medication starts to impair the thyroid’s hormone production. However, you will need to continue taking the medication for about a year. After that time, you will also need to receive periodic medical exams to make sure that the condition has not returned.

Surgery is often recommended for people under 45 when their hyperthyroidism is due to toxic adenomas, since these nodules tend to be resistant to radioactive iodide. Once the tissue is removed surgically, hormone levels typically return to normal within a few weeks.

Although subacute thyroiditis can bring on temporary hyperthyroidism, this condition usually does not require medical treatment. Any pain associated with the inflamed thyroid can generally be relieved with acetaminophen or aspirin. If over-the-counter drugs don’t help, a doctor may prescribe prednisone or dexamethasone — powerful anti-inflammatory drugs — for a short period of time. Since both of these drugs may encourage the development of stomach ulcers and the loss of bone mass, however, ask your doctor if you should also be taking calcium supplements.

Hypothyroidism calls for a lifelong regimen of thyroid replacement. No surgical techniques or conventional drugs can increase the thyroid’s hormone production once it slows down. Although hormones from animal extracts are available, doctors generally prescribe synthetic forms of thyroid hormone, such as levothyroxine. Side effects are rare, but some people experience nervousness or chest pain while taking these drugs; usually, adjusting the levels of medication will alleviate any unpleasant effects. However, if you are also taking tricyclic antidepressants, estrogens, the blood thinning drug warfarin, the heart drug digitalis, or if you have diabetes, make sure that you and your doctor discuss any possible interactions or other complications. If you take calcium supplements, it is also recommended to take it 4 hours apart from levothyroxine, as calcium inhibits its absorption.

Thyroid cancer is usually treated by surgically removing either the cancerous tissue or the whole thyroid gland, a procedure known as a thyroidectomy. If the cancer has spread beyond the thyroid, any other affected tissue, such as the lymph glands in the neck, will also be removed.

Alternative Medicine
Thyroid problems are usually easily corrected with conventional medicine. Consult your endocrinologist about complementing your conventional treatment with alternative therapies, which aim to cleanse the system, restore immune function, and balance hormone production and release.

Naturopathy and TCM
A naturopath may treat your thyroid condition with homeopathic mixtures, herbs, preparations based on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and acupuncture.

TCM considers thyroid disease to result from emotional distress and frustration. These block the life force energy (qi) in the liver and spleen; herbs and acupuncture release the qi. Acupuncture can reduce palpitations, irritability and insomnia.

Naturopaths are authorized to treat thyroid disease in some states; in others it is illegal. Check with your doctor or local health authority to see if your state allows naturopathic interventions.

Body Work and Nutrition
Chiropractors and osteopaths use spinal manipulation to treat thyroid disorders by reducing muscle tension and improving blood circulation.

A diet rich in protein, calcium, magnesium, and iodine supports thyroid function. You want to be sure you are receiving enough of all the B vitamins, vitamin A, vitamin C and selenium.

Avoid these products if you suffer from thyroid disease:

* The herb ephedra, found in herbal formulas, and its extracts ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, found in over-the-counter cold remedies, which can cause nervousness, insomnia, headache and high blood pressure.
* Alkaloids, including substances such as caffeine, morphine, and quinine, which increase blood pressure and heart rate.

Medically reviewed by Tracy Shuman, MD, August 2005.

SOURCES: American Academy of Family Physicians. The American Thyroid Association. EndocrineWeb.com, The Norman Endocrine Surgery Clinic. Community Health Care Medicial Library. Johns Hopkins University. US Food and Drug Administration Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. Mary Shoman, patient Advocate – About.com. T WebMD

Q: What therapy is recommended for an underactive thyroid gland?

A: They usually use Synthroid (one of the commonly used drugs) as hormone replacement therapy. Of course taking in iodine can help too, (if you don’t take in much of this.. like using iodized salt) since it is necessary to make the hormones..

Q: Underactive to overactive thyroid gland in 6 months?
I’ve been taking 25mcg levothyroxine for several years for a slightly underactive thyroid gland.
My last TSH back in January was 6.52. I have just had it rechecked and it is now 0.05! How is this possible given that I have been taking such a small amount of medication?
Also, is there a possibility that I might lurch from underactive to overactive on a regular basis now? I am female and 50. Thanksxx

A: It could be the time of day you tested as well. TSH changes throughout the day. It should always be done first thing in the morning when its near its high point. The TSH is the least reliable thyroid test because of the fluculations. A free t4 and free t3 will tell if you are really hyper now.

Q: would it be ok for me to take the contraceptive pill as i have an underactive thyroid gland?
i take thyroxine tablets everyday for my thyroid. just wondering would the contraceptive pill be dangerious

A: Being on levothyroxine in the appropriate dose, returns thyroid patients entirely to normal. Your risks on the pill would be identical to anyone else.

Q: Is it safe to take slimming pills containing bladderwrack if you have an underactive thyroid gland?

A: Slimming pills are generally bad for your health period.

Q: Could i have an underactive thyroid gland?
My symptoms are:
-Weight gain (quite big amount)
-Hair loss
-Dry skin
-Itchy eyes
-Fainting (maybe not associated)
-Constipation
-Itchy throat
-Breathing trouble (could be related to my asthma)
Is it that? or could it be something else?

A: Those are all pretty tell tale symptoms of overt hypothyroidism. Don’t go do something stupid like buying hormone supplements online, this is something worth seeing your doctor about.

He/she might have you do something as simple as change your diet, but go make sure that something else isn’t going on.

Q: My friend has an underactive thyroid gland and is really depressed, what advice can i give her?

A: She is depressed because her thyroid is under active. The doctor will give her a pill to take everyday, and it may take up to 3 months for her thyroid to balance, then she will feel great. Meanwhile, be her friend. This is a hard time for her. Some days she is so down she just doesn’t want to get out of bed. Gaining weight is not unusual. Loosing hair and fingernails splitting are also possible. Taking antidepressants does NOT work for an under active thyroid. Just be her friend.

Q: I have an underactive thyroid gland what are some of the most common side effects?
the doctor has put me on synthroid and i dont see a difference he has since increased my dosage .75mcg currently
some times i feel very weird like light headed is the best way i can describe it i have had a lot of other medical tests and have all come back normal has anyone else experienced this

A: The symptoms of hypothyroidism relate to a general “slowing down” of the body’s functions. They include:
feeling tired and sleeping excessively
easily feeling the cold
dry and thickened skin
coarse, thinning hair and eyebrows and brittle nails
sore muscles, slow movements and weakness
depression and problems with memory and concentration
weight gain
constipation
fertility problems and increased risk of miscarriage
heavy, irregular or prolonged menstrual periods
There may also be swelling of the thyroid gland in the neck – a goitre.

Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) – occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. This tends to slow down the body’s functions. Symptoms include tiredness, constipation and sensitivity to the cold.

The thyroid gland is found in the neck. It lies in front of the wind-pipe (trachea), above the level of the collar-bones and measures approximately 2 by 4 cm. It secretes hormones, which are chemicals produced by the body to help regulate how cells, and the organs made up of groups of cells, work. Hormones are sometimes called chemical messengers.

The thyroid hormones are thyroxine (also called T4 because it contains four iodine atoms) and triiodothyronine (also called T3 because it contains three iodine atoms). These are released into the blood stream.

T3 speeds up the body’s metabolism by encouraging the cells, in the muscles or the skin for instance, to work faster or to grow. Most of the T3 in the blood is converted from T4.

Over- and underactive thyroid
In hypothyroidism, the thyroid is under active, with too little of the thyroid hormones being released. In contrast, hyperthyroidism occurs when there is over-production of T3 and T4, causing the body’s metabolism to “speed up”. This results in symptoms such as anxiety and feeling hot, even in cool weather. For more information, please see the separate BUPA factsheet Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).

Hormone production
The production of T3 and T4 is regulated by another hormone called TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone or thyrotropin) which is made in the pituitary gland (found in the brain). A normal level of TSH is one of the indicators that the thyroid system is working properly.

Causes of hypothyroidism
Iodine insufficiency
The chemical element iodine is a major component of thyroid hormones. Worldwide, a deficiency of iodine in the diet is the leading cause of hypothyroidism. This is much less common in the UK because iodine is contained in salt, which has iodine added to it during manufacture.

Autoimmune hypothyroidism
In the UK, and other countries where the amount of iodine in the diet is adequate, the main cause of hypothyroidism is “autoimmune hypothyroidism”.

Antibodies are proteins designed to defend the body from foreign organisms, such as bacteria and viruses. In autoimmune diseases, antibodies attack the body itself. In autoimmune hypothyroidism, antibodies destroy thyroid gland cells preventing the gland from being able to release normal amounts of thyroid hormones.

A condition known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is associated with autoimmune hypothyroidism. It results in a goitre, a swelling of the thyroid gland, that is visible as a lump on the neck. With no goitre the condition may be called atrophic thyroiditis or primary myxoedema.

Other causes:
Congenital hypothyroidism (a condition babies are born with) happens when the thyroid gland fails to develop properly or does not produce adequate thyroid hormones. All babies in the UK are screened for this when the baby is 6-8 days old with a blood sample taken from a prick on the heel. With treatment, babies with congenital hypothyroidism develop normally.

