The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped gland in the neck, just in front of the windpipe (trachea) at the base of the neck. It is part of an intricate network of glands called the endocrine system, a system responsible for coordinating many of your body’s activities. The thyroid gland in particular manufactures hormones that regulate your metabolism.

Problems with your Thyroid

Thyroid problems are usually secondary. Meaning it is caused by an underlying issue. E.g a high percentage of people with diabetes also exhibit thyroid issues.The 4 main Thyroid issues are:

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis – A condition that occurs when your body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and slowly destroys your thyroid gland and its ability to produce hormones.

Graves’ Disease – Also an autoimmune disorder that occurs when your body’s immune system mistakenly attacks your thyroid gland. This can cause your gland to overproduce the hormone responsible for regulating your metabolism.

Goiter - a noncancerous enlargement of your thyroid gland, mostly caused due to an iodine deficiency

Thyroid Nodules - Thyroid nodules are growths that form on or in your thyroid gland. They can grow as large as a golf ball.

Thyroid disorders can cause issues relating to:

temperature regulation

blood pressure

fertility

metabolism

mental health