The thyroid gland is a gland located in the lower front of the neck. It produces thyroid hormones, which are then secreted into the blood and transferred around the body. These hormones are responsible for coordinating many important processes within the body, for example, controlling the body temperature and heart beat. Hence, when the thyroid gland doesn’t function properly, it can result in serious conditions.
The two main types of conditions are Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism. When they occur, the thyroid gland produces too much and too little hormones, accordingly. However the symptoms can be vague — weight loss/gain, depression and fatigue. It is necessary to take a blood test in order to understand how well a thyroid gland works. If a dysfunction is detected, there are a few treatment options available from medications to surgery.