Inflammation of the thyroid gland (thyroiditis) due to infection can lead to hypothyroidism. Also, disorders of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, both of which are involved in the overall regulation and production of thyroid hormones, can lead to hypothyroidism.

Risk factors for hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is more common in older people.
Women are more likely to be affected than men.
Autoimmune hypothyroidism is more likely in those who have other conditions resulting from an autoimmune disorder such as type 1 diabetes mellitus, vitiligo and Addison’s disease.
Some medicines can affect the normal functioning of the thyroid gland. These include lithium carbonate (for bipolar disorder) and amiodarone (for heart rhythm abnormalities).
Symptoms of hypothyroidism
The symptoms of hypothyroidism can initially be very mild and develop slowly. It is possible to have some of these symptoms before the amount of thyroid hormone drops below normal.

This type of mild hypothyroidism is called subclinical hypothyroidism. People affected need to be monitored by their doctor, who will watch out for further symptoms.

Occasionally, a thyroid problem, such as thyroiditis, can resolve on its own without the need for treatment. However in general, if hypothyroidism is not treated, the symptoms slowly get worse and it becomes more and more difficult to function normally.

Diagnosis of hypothyroidism
Many of the above symptoms can be caused by conditions other than underactive thyroid. However, anyone who experiences these symptoms should consult their GP. A doctor will usually discuss symptoms, perform a physical examination and then request some blood tests if he or she suspects hypothyroidism.

The first step in diagnosing hypothyroidism is to measure TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone).

When the thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroid hormone, the TSH level is raised. When this abnormality is found, T4 (thyroxine) is also measured, and in autoimmune hypothyroidism or hypothyroidism due to treatment of hyperthyroidism, T4 is low.

When levels of TSH and thyroid hormones are difficult to interpret, other causes of hypothyroidism may be suspected.

The diagnosis of autoimmune hypothyroidism is usually confirmed by the presence of particular antibodies in the blood.

Other blood tests or further investigations may also be needed. These could include an ECG (heart tracing) or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan to examine the nature and extent of a goitre.

Treatment
Thyroxine (T4) can be given in tablet form. The body is able to convert this to T3 just as it would if the thyroid gland were producing the thyroxine normally. It can take some time to get the dose right. It is usual to start with a low dose, building up gradually every six weeks and adjusting the dose according to TSH levels.

People usually feel much better once they are taking thyroxine. Side-effects are unusual because a missing hormone is simply being replaced. However, if too much replacement thyroxine is given, symptoms of an overactive thyroid may be experienced.

People with subclinical hypothyroidism may not have any treatment, though doctors vary in their approach. Some prefer to offer treatment. Others recommend frequent monitoring to see whether overt hypothyroidism (with symptoms) does develop.

Once the correct dose of thyroxine replacement has been established, it is usual to have annual checks of TSH.

Pregnancy and hypothyroidism
The functioning of the thyroid gland can change during pregnancy. In the first half of pregnancy it is normal for the total amount of thyroid hormone to be slightly increased.

Women with hypothyroidism need more frequent checks during pregnancy, as their thyroxine requirements tend to increase.

Five percent of women have a mild problem with the thyroid three to six months after delivery. This has an autoimmune cause and can cause hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. Although it rarely needs treatment it does mean that thyroid problems are more likely in later life.

Further information
British Thyroid Foundation
0870 7707933

http://www.btf-thyroid.org

Q: i have an underactive thyroid gland and am taking medication for it?
just wondering if i ever want a baby will this harm the development f my child??

A: No, it will not harm the development of your baby. What you are taking is the thyroid hormone that your own body cannot produce.

Q: Any women here with an underactive thyroid gland how are you affected?

A: i do have “hypothyroidism” although it wasnt allways under-it was over for quite sometime.

i take medication everyday for it, and as long as i stick to it faithfully, i have no problems. If i skip a few days, i get dull headaches, and tired.

goto—www.webmd.com–excellent site.

Q: I have being diagnosed with an underactive thyroid gland 5 mnts ago, ne tips or ne precautions i need to know?

A: depending on your tsh levels, you will be prescribed a synthetic thyroid med….take it on an empty stomach first thing in the morning with just water. don’t eat for at least 1/2 hour and take calcium and other vitamins at least 4 hours apart….they mess with absorption. about.com and mayoclinic have lots of info on hypothyroid and you should educate yourself about it. also, there is a great yahoo health group for thyroid. It takes about 6 weeks for meds to be fully absorbed, and then you will probably have to be retested. good luck and good health.

Q: What symptons are caused by an underactive thyroid? Could swelling of the throat be the thyroid gland?
Currently on thyroid meds but having lots of symptoms like no energy, swelling on the right side of the throat, pain and weakness of the legs, edema. Does this sound like thyroid troubles?

A: Yes. youir’e having symptoms of Hypothyroidism. The dose of Throxine is low and cannot be increased very fast. Hang in there it will take time for the drug to work and later on the doctor will gradualy increase the dose. (Every three weeks).
Symptoms of underactive thyroid are feeling weak, dry skin, depressed mood, lack of energy, constipation, cold intolerance, adding weight etc.

Q: hi just got blood results back &i have an underactive thyroid gland,it runs in my family,but i dont want to?
take thyroxine,can anyone tell me anything about this condition,im just hearing negative things like [ aw you ll put on loads of weight,and you ll have to take tablets for the rest of your life ,im 39 dont smoke dont drink,am pretty active and watch what i eat, can anyone shed some light on alternative treatments or anything about this.

A: Understanding Thyroid Problems – the Basics
What Are Thyroid Problems?
Through the hormones it produces, the thyroid gland influences almost all of the metabolic processes in your body. Thyroid disorders can range from a small, harmless goiter (enlarged gland) that needs no treatment to life-threatening cancer. The most common thyroid problems involve abnormal production of thyroid hormones. Too much of these vital body chemicals results in a condition known as hyperthyroidism. Insufficient hormone production leads to hypothyroidism.

Although the effects can be unpleasant or uncomfortable, most thyroid problems can be managed well if properly diagnosed and treated.

7 Causes of Fatigue in Women

WebMD Feature

We are in the midst of a global energy crisis but it has nothing to do with oil. The problem is unexplained fatigue.

“The single biggest complaint I hear from my patients, day in and day out, is fatigue,” says cardiologist Nieca Goldberg, MD, Director of the NYU Medical Center Women’s Heart Program and associate professor at the NYU School of Medicine.

If you are getting a healthy 7 to 8 hours a night and you’re still tired, Goldberg says it’s time for a check–up to uncover the causes for fatigue.

Read more about 7 causes of fatigue in women

Related to hypothyroidism symptoms, thyroid tests, TSH, medication, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, goiter, Underactive thyroid, synthroid, hyperthyroid, depression, thyroid surgery, thyroid disorders
© 2008 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.
What Causes Thyroid Problems?
All types of hyperthyroidism are due to an overproduction of thyroid hormones, but the condition can occur in several ways:

Graves’ disease: The production of too much thyroid hormone.
Toxic adenomas: Nodules develop in the thyroid gland and begin to secrete thyroid hormones, upsetting the body’s chemical balance; some goiters may contain several of these nodules.
Subacute thyroiditis: inflammation of the thyroid causes the gland to “leak” excess hormones, resulting in temporary hyperthyroidism that generally lasts a few weeks but may persist for months.
Pituitary gland malfunctions or cancerous growths in the thyroid gland: Although rare, hyperthyroidism can also develop from these causes.
Hypothyroidism, by contrast, stems from an underproduction of thyroid hormones. Since your body’s energy production requires certain amounts of thyroid hormones, a drop in hormone production leads to lower energy levels. Causes of hypothyroidism include these:

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis: In this autoimmune disorder, the body attacks thyroid tissue. The tissue eventually dies and stops producing hormones.
Removal of the thyroid gland: The thyroid may be surgically removed or chemically destroyed as treatment for hyperthyroidism.
Exposure to excessive amounts of iodide: Cold and sinus medicines, the heart medicine amiodarone, or certain contrast dyes given before some X-rays may expose you to too much iodine. You may be at greater risk for developing hypothyroidism, especially if you have had thyroid problems in the past.
Lithium: This drug has also been linked as a cause of hypothyroidism.
Untreated for long periods of time, hypothyroidism can bring on a myxedema coma, a rare but potentially fatal condition that requires immediate hormone injections.

Hypothyroidism poses a special danger to newborns and infants. A lack of thyroid hormones in the system at an early age can lead to the development of cretinism (mental retardation) and dwarfism (stunted growth). Most infants now have their thyroid levels checked routinely soon after birth. If they are hypothyroid, treatment begins immediately. In infants, as in adults, hypothyroidism can be due to these causes:

A pituitary disorder
A defective thyroid
Lack of the gland entirely
A hypothyroid infant is unusually inactive and quiet, has a poor appetite and sleeps for excessively long periods of time.

Cancer of the thyroid gland is quite rare and occurs in less than 10% of thyroid nodules. You might have one or more thyroid nodules for several years before they are determined to be cancerous. People who have received radiation treatment to the head and neck earlier in life, possibly as a remedy for acne, tend to have a higher-than-normal propensity for thyroid cancer.

Q: i have an underactive thyroid gland?
i suffer from an underactive thyroid gland and it really is getting me down. i have put on over 1 stone in weight in just a few months. i try and be good all week to try and lose weight, then at the weekend i have a treat, what happens , any weight i might have lost is put back on.
i am 37 no spring chicken but i know , when i try i can look good, i just dont want to be fat for turning 40.
i am 5ft 3inch an 11 stone.

has any one got any answers except rigerous diet and excercise that is beyound unnatural?????
PLEASE!!!!.. I AM DESPERATE.

thanks for any advise.
i have got medication 50 mgs of levelthyroxine but it does not help with the weight. i still have a sluggish metabolism.

A: Karen, have you been to your doctor for your under-active thyroid gland? If not please see your physician, he/she can prescribe medication for it.. under-active thyroid can make you gain excessive weight, and dieting will not correct the problem. I had just the opposite problem and could not gain weight, until I got the problem corrected. It didn’t matter how many calories I consumed, I could not put on a pound, I continued to lose weight. But my doctor put me on medication that corrected the problem.. It could also damage your heart and it controls other organs too.. It can make you very nervous and tired, there are lots of symptoms that you may be over looking so please see your doctor for the sake of your health. Hope I have helped in some small way. Good Luck.

p.s. I just saw your last post, sometimes it takes a while to get the level of medication your body needs… but keep seeing the doctor until the level is corrected and talk with him/her and tell them everything even if you have to make a list to take with you to your physician.

Q: underactive thyroid?
My wife and I both have an underactive thyroid glands, are the children likely to develop the same

A: Yes, genetics play a major role.

You can give your children supplements when they grow up into the appropriate age for taking pills which isn’t too far.

Q: Any foods to be avoided or eaten more of with an underactive thyroid gland???
I have just been diagnosed with an underactive thyroid gland which has come as a great relief to me as I can’t seem to lose the weight which I have piled on(I have always been a size 8-10 but the last couple of years I have struggled to squeeze into a size 12)I am always tired and have been taking different depression medications for the last 5 years with no luck-I finally have the answer to what has been causing me this nightmare for years!I wondered are there any foods which should be avoided with an underactive thyroid or any foods which I should try to eat more of?Many Thanks.

A: You should be able to eat whatever you please (being sensible of course and not eating junk foods). As your metabolism returns to normal on the thyroxine, you should find you start to lose the weight you have gained.

Q: What are the symptoms of defects in thyroid gland in adults?
What are the symptoms of defects in thyroid gland in adults?

A: the thing to consider here is that a defect in thyroid gland can either cause it to be working too much (hyperthyroidism) or not working enough (hypothyroidism)

in hyperthyroidism (too much thyroid hormone), symptoms include: high heart rate, palpitations (feeling your heart pumping too fast), chest pain, tremors and shakiness, weight loss, diarrhea, increased reflexes, warm moist skin, fine hair, heat intolerance (getting hot easily)

hypothyroidism (not enough thyroid hormone), symptoms include: cold intolerance (getting cold easily), low activity, slow reflexes, weight gain, constipation, weakness, swelling around the eyes or face, dry cool skin, coars brittle hair

Q: Hyperactive Thyroid Gland symptoms and damages muscles.?
I was diagnosed with a Hyperactive Thyroid Gland when I was 14…

Had periods of frustration and not wanting to take the medication.. So, I was on and off the Carbimazole…. I suppose it was a juvinile way of not wanting to admit to myself that I had to rely on the medication…

Apparently, doing this – prolonged periods of not taking the medication can

1) Damage your heart

2) Kill the muscles in your legs…??

My Doctor tells me the problem is now under control, but actually, now, when I do long distance walks (with a back pack on) I get severe cramps and extreme pain in my legs that I cannot continue walking…..!!!! Sometimes I can’t feel my legs at all!!

What’s happening there..??

Is it related to the past problem / not taking medication for Hyperactive Thyroid Gland..???

Cheers.

B.

A: Hyperthyroidism is characterized by hypermetabolism and elevated serum levels of free thyroid hormones. Symptoms are many but include tachycardia, fatigue, weight loss, and tremor. Diagnosis is clinical and with thyroid function tests. Treatment depends on cause. Consult your doctor.
Please see the web pages for more details on Hyperthyroidism.

Q: With no thyroid gland what symptoms would a very LOW tsh give me?
On 88mcg of levoxyl daily

A: A low TSH can give you anxiety, insomnia, weight loss or gain, increased heart rate/BP, hair loss, heat intolerance, excessive sweating, and the list goes on.

Q: Anyone had problems with their thyroid gland? what were your symptoms?
I went to the doctor and told her that my neck sometimes got a bit swollen. She checked it out and at first glance she said I might have a thyroid problem and possibly a goiter. I took the blood test and everything came back normal. I was wondering what were some of the symptoms of someone who has had it. Could it be that there is something wrong but not noticable yet? Some of the things that I have been experiencing is persistant nausea, breathing problem which is not caused by asthma, and some more than usual hair loss. Is this something that could be related? Any information would help. Thanks.

A: Yes, the symptoms you describe sound like a thyroid problem. There are two types of thyroid problems: hyperthryoidism (when your thyroid gland is overactive–producing too much thyroid hormones) and hypothyroidism (when your thyroid gland is underactive). Both have symptoms of goiter. Goiter is an enlarged thyroid gland that can interfere with swallowing, breathing and may cause swelling in the neck. More oftenly, it is associated with hyperthyroidism. Other symptoms of hyperthyroidism include: weight loss, increased anxiety, increased heart rate, increased appetite, fatigue, hair loss, nausea/vomiting, and many others, including menstrual irregularities.

Hyperthyroidism is very common in young women, and can be easily treated. According to the symptoms you describe, it sounds like you may have hyperthyroidism. I would go see a different doctor (possibly an endocrinologist) who can do a more thorough test on you to see if indeed you have hyperthyroidism. Lab tests can be normal and you can still have a thyroid problem. That’s why it’s better to see someone who specializes in it. Good luck!

Q: Can anyone give me any symptoms of having just been discovered as having an overactive thyroid gland?

A: an overactive thyroid gland can show the following symptoms:
Enlargement of thyroid gland (about 2-3 times its normal size)
Bulging eyeballs, Staring gaze
Heat intolerance
Warm moist and salty skin
Nervousness
Trembling hands
Fast heart rate (Palpitations)
Breathlessness
Insomnia (loss of sleep)
Increased bowel movements
Weight loss
Muscle weakness
Hair loss
Light or absent menstrual periods

Q: what are symptoms of Thyroid gland? and what does it experiences?

A: Symptoms of Hypothyroidism (An underactive thyroid)

fatigue, exhaustion
feeling run down and sluggish
depression
difficulty concentrating, brain fog
unexplained or excessive weight gain
dry, coarse and/or itchy skin
dry, coarse and/or thinning hair
feeling cold, especially in the extremities
constipation
muscle cramps
increased menstrual flow
more frequent periods
infertility/miscarriage

Symptoms of Hyperthryodisim (An overactive thyroid)

nervousness
irritability
increased perspiration
thinning of your skin
fine brittle hair
muscular weakness especially involving the upper arms and thighs
shaky hands
panic disorder
insomnia
racing heart
more frequent bowel movements
weight loss despite a good appetite
lighter flow, less frequent menstrual periods

If you suspect a problem, have your doctor run a thyroid panel which includes the tests: Free T4, Free T3, TSH, TPO, Ferrtin, and have your Adrenal fucntions tested as well. Many people who have thyroid problems also have weak adrenal function.

Q: Does your thyroid gland have to be swollen for you to have a thyroid problem?
I have all of the symptoms of a thyroid problem except a swollen thyroid gland. So does it sound like I have a thyroid problem or does it sound like a different problem?

A: No, it does NOT have to be swollen and you should NOT be diagnosed on a thyroid blood panel only! Especially if the doc only blood tests for TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone). If he/she does then run do not walk from their office. TSH is your body’s thermostat which is secreted by your Pituitary Gland.

I learned the hard way from experience and now due to doctor’s misconceptions I had to have my thyroid surgically removed. I missed thyroid cancer by a hair width. I will be taking 2 pills 3 times per day for the rest of my life because of doctors solely relying on blood tests. I had a sub-clinical thyroid condition (meaning blood tests within the normal to low normal range) which later resulted in a autoimmune disease thyroid condition. I should have been diagnosed based on symptoms, but it takes a doc with a lot of knowledge to think outside the 4-corners of their medical textbook and guts too. My symptoms began 15 years ago and it took 15 years to hit rock bottom for my disease to surface on blood tests but then it became an autoimmune disease and was TOO LATE. Autoimmune disease is where your immune system turns against you and it begins to attack your body.

Also, I found that specialists such as Endocrinologists were the least informed. I found that they were quick to push mental health drugs treating only the symptoms and not getting to the root of the real problem. Go to the library and SELF-EDUCATE, read all books by patient advocate Mary J. Shomon, Doctors Ridha Ahrem and Steven F. Hotze. Once you learn just how important the thyroid is to your body’s well being and how it functions, then you will be able to connect the dots. You know your body better than anyone.

If you can remember one key important fact which is that some/most doctors medicate using the T-4 hormone (a thyroid pro-hormone) only, but a patient’s problem could lie with the assimilation of the T-3 hormone (the thyroids active hormone). After T-4 enters cells it must be converted into T-3 which is the active active form of thyroid hormone (active OUTSIDE of your blood stream) it is what effects your mental health (depression), memory, fatigue, body temperature, muscle strength, cholesterol level, weight, hair, skin, nails, etc. A complete hormone panel is key too (estrogens, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, cortisol,melatonin). I prefer hormone testing using saliva over blood, which unfortunately, the majority of insurance plans do not cover. I feel it is money well spent.

Good Luck and Be Well.

Q: can you give me a more details on symptoms on a overactived thyroid gland?

A: The best advice anyone can give you is to get your medical advice from a Professional Doctor or Professional Nurse — If you rely on all of us crazy people on the internet you are asking for a trip through Death’s Door !!!!!

Q: Should the medication INDERAL be taken for symptoms that happen because of the thyroid gland?
ARE THERE ANY DOCTORS OUT THERE?

A: if you have a thyroid problem, have a doctor determine what medicine you need.

Q: Overactive Thyroid symptoms after treatment.?
After i get treatment for my overactive thyroid gland will the symptoms like sweating, nervousness and shaky hands go away???
thanks

A: Hi jake yes they will but it will take approximately eight weeks for it to make a difference but you will feel better. I have an under active thyroid and I have been on medication for over four years now,just make sure that you have your regular blood tests so they can monitor whether to increase or decrease your dose or even keep it as it is that’s what the tests are for.

Q: what are the symptoms of an over/underactive thyroid gland?

A: Overactive – loosing weight, heart palpitations, shaking hands, heat intolerance, greasy hair / acne, bulging eyes, gritty eyes – basically your body overworking because its got too much thyroid hormone in your blood. These are the symptoms I had before treatment.

Underactive – putting on weight or unable to loose any weight, feeling the cold, dry skin, headaches, pins and needles, tiredness – the opposite of overactive, in that your body does not have enough thyroid hormone. These are the symptoms I have now that I’ve gone the opposite end of the scale due to RAI treatment.

Q: How does under-active thyroid glands affect you? What symptoms shows that you have under-active thyroid glands?
Does under-active thyroid gland affect the height of someone?

A: Lethargy, weight gain, water retention, low immunity

Q: I had my thyroid gland removed 44 years ago,never took meds,do I have to start taking them now?
I am 77 years old,I had my thyroid gland totally removed.I was never put on any meds.I recently had tia’s and the doctor now says that I should take Synthroid.I have never had any symptoms of hypo or hyper.I can not afford to go get blood tests and scans
every 3 mos.

A: If the doctor prescribed Synthroid after a blood test then it might be in your best interest to take them and try to stay monitored. There is a possibility that a small portion of thyroid was left and grew to accommodate you. If your doctor did not test your levels, ask them to. Hypo and Hyper have very subtle side effects that can hardly be noticeable or extreme like loosing all of your hair. One of the results of uncontrolled thyroid can be death. So, do not fool around. Find a way to get tested and stay monitored.

Q: I recently underwent an ultra-sound of my thyroid gland and it was quite painful. Is this normal?
The ultra sound was done on my neck. The center and the right side was more painful than my left side. Is this a symptom of thyroid problems?

A: Hi Meyling M, Good luck with your thyroid. First thing is, I assume you were either having some issues – or possibly had a check up and your doctor felt your thyroid may be enlarged in order for him/her to order an ultrasound. If its enlarged it may be tender.

My younger sister had thyroid cancer so I have to have my thyroid ultra sounded yearly. I have never experienced true ‘pain’ but it can definitely be uncomfortable and unpleasant. I think sometimes the tech really needs to push on areas to get a clear reading.

Did they do some blood tests as well? My thyroid is abnormally shaped and has cysts on it but because it is functioning properly (normal blood tests) they just continue to watch it. If you DO have a problem- please stay on top of it. It is AMAZING how much the thyroid has a hand in!

If it’s something serious (like cancer-God forbid) they simply remove it and give you radiation (I’m sure all patients are different). If you have it removed you have to stay on medication for your life and it takes some time to adjust but thyroid cancer is very rarely life threatening (so they tell me). If you end up having problems, and want someone to talk to that has first hand experience- let me know and I can get you in touch with my sister. She’s very knowledgeable (and sweet) First star I see tonight I will wish on that yours is normal. Take care!

Q: What is the problem with my thyroid gland?
I have been experiencing chest pain, anxiety, palpatations, episodes of breathlessness/lightheadedness, numbness in localised areas on my arm and head. I have been to the dr and hospital, had numerous ECG’s and recently had a blood test that came back fine apart from the need to test my thyroid again in a month. Why do they need to test it again? what does my thyroid do to make me have these symptoms? how can it be treated?

A: It sounds like you might have a slightly overactive thyroid gland, the thyroid stimulates cell growth by releasing a hormone called thyroxin. When the thyroid gland is overactive it can produce the symptoms you describe. It is treatable. However, if it is overactive at the moment is must only be borderline otherwise your Dr would have commenced treatment. Sometimes these things are transitory and settle of their own accord which is why you need to have it rechecked. Your Dr will keep an eye on it and if it becomes necessary to have treatment will tell you.

Q: 14 and i have overactive thyroid gland does any1 else my age have it?
is there any1 who is 14 and suffers with overactive thyroid gland if so it would be lovely to talk to them

A: im 15 and ive got that 2 only mine is underactive = tiered all the time Lol

Q: Anyone had any experience of a cat with an overactive thyroid gland?
One of our cats has been losing weight steadily, and so took her to vet on Friday. Blood test results show an overactive thyroid. First line of treatment is tablets.

Anyone know how effective these are, how long she will need to stay on them (am presuming life) and is there other treatment available?

Spoke to vet on Monday when he phoned with results, but haven’t seen him yet to really discuss options – so wondered if anyone else could shed some light on this for me.

A: My cat is borderline on this, and on vet’s advice, we are just keeping an eye on it at the moment.
I was told if he gets worse, the options are tablets, or thyroid gland removal plus tablets. It is a lifetime treatment. I volunteer for Cats’ Protection, and in the last few months we have had this happen to two. One was done only a few days ago, but sadly the first one was too far gone before she came to us, and had to be euthanized. She was such a little darling, too, but was just a skin covered skeleton. Treatment came too late, owner didn’t deal with in time. It wasn’t fair to keep her struggling.
It sounds as though you are a caring owner, so your furball is in good hands. But vet is the expert, be guided by his advice.
BTW. Had a human friend with this, she had the radiation treatment, and thyroid now underactive. Have never come across a cat which has had that treatment.

Q: How is treatment for an overactive thyroid gland decided?
This disease is assumed to be variable with peaks and troughs with rather vague symptoms.

Is there a scientific test and what are the figures to look for?

A: my partner has just had treatment for this done (radio iodine), he was put on three different types of medication before this but none worked, so this was the option left, although he had to sign a disclaimer not to sue the nhs, if he gets cancer of the thryroid or cancer of the gut! because the chances are now a lot higher for him, but if he had not have had this done he could have been dead sooner, because he every syptom there is, sweating, shaking, loss of weight very rapidly, heart beating to fast, very tired all the time, faint, and terrible gut acid. It was first noticed when he was 23 years old, he lost a lot of weight very quickly and tested him for diabetes and an over active thyroid, he had the latter of the two! syptoms vary and if you suspect you could have this then get tpo a doctor because if its left untreated it can get very serious, xx

Q: How could the radioisotope iodine -131 be used to IDENTIFY an overactive thyroid gland?
How is the radiation produced by this isotope DETECTED, though?

It only produces beta radiation?

A: I understood it was a gamma AND beta emitter? I think I-123 is mainly used for imaging, anyway, and I-131 is mainly used for ablation (though you can use I-131 for imaging)

Q: What might be the consequences of having a overactive thyroid gland?

A: i was malnourished, couldn’t absorb much of my food, constant going to the bathroom, muscle loss, memory loss, hair loss, anger/temper issues, hot, not sleeping much, hyper personality, panic attacks, thinning skin, my eyes have been ok, but they can bulge out, weird skin conditions, hypertension, wow, so much more! it sucks! but, i took low dose of meds, now i’m in remission, thank God.

Q: What kind of Herbal or Vegetables that can help to lower the iodine produce by the overactive thyroid gland?
Im still have hyperthyroidism and until now i dont have a planned to go to the doctors and treated by radioactive iodine due to the financial problem. I really need your suggestion regarding this matter

Thanks

A: OK, several points to straighten out here.

The thyroid does not produce iodine. It uses the iodine that you eat and turns it into thyroid hormones. So eat less iodine. First of all, you need to give up iodized salt completely. Also seafood, seaweed, carageenan, and dairy are all high in iodine. Beyond that, don’t worry about it too much. You have to have thyroid hormones in order to live. And your thyroid needs iodine in order to produce thyroid hormones. Therefore you must consume iodine. Just try not to consume excess iodine. Stay away from the really high iodine foods, and don’t worry about the rest of your iodine intake.

There are substances called goitregens that interfere with the thyroid’s ability to product thyroid hormones. Some goitregens are soy, and crucufirous vegitables like brocolli. Increasing your intake of these foods could lower your thyroid levels slightly.

Next, hyperthyroidism is only a SYMPTOM. It is not a disease. What is the cause of your hyperthyroidism? Is it Grave’s disease?

You have made one good decision so far. Never, never, never have RAI for Grave’s disease. It will ruin your health permanently. It isn’t a proper treatment for Grave’s disease, because if you have RAI, you will still have Grave’s disease. This is the part doctors don’t tell you. They tell you that RAI is a cure, and it isn’t. RAI does not cure Grave’s disease. RAI can actually make Grave’s disease worse. RAI can make Grave’s disease attack your eyes. So you will still have Grave’s disease after RAI, plus possibly Grave’s opthalmopathy, and also an additional disease – iteragenic hypothyroidism. And the hypothyroidism will make you miserable for the rest of your life.

However, you can also ruin your health permanently by letting your Grave’s disease go untreated. Or you can die of a thyroid storm or heart failure. You need treatment. The correct treatment for Grave’s disease is methimizole (or PTU in the UK). And methimizole is as cheap as drugs come. So you need a new doctor who knows this, and you need a prescription for methimizole.

Q: Does anybody know how to slow down an overactive thyroid gland, Product or Food that can help.?
I will be seeing a doctor soon, but i need help until then.

A: Assuming hat this is a medical diagnosis made after endocrine blood tests. ( And I suspect it might not be, or your physician would have already given you the options!)

There are ONLY 3 possible managements
1) Anti-thyroid drugs, usually carbimazole
2) Radio Iodine treatment
3) Sub-total thyroidectomy

There are no dietary or ‘natural’ solutions.

Q: Underactive to overactive thyroid gland in 6 months?
I’ve been taking 25mcg levothyroxine for several years for a slightly underactive thyroid gland.
My last TSH back in January was 6.52. I have just had it rechecked and it is now 0.05! How is this possible given that I have been taking such a small amount of medication?
Also, is there a possibility that I might lurch from underactive to overactive on a regular basis now? I am female and 50. Thanksxx

A: It could be the time of day you tested as well. TSH changes throughout the day. It should always be done first thing in the morning when its near its high point. The TSH is the least reliable thyroid test because of the fluculations. A free t4 and free t3 will tell if you are really hyper now.

Q: Are your chances of becoming pregnant lessened by having an overactive thyroid gland?

A: Thyroid issues can certainly affect your fertility. Your thyroid regulates the cells in your body. Even if it didn’t keep you from getting pregnant, it could keep you from maintaining the pregnancy.

“Every cell in the body depends upon thyroid hormones for regulation of their metabolism.” – http://www.endocrineweb.com/thyfunction.html

Q: Can anyone give me any symptoms of having just been discovered as having an overactive thyroid gland?

A: an overactive thyroid gland can show the following symptoms:
Enlargement of thyroid gland (about 2-3 times its normal size)
Bulging eyeballs, Staring gaze
Heat intolerance
Warm moist and salty skin
Nervousness
Trembling hands
Fast heart rate (Palpitations)
Breathlessness
Insomnia (loss of sleep)
Increased bowel movements
Weight loss
Muscle weakness
Hair loss
Light or absent menstrual periods

Q: Overactive thyroid gland medicine+pregnancy?
It has just been discovered,that I have overactive thyroid glands and got NEOMERCAZOLE Carbimazole pills to cure. I am off of my contraceptive pills since just a month and planning a baby.Forgot to ask, from doc.if it is harmful for the baby(if I get pregnant during taking the medication) or not. She asked me if I am pregnant though – which I am not-but what if I will be?Wiil go back later, meantime I wanna know if anyone could help-much appreciated.
Thanks!

A: Carbimazole crosses the placenta but, provided the mother’s dose is within the standard range and her thyroid status is monitored; there is no evidence of neonatal thyroid abnormalities. Studies have shown that the incidence of congenital malformations is greater in the children of mothers whose hyperthyroidism has remained untreated than in those who have been treated with carbimazole.

However, very rare cases of congenital malformations have been observed following the use of carbimazole or its active metabolite methimazole during pregnancy.

A causal relationship of these malformations, especially choanal atresia and aplasia cutis congenital (congential scalp defects), to transplacental exposure to carbimazole and methimazole cannot be excluded.

Therefore the use of carbimazole in non-pregnant women of childbearing potential should be based on individual risk/benefit assessment.

Q: Thyroid gland overactive?
my brother is 25 and has overactive thyroid glands and it causes him to go numb in the mornings when he is waking up…what causes this???
what do we do.

A: It’s called Graves Disease & he should be under the care of an Endocrinologist. He needs to be on medication immediately. Untreated it can be quite serious & in some cases even fatal. Get him an appointment asap. If he is taking something, the dosage may need to be adjusted or changed as it isn’t working. Hope this helps! Good luck!

Q: overactive thyroid gland …………?
please may you list all the symptoms of an overactive thyroid gland, im 16 by the way if it makes any difference

A: http://www.thyroid.org/patients/patient_brochures/hyperthyroidism.html

Go to that link and you will find all you need to know.

Q: overactive thyroid gland and panic disorder?
i’ve just been diaganoised with an overactive thyroid could that cause my anxiety also?

A: i am not positively sure if that could be the cause of your anxiety. ask your endocrinolgists to be sure.

i do know that your thyroids regulate the rest of your body and if your body is not regulated u could develop other problems. so it does make sense to me that the thyroid could cause anxiety.

i have underactive thyroids and noticed that at times my heart does race when i am at rest. it feels like i am going to get an anxiety attack but i don’t.

Q: severe overactive thyroid gland?
i know i have this. is there anything i can do to help this like home remedies? thanks
i been tested for this 6 months ago and it cleared up. now its becoming a problem(of course now i dont have health insurance) my gland is swelled up and im tired is there anything that will help this out?like home remedies?when should i seek medical treatment? thanks

A: Overactive thyroid gland does not just clear up! You need to take meds everyday of your life! There are no home remedies, sorry. You really need to get back into the Dr.

Q: Does your thyroid gland have to be swollen for you to have a thyroid problem?
I have all of the symptoms of a thyroid problem except a swollen thyroid gland. So does it sound like I have a thyroid problem or does it sound like a different problem?

A: No, it does NOT have to be swollen and you should NOT be diagnosed on a thyroid blood panel only! Especially if the doc only blood tests for TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone). If he/she does then run do not walk from their office. TSH is your body’s thermostat which is secreted by your Pituitary Gland.

I learned the hard way from experience and now due to doctor’s misconceptions I had to have my thyroid surgically removed. I missed thyroid cancer by a hair width. I will be taking 2 pills 3 times per day for the rest of my life because of doctors solely relying on blood tests. I had a sub-clinical thyroid condition (meaning blood tests within the normal to low normal range) which later resulted in a autoimmune disease thyroid condition. I should have been diagnosed based on symptoms, but it takes a doc with a lot of knowledge to think outside the 4-corners of their medical textbook and guts too. My symptoms began 15 years ago and it took 15 years to hit rock bottom for my disease to surface on blood tests but then it became an autoimmune disease and was TOO LATE. Autoimmune disease is where your immune system turns against you and it begins to attack your body.

Also, I found that specialists such as Endocrinologists were the least informed. I found that they were quick to push mental health drugs treating only the symptoms and not getting to the root of the real problem. Go to the library and SELF-EDUCATE, read all books by patient advocate Mary J. Shomon, Doctors Ridha Ahrem and Steven F. Hotze. Once you learn just how important the thyroid is to your body’s well being and how it functions, then you will be able to connect the dots. You know your body better than anyone.

If you can remember one key important fact which is that some/most doctors medicate using the T-4 hormone (a thyroid pro-hormone) only, but a patient’s problem could lie with the assimilation of the T-3 hormone (the thyroids active hormone). After T-4 enters cells it must be converted into T-3 which is the active active form of thyroid hormone (active OUTSIDE of your blood stream) it is what effects your mental health (depression), memory, fatigue, body temperature, muscle strength, cholesterol level, weight, hair, skin, nails, etc. A complete hormone panel is key too (estrogens, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, cortisol,melatonin). I prefer hormone testing using saliva over blood, which unfortunately, the majority of insurance plans do not cover. I feel it is money well spent.

Good Luck and Be Well.

Q: I have a swollen thyroid gland in my neck?
I have a swollen thyroid gland in my neck.?
I dont know how long my neck been swollen i just felt my neck the other day and it was swollen.From the beginning of this year i have been itching,lost weight, lost muscle mass,weakness,nausea, headaches that comes from my neck etc.I have been to the hospital 3 times and no help because i have no insurance.Well i started a new job and i get my insurance in 30 days.Should i wait till then to go back to to the hospital.

A: I wouldn’t wait for 30 days, and I wouldn’t go to the hospital. Medical doctors are trained to drug and cut.

A better bet would be to find a good chiropractor/nutritional specialist to help. Your symptoms could indicate several things. You could have some nutritional deficiency (even though you think you eat well), and you would be surprised what nutritional deficiencies can cause.

Or, you may be coming into contact with something that your body is over-sensitive to, and there are nutritional supplements to help allergies. Some chiropractors can test you for sensitivities. More and more insurance plans are covering chiropractic.

Q: Swollen thyroid gland for 15 years?
Hello, I am 30 and I have swollen thyroid gland ever since I remember. There is no lump protruding or swollen lymph. My neck looks puffy evenly. While doctors always look at my thyroid, they never bothered to test it. My thyroid blood work is normal always. Recently I visited a doc and he wanted to do a scan. I am really worried, keep googling. Can someone share what could be the reason?

A: hi hun well you def have what is called a goiter now what is causing can be a lack of iodine do you ahve iodine salt since your lab is normal then that can be a cause or you can have another endocrin gland not working rite like say maybe the pituitary gland in your brain do you have headaches? because if you thyroid gland is normal levels it can be another gland affected your thyroid you can also have a thyroid nodule that is secreting some stuff to make it enlarge that is def good they are doing a scan is this your first scan of the thyroid becuase 15 years is a long wait but do not worry this sounds like something treatable just sorry for the long wait and dont think its cancer becuase if it was you would be really sick by now after 15 years!!!good luck

Q: Thyroid gland swollen and fingers tremor?
Whenever I move my pinky finger to a certain position it starts to shake or tremor badly. It is only when I stretch it out to the side and my thyroid gland is swollen…Any ideas why this is happening. It just started an hour ago

A: you need to see a doc .your condition maybe hyperthyroidism or execess thyroxine in the blood

Q: Swollen thyroid gland?
When the thyroid gland is swollen and feels hard is it definately cancer? i have two what seems like small balls at the front middle of my neck. the doctor ordered i get blood tests and im really worried.

A: No its not definitely cancer. In October 2008 I found one single lump in my neck, it didn’t go away for 2weeks. Went to the doctors and they told me that it may be something ’sinister’. Blood tests were taken and nothing turned up. So I was sent to a different doctor, still nothing was found out. I was then sent to a thyroid specialist.. I had a biopsy on it. Again they couldn’t tell what the lump was. I was told that the lump was a tumor of some sort and that it was either malignant or benine, they couldn’t tell until it was out what it actually was. I had a choice to make, get it out or keep it in and get it treated. So I chose to get it out. In september 2009 I had my thyroid and the lump removed on the right side of my neck, left a scar, and I found out it was benine wooo it wasn’t cancerous!!

Don’t get scared. It may not be that bad.

On the other hand I know a lady who had the same as me but it was cancerous.. Shes fine now though no more cancer..

If you wanna talk about it e-mail me

blinux@yahoo.com

Hope I helped!!!

Q: swollen thyroid gland?
lately i’ve had the feeling of my the area of my throat where my thyroid is being swollen. when i swallow, feels like there’s something there, that kind of swelling. not a tonsil though, but the same feeling if you’ve ever had swollen tonsils. there is no pain but i do have other symptoms of a slow thyroid. anyone have any info on this before i blow money at the dr.’s office?

A: ask your doc for an ultrasoud and thyroid panel blood test…this would rule out goiter…good luck………

Q: Thyroid Gland Swollen?
Went to my doc. yesturday and he said that my thyroid gland was swollen, should I be worried? has anyone else outhere experienced this? ifso what was the outcome. The doc. says it will take 7-10 days to get the blood results, meanwhile All kinds of thoughts are going throuh my mind!

A: Coming from a family that has thyroid problems, I can assure you that probably nothing is wrong. Additionally if something is “abnormal” it doesn’t mean that it is bad. Thyroid problems are super common especially in women, but if you haven’t been noticing anything else except swollen glands (like hair loss, weight gain, feeling freezing no matter what, etc) then you likely have nothing to worry about. Glands get swollen because of being sick or overtired, etc. Sometimes glands get growth around them also which is often harmless as well. In the case that something is the matter, I also recommend you seek a second opinion– not necessarily to refute that something is wrong but to make sure you get the proper treatment. Different doctors handle things different ways and you want to do your research and get the best available. Good luck and don’t worry

Q: My thyroid gland is very swollen since i was a child, now i am a young adult and it is still swollen.?
Its very uncomfortable when i take pictures, and when i wear sorting clothes. It does not bother health wise so far. But it is still hard for my body to get on birth Control, i feel very sick on it. Does it have to anything with it? And can this deformed gland affect my pregnancy one day?

A: You might have a goiter (enlarged thyroid) or nodule. Your thyroid gland should not be bothering you. I think you should go to your doctor and explain what your are feeling. Also, some thyroid diseases can affect your ability to get pregnant, so it’s best to treat your problem before getting pregnant.

Q: Swollen thyroid?
Just my tentative diagnosis:

Retrosternal goiter pressing on viens to neck and head – in the hole at the top of the rib cage. (Thyroid gland in front of neck swells up to large size and goes down into chest through said hole.) Makes breathing difficult on occasion, especially apparently when stomach large, because the lungs have restricted volume into which to expand?

Feel faint when stand from bending position, especially if worked in bending position. Ditto when look up or, less so, to the side.

Ditto if take deep breath, hold it, release breath – then, after release faintness (mention because had x-ray yesterday).

Ditto if don’t wear glasses, sometimes.

Ditto a bit if talk.

Anybody know anything about this sort of thing?

A: These articles may be of interest:

http://www.emedicine.com/med/topic916.htm

http://www.ispub.com/ostia/index.php?xmlFilePath=journals/ija/vol10n1/goiter.xml

http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/klu/268/2006/00000030/00000011/00000011

http://lib.bioinfo.pl/pmid:16544733

BUT overall you need to get some medical advice (NOT Yahoo Answers!) as it is possible that to ascertain that something else unpleasant is or iss not there, and or determine whether surgery is necessary, this is the only sensible thing to do.

Q: Dull Headache, Sore Neck, Swollen left thyroid gland?
Hi, I am wondering if someone could maybe help me figure out whats wrong with me. Its nothing too severe, so telling me to go to the doctor won’t help…as I probably will if it persists or worsens…I am not stupid . So onto the symptoms, they are: Swollen left side of neck, assuming thyroid glands as its right under my chin and hurts when I swallow, but I could be wrong…Sore back of my tongue more so than a sore throat, a very dull lingering headache that I feel particularly at the sides of my head and the front, even a bit in the middle, its like a pulsing dull pain…and my neck is also sore. I don’t know if this has anything to do with my problem, or not but I find my vision lately has become a bit more blurry than usual. This could be due to my “ailment” or simply to the fact that I play too much world of warcraft. I’ve also had some strange bumps/rashes arise within the past few weeks as well. Again, not sure if that has anything to do with it.

Thanks for your help, looking forward to reading some answers.
Also having pain behind my ears, forgot to add that
Edit: Thanks to barb for telling me they’re actually my lymph nodes, much appreciated thanks for the input

A: Those are lymph glands, not your thyroid. The thyroid is more toward the base of the throat in the middle (like where the Adam’s apple would be if you were a guy). Probably have a low-grade virus. Push fluids, get plenty of rest, and take medication for your aches as needed (with the advice of an adult).

Q: Can certain foods, like raw spinach or other greens, cause your thyroid gland to swell?
I have been eating lots, and I mean LOTS of fresh produce, especially strong tasting lettuce/greens from my friend’s garden and my thyroid gland in my neck has become swollen, and feels quite uncomfortable. Does anyone have experience re this? Thanks!

A: Yes, eating too many of a certain type of veggie can cause thryoid problems, or it can make you more aware of the thryoid problems you already have.

What you are experiencing is called a goiter.

A number of commonly eaten foods have been shown to interfere with the use of iodine by the thyroid, thus reducing production of thyroid hormone and causing goiter. These foods, known as goitrogens, include vegetables in the Brassica family such as broccoli, cabbage, kale and mustard,17 millet,18 soybeans,19 pine nuts20 and some seed meals used in animal feeds.21, 22 These foods can be safely eaten in moderate amounts by people who consume adequate iodine.23 A combination of low iodine intake and high intake of goitrogenic foods increases the likelihood of goiter.24, 25

Nutrient deficiencies, including zinc,26manganese27 and vitamin A,28, 29 and severe protein malnutrition30 also contribute to an inability to use iodine well and to the development of goiter.31, 32 In the presence of adequate iodine supplies, it is less common for such factors to cause goiter;33, 34 however, when iodine intake becomes deficient, even mild malnutrition can have such a negative impact on thyroid function.35, 36 High levels of minerals such as calcium and magnesium, and certain bacteria in drinking water, have also been shown to be goitrogenic.37, 38 Therefore, proper nutrition and a healthy water supply are crucial in the prevention and treatment of goiter.

If I were you, I’d make an appointment with my doctor, and ask him to test your TSH, your Free T3 and Free T4. Then if those come back outside of the ranges (or in the bottom 1/4 of the ranges-low), I’d look for a good Thyoid Doctor.

I believe there is even a Top Doc Thyroid website or something…ah, yes:

http://www.thyroid-info.com/topdrs/

Good luck.

Q: Did Cytomel cause my thyroid gland to swell up?
I have been on Cytomel for about 2 months. Around 2 weeks ago, I thought my double-chin looked a little more doubled. Then 3 days ago, I really noticed my thyroid gland is swollen up!

The soonest appointment I could get with my Endo is in about 3 weeks.

Could the Cytomel have caused this? Is this something I need to be seen for right away?

A: If dose is too small on RARE occasions it can happen.

Q: Question about the Thyroid gland. Is there anything you can do if it is swollen?
My husband got a cold about a month ago now, and just about the time he was getting over it he started getting this kind of lump in his throat. It made it hard to breathe and swallow at times but otherwise was just there. We did some personal research on what it could be and we discovered it was his Thyroid that was swollen.

We went to the doctor to have it checked out. He suggested we do an ultra sound to make sure there are no groiters or nodules, which there weren’t, but it was swollen. Also, at the doctor, he ran a blood test on his hormones and found that all his hormone levels are fine, at least the hormones that would effect his thyroid gland.

So now we are waiting to see a specialist for the thyroid because we don’t know what is causing the swelling.

My question then is: Has anyone ever had swelling in the thyroid? If so what did you do about it or did it go away on its own over time?

Thanks!

A: One of my friends parents had it once they removed part of the gland.
here is a site that might help you.

http://www.patient.co.uk/pdf/pilsL715.pdf

Q: Swollen thyroid means?!?!?
I went to the doctor today for swollen salivary glands and she told me that my thyroid gland was swollen. She made me take a blood test. What am I being tested for? The bottom of my tongue is swollen and extremely painful, was the cause of my concern.

A: I had a swollen thyroid gland after the birth of my daughter. I took antibiotics for 10 days and it shrunk. A swolen thyroid gland could be from infection, hormones or an underactive thyrroid gland. Your doctor did testing to see if the gland is underactiv. Most likely a TSH was done. If the TSH is over 3.0, you should be put on some sort of thyroid medication to shrink the gland.

Follow up testing once started on meds should be in about 6 weeks. Make sure to have this testing done first thing in the morning only, so that the doctor can see your levels when they are near the high point. If possible, also have a free t4, free t3, and an antibody test. These tests along with TSH will provide a clearer picture of what is going on.

Q: swollen thyroid glad? help?
i have only one swollen thyroid gland and my friend made it seem like it’s not a big deal, but its be swollen for many months now and whenever i get sick again, it’s that one that ends up hurting while the other one is fine. Should i go to the doctor or is it something i should just leave it alone?

A: do you have iodine in your diet? because iodine defficiency can cause goiter disease, which is the swelling of the thyroid glands. if you eat iodized salt or stuff, you should be ok, but still, i reccomend that you go to the doctor.

Q: thyroid gland problems….?urgent ! please ,only serious answers.?
after 3 months of so many problems and symptoms that made hell of my dayly life, all the blood results were almost perfect.
except, only one element for the thyroid gland (normal is from 1 to 5 , and mine was 9,8 ) …so i am waiting to see a specialist and get an ultrasound and check the tests all over again.
my symptoms are really terrible: from being anxious at times, variations of blood pressure, tachicardia at times,almost all the time chest pain and bronho spasms,tremor,redness of the skin that migrates from one spot to another,some problems with eyes,and many other stuff…

and one special thing : i am feeling sexual arousal as one of the symptoms as well .(and trust me ,its not feeling good to be “on the edge” almost all day ,for so many days. not pleasant at all).
but i am not sure that this particular change in libido can be really related to the thyroid . if you know for sure to tell me can that symptom can be related to hyperthyroid ,please let me know by your answer.
for now i do know that it is a thyroid case. (i am 29 by the way ,and i have quite of knowledge about medicine in general, but not about this particular question regarding the possibility of overcharged libido in thyroid. yeah, logically it can be ,because the hormones are in the game, but yet i haven’t found that that particular symptom can be related with thyroid) . just hope that it is not becaouse of some stupid ,uneducated people whould have hide the libido changes or sexual arousal as a symptom , out of being shy!!???
i am confused , couse i know it cannot be that only i feel that symptom and no one before me ! and again , if there is cases like mine , how comes that is not eay to find it among the other symptoms connected with thyroid.)
so, please, if u can get the information ,i’d be thatnful.
for everything else , i already know. however, i appreciate all your anwers .

A: This is the best I could find
HyperthyroidismFont SizeA A A Symptoms
You may have hyperthyroidism if you:

Feel nervous, moody, weak, or tired.
Have hand tremors; have a fast or irregular heartbeat; or have trouble breathing, even when you are resting.
Sweat a lot, and have warm, red skin that may be itchy.
Have frequent and sometimes loose bowel movements.
Have fine, soft hair that is falling out.
Lose weight even though you are eating normally or more than usual.
In addition, some women have irregular menstrual cycles or stop having periods altogether, and some men may develop enlarged breasts.

The symptoms of hyperthyroidism are not the same for everyone. Your symptoms will depend on how much hormone your thyroid gland is making, how long you have had the condition, and your age. If you are older, it’s easy to mistakenly dismiss your symptoms as normal signs of aging.

Specific symptoms of Graves’ disease
People with Graves’ disease often have additional symptoms, including:

Goiter, which is an enlarged, painless, soft thyroid.
Thickened nails that lift off the nail beds.
Myxedema, which is lumpy, reddish, thick skin on the front of the shins and sometimes on top of the feet.
Clubbing (fingers with wide tips).
Graves’ ophthalmopathy, which causes bulging, reddened eyes, among other symptoms.
Complications
Graves’ ophthalmopathy is a frequent complication of hyperthyroidism. It can develop before, after, or at the same time as your symptoms of hyperthyroidism. People with Graves’ ophthalmopathy develop eye problems, including bulging, reddened eyes, sensitivity to light, and blurring or double vision. People who smoke are more likely to develop Graves’ ophthalmopathy.

If you have Graves’ ophthalmopathy, it may temporarily get worse if you have radioactive iodine treatment. On the other hand, it may get better if you take antithyroid medication.

If you do not treat your hyperthyroidism, you may:

Lose weight because your body’s metabolism is faster.
Have heart problems such as rapid heart rate, atrial fibrillation, and heart failure.
Have trouble replacing calcium and other minerals in your bones, which can lead to osteoporosis.
In rare cases, hyperthyroidism can cause a life-threatening condition called thyroid storm, which develops when the thyroid gland releases large amounts of thyroid hormones in a short period of time. Thyroid storm usually happens after you have had a serious infection or you have had a lot of stress in your life.

Q: Anyone had problems with their thyroid gland? what were your symptoms?
I went to the doctor and told her that my neck sometimes got a bit swollen. She checked it out and at first glance she said I might have a thyroid problem and possibly a goiter. I took the blood test and everything came back normal. I was wondering what were some of the symptoms of someone who has had it. Could it be that there is something wrong but not noticable yet? Some of the things that I have been experiencing is persistant nausea, breathing problem which is not caused by asthma, and some more than usual hair loss. Is this something that could be related? Any information would help. Thanks.

A: Yes, the symptoms you describe sound like a thyroid problem. There are two types of thyroid problems: hyperthryoidism (when your thyroid gland is overactive–producing too much thyroid hormones) and hypothyroidism (when your thyroid gland is underactive). Both have symptoms of goiter. Goiter is an enlarged thyroid gland that can interfere with swallowing, breathing and may cause swelling in the neck. More oftenly, it is associated with hyperthyroidism. Other symptoms of hyperthyroidism include: weight loss, increased anxiety, increased heart rate, increased appetite, fatigue, hair loss, nausea/vomiting, and many others, including menstrual irregularities.

Hyperthyroidism is very common in young women, and can be easily treated. According to the symptoms you describe, it sounds like you may have hyperthyroidism. I would go see a different doctor (possibly an endocrinologist) who can do a more thorough test on you to see if indeed you have hyperthyroidism. Lab tests can be normal and you can still have a thyroid problem. That’s why it’s better to see someone who specializes in it. Good luck!

Q: what kinds of problems can occur when the thyroid gland doesn’t work properly?
Both my mom and nana have problems and I got a txt to my phone saying that if you notice an increase in hair lose to get your thyroid checked. My hair has been falling out like there’s no tomorrow. Please, could you give my any info on possible thyroid problems or anything on the thyroid like what it does and what hormones it sends out and what those hormones do? Thanks in advance

A: The thyroid is an endocrine gland which sits in front of your larynx in your throat. It secretes two different hormones, T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine) which are responsible for regulating your body’s metabolism and controlling how quickly reactions in your body happen. They are the nerve centre you could say. It’s from these hormones that your body gets the messages to burn energy and regulate your metabolism. So the thyroid, as small as it is, is responsible for how efficiently your body burns fat, for how much you weigh and for how much you sleep.

So when your thyroid stops functioning well, your metabolism slows down, the weight gain starts and the other symptoms of hypothyroidism start to reveal themselves.The symtoms are pretty frustrating:
weight gain
hair loss
dry skin
aching limbs
cold hands and feet
memory fogginess
depression
infertility

If your mum and nana both have it then there is a higher chance that you too will inherit it so you should see your doctor for a blood test if the symptoms continue and you can get some meds to help you feel OK again.

Q: thyroid gland…..?
i have been told by my GP that i might have a problem with my thyroid gland (i am goin for more tests at the end of the month), but 2 days ago i woke up with a swelling around the bottom of my neck, it goes from 1 side to the other, and it hasnt seemed to have got smaller.

my question is for people who have, or no of this thyroid problem, if you think this could have anything to do with my gland, i think i have got a problem with it because i am tired all the time and lathargic but i would just like some information about this swelling of my neck.

thank you in advance.

A: I have hypothyroidism. (Underactive thyroid). I take medicine every day for this. What you are explaining is called a goiter. Although I have never had a goiter, I have had every single symptom (except the weight gain). I completely understand the fatigue. Like someone hit you with their car? If it hasn’t gotten that bad yet, believe me, it will. Your goiter can mean you either have hyperthyroidism (too much thyroid), hypo (too little thyroid), or it can possibly mean your thyroid gland is working fine and something else is causing the goiter. Since you are really tired, I am thinking you have hypothyroidism. You must ask yourself if you are more cold than everyone, (feeling chilled to the bone?), have trouble waking in the morning? dry skin? dry hair? hair loss? changes in hair? depression? heavy feeling in legs? poor circulation? cold extremities? Were your symptoms slow and almost unnoticeable, then became quite a problem very fast? Any unexplained weight gain or problems losing weight? If you are female (sorry, I can’t see your name or profile right now), any heavy periods or your symptoms seem much worse during that time of the month? If your thyroid gland isn’t working properly, you need the care of a doctor now. It will only get worse as time goes by. If you are diagnosed with this and want to talk, feel free to email me.

Q: Can speech problems be associated with the thyroid gland?
My son has apraxia of speech &I was wondering if it could be linked with thyroid?

A: http://www.lycos.com/info/hypothyroidism–infants.html

Infants with hypothyroidism are usually identified through testing after birth. This is important, because if hypothyroidism is not corrected, a child could have mental slowness or retardation problems and not grow to a normal height.

Q: Does your thyroid gland have to be swollen for you to have a thyroid problem?
I have all of the symptoms of a thyroid problem except a swollen thyroid gland. So does it sound like I have a thyroid problem or does it sound like a different problem?

A: No, it does NOT have to be swollen and you should NOT be diagnosed on a thyroid blood panel only! Especially if the doc only blood tests for TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone). If he/she does then run do not walk from their office. TSH is your body’s thermostat which is secreted by your Pituitary Gland.

I learned the hard way from experience and now due to doctor’s misconceptions I had to have my thyroid surgically removed. I missed thyroid cancer by a hair width. I will be taking 2 pills 3 times per day for the rest of my life because of doctors solely relying on blood tests. I had a sub-clinical thyroid condition (meaning blood tests within the normal to low normal range) which later resulted in a autoimmune disease thyroid condition. I should have been diagnosed based on symptoms, but it takes a doc with a lot of knowledge to think outside the 4-corners of their medical textbook and guts too. My symptoms began 15 years ago and it took 15 years to hit rock bottom for my disease to surface on blood tests but then it became an autoimmune disease and was TOO LATE. Autoimmune disease is where your immune system turns against you and it begins to attack your body.

Also, I found that specialists such as Endocrinologists were the least informed. I found that they were quick to push mental health drugs treating only the symptoms and not getting to the root of the real problem. Go to the library and SELF-EDUCATE, read all books by patient advocate Mary J. Shomon, Doctors Ridha Ahrem and Steven F. Hotze. Once you learn just how important the thyroid is to your body’s well being and how it functions, then you will be able to connect the dots. You know your body better than anyone.

If you can remember one key important fact which is that some/most doctors medicate using the T-4 hormone (a thyroid pro-hormone) only, but a patient’s problem could lie with the assimilation of the T-3 hormone (the thyroids active hormone). After T-4 enters cells it must be converted into T-3 which is the active active form of thyroid hormone (active OUTSIDE of your blood stream) it is what effects your mental health (depression), memory, fatigue, body temperature, muscle strength, cholesterol level, weight, hair, skin, nails, etc. A complete hormone panel is key too (estrogens, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, cortisol,melatonin). I prefer hormone testing using saliva over blood, which unfortunately, the majority of insurance plans do not cover. I feel it is money well spent.

Good Luck and Be Well.

Q: Are There Any Warning Signs Of Thyroid Problems That Don’t Require A Blood Test?
My mom has had thyroid problems (it eventually had to be removed), and I would like to recognize any problems before they get too advanced, preferably without having to get a blood test every few months for it.

I know the thyroid gland regulates like temperature and mood, how could I isolate any problems caused by my thyroid?

A: Symptoms can vary:
For hypothyroid: Fatigue; depression; hair loss; dry skin; paleness; lowered temperature; sensitivity; sluggishness; constipation; hoarse voice; puffy face; unexplained weight gain; heavier than normal menstruation; swelling in extremities; joint & muscle pain & stiffness; etc.

For Hyperthyroid: Goiter (a bulge on side of neck when thyroid is swollen); weight loss even while eating normally; anxiety; jitteryness; increased appetite; rapid heartbeat; difficulty sleeping; fatigue; sweating; sensitivity to heat; frequent bowel movements; etc.

Symptoms often first appear as something else.

Google: mayo clinic>>diseases>>hypothyroidism
>>hyperthyroidism

You probably only need a blood test 2X/year.

Good luck

Q: can taking amphetamines cause problems with your thyroid gland?

A: Not unless you already have a thyroid problem. But why did you put this question under the Cancer health conditions category?

Take care!
Kali
Nurse Practitioner

Q: can a injured thyroid gland cause memory problems?

A: I think it’s mostly emotional control – but I could be wrong. Try Google, look up thyroid. Good luck.

Q: a thyroid gland problem?
Hiya folks

For the last while i have been having a few problems with the thyroid gland. I have a low thyroid gland and i have been taking extrolin. Now the thing is i have had a few fainting spells just mainly at home but i am really scared to go out juust in case if it happens when i am out and about.

I have seen my GP about this and she more or less said take it easy. but i am concerned that i might faint outside what should i do
debs my GP wasnt helpful and she did knock my confidence in the health system quite a lot.

A: If you thyroid levels have been checked recently proving your levothyroxine replacement is appropriate, then your fainting should not be linked with your thyroid problem.

Lol, I am afraid GPs saying ‘Take it easy’ to patients belongs in a 1920s novel rather than modern practice. Either you have an identifiable medical condition or you don’t! After investigation you should either be given appropriate management for your condition, or reassured following exclusion, that you don’t have a significant medical issue.

Find a GP who has at least entered the 21st century.

Q: Are there any people out there ever had problems with their “Thyroid” gland?
I have to see a consultant soon as I have a small “nodule” below windpipe which is quite painful at the moment.

A: Apparently about one third of Americans has some sort of thyroid problem. I have Papillary Thyroid Cancer. Check Mary J. Shomon’s thyroid website and books. (My cancer was all over in there and never hurt.) Don’t worry now, get informed!!!

About.com thyroid disease

Q: How problems relating to the thyroid gland effect? ?

A: It can leas to cancer as well and this has happened to one of my relatives recently.She used to skip the prescribed medicine frequently.I am not a doctor I am just sharing with you as to what the doctor had said.

Q: I recently underwent an ultra-sound of my thyroid gland and it was quite painful. Is this normal?
The ultra sound was done on my neck. The center and the right side was more painful than my left side. Is this a symptom of thyroid problems?

A: Hi Meyling M, Good luck with your thyroid. First thing is, I assume you were either having some issues – or possibly had a check up and your doctor felt your thyroid may be enlarged in order for him/her to order an ultrasound. If its enlarged it may be tender.

My younger sister had thyroid cancer so I have to have my thyroid ultra sounded yearly. I have never experienced true ‘pain’ but it can definitely be uncomfortable and unpleasant. I think sometimes the tech really needs to push on areas to get a clear reading.

Did they do some blood tests as well? My thyroid is abnormally shaped and has cysts on it but because it is functioning properly (normal blood tests) they just continue to watch it. If you DO have a problem- please stay on top of it. It is AMAZING how much the thyroid has a hand in!

If it’s something serious (like cancer-God forbid) they simply remove it and give you radiation (I’m sure all patients are different). If you have it removed you have to stay on medication for your life and it takes some time to adjust but thyroid cancer is very rarely life threatening (so they tell me). If you end up having problems, and want someone to talk to that has first hand experience- let me know and I can get you in touch with my sister. She’s very knowledgeable (and sweet) First star I see tonight I will wish on that yours is normal. Take care!

Q: Has anyone’s dog ever experienced thyroid problems?
Canines, as well as people have a thyroid gland. When a dog’s thyroid is underactive it is referred to as “Hypothyroidism.”

If you have been thru this with your pet, I am interested in knowing what sorts of symptoms your dog had and how the problem was resolved.

A: I had an Italian Greyhound with this.
Bad coat/hair loss, eye problems, loss of energy…………..a pill a day and the problem was taken care of.
Relatively cheap and she lived another 8 years and passed with unrelated condition at age 15.

Q: A thyroid gland problem can anybody help?
I had my thyroid hormones checked.
TSH and T4 results are in normal parameters while my T3 result is below normal(low).
What does it mean?
Does it mean I have hypothyroid or hyperthyroid?
I’d be very glad if you could help.Thanks…

A: Do you happen to know what the TSH was? If it’s over 2.0 with a low T3 then you are hypothyroid. Make sure if you go thyroid medication that it’s a T4/T3 med. Most thyroid meds are only T4.