Thyroid

The old Total T4 test (TT4) is no longer considered the best way to test for T4 levels. T4 and T3 can both be bound by other proteins and hormones in the body. When this happens, the T4 or T3 is not usable by the body. The body can only use T4 and T3 that is not bound, or free. For this reason, Free T4, which only tests the free levels of the hormone, is now preferred over Total T4 testing as more accurate.

Its the Hypothalamus

Most thyroid ultrasounds are performed to evaluate a small lump (nodule) in the thyroid found during a physical examination or found by a radionuclide study (thyroid scan).

Hyperthyroidism can lead to hair changes primarily due to the increased metabolism and hormonal imbalances it causes in the body. The overproduction of thyroid hormones accelerates the hair growth cycle, resulting in thinning hair or hair loss as hairs enter the shedding phase more quickly. Additionally, the condition can disrupt the normal functioning of hair follicles, leading to brittle, dry, or fine hair. These changes are often reversible with proper treatment of the underlying hyperthyroidism.

The gland most closely associated with the thyroid gland is the parathyroid gland. Typically, there are four parathyroid glands located on the posterior surface of the thyroid gland. These glands play a crucial role in regulating calcium levels in the blood by producing parathyroid hormone (PTH). Their close anatomical proximity allows for coordinated regulation of metabolism and calcium homeostasis.

A complex solid nodule in the thyroid is a type of thyroid nodule that contains both solid and cystic (fluid-filled) components. These nodules can vary in size and may be benign or malignant. Evaluation typically involves ultrasound imaging and, if necessary, a fine-needle aspiration biopsy to determine their nature and guide treatment options. Regular monitoring may be recommended, especially if the nodule exhibits suspicious features.

Yes, there can be a relationship between low hemoglobin levels and thyroid function. Hypothyroidism, a condition characterized by low thyroid hormone levels, can lead to anemia, often resulting in decreased hemoglobin levels. This occurs because thyroid hormones play a role in erythropoiesis, the production of red blood cells. Therefore, individuals with thyroid disorders may experience related hematological issues.

Thyroid medication is not commonly associated with loss of smell and taste as a direct side effect. However, fluctuations in thyroid hormone levels, whether from underactive or overactive thyroid conditions, can impact sensory functions. It's important to consult a healthcare professional if you experience these symptoms while on thyroid medication, as they could be related to other underlying issues or medications.

The gland located in the neck that affects metabolism is the thyroid gland. It produces hormones, primarily thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which play a crucial role in regulating the body's metabolic rate, heart rate, and overall energy levels. Proper functioning of the thyroid is essential for maintaining a healthy metabolism and supporting various bodily functions.

A calcification nodule in the right hilum refers to a small, hardened area within the hilum of the right lung, which may be visible on imaging studies such as X-rays or CT scans. This nodule often results from previous infections, granulomatous diseases, or inflammation, leading to the deposition of calcium salts. While many calcified nodules are benign and not a cause for concern, further evaluation may be necessary to rule out malignancy or other underlying conditions depending on the clinical context.

A 6mm size nodule is relatively small, roughly the size of a pea or a pencil eraser. It may appear as a rounded or irregularly shaped bump on the skin or within an organ, depending on its location. The color can vary, often being similar to the surrounding tissue or slightly darker. Imaging techniques like ultrasound, CT scans, or MRIs can help visualize internal nodules more clearly.

Yes there are. Every pregnancy symptom is a result of the HCG hormone hun.

For individuals with hyperthyroidism eating onions is encouraged. Onions help suppress the thyroid.

Chamomile is known for inducing relaxation. In Graves' Disease, relaxation is much more difficult because of the overstimulation of the body by the increased thyroid hormones. It may be helpful to help mediate some of the lesser symptoms of Graves' Disease however. Patients should always check with their physicians before adding anything like herbs, supplements or complementary medicine to their regimen.

Well the "mass" needs to be biopsied. Many times it is just a goiter and not cancer. In the event it is cancer, thyroid cancer grows very slowly and survival rate is excellent. I have lived with Hypothyroidism for many years, they are always checking it, scanning it etc. I have two friends with thyroid cancer and it's been over ten years and they are still fine. Please make sure yearly scanning of the thyroid is done as well as taking medicine.

I wouldn't recommend it unless you have very frequent blood tests (which are expensive and require a prescription). If you use the supplement to keep you at the high end of the normal end that would be fine, but how would you know without the lab work? It would be trial and error; you could easily end up suffering hyperthyroidism and that could be dangerous.

increases the body's basal metabolic rate and much of this energy is inefficiently used for muscle contraction. In turn, the muscles lose their endurance, fatigue easily, and become weak and wasted

Patients with hypothyroid conditions do not usually need to avoid specific foods. However, research did show that those with hashimoto's thyroiditis that kept their intake of iodine to 10 mgs showed improvement in their condition.

The pituitary gland is known as the *master gland* and controls the function of all other glands. If the pituitary is dysfunctional, it may adversely affect thyroid function as well.

The nerve is best known for its importance in thyroid surgery, as it runs immediately posterior to this gland. If it is damaged during surgery, the patient will have a hoarse voice. Nerve damage can be assessed by laryngoscopy, during which a stroboscopic light confirms the absence of movement in the affected side of the vocal cords. Similar problems may also be due to invasion of the nerve by a tumor or after trauma to the neck. A common scenario is paralysis of the left vocal cord due to malignant tumour in the mediastinum affecting the left branch of the recurrent laryngeal nerve. The left cord returns to midline where it stays. If the damage is unilateral, the patient may present with voice changes including hoarseness. Bilateral nerve damage can result in breathing difficulties and aphonia, the inability to speak. The right recurrent laryngeal nerve is more susceptible to damage during thyroid surgery due to its relatively medial location.

T3 is triiodothyronine, and is the active form of the hormone secreted by the thyroid. T4 (thyroxine) is another form of thyroid hormone which must be converted to T3 by your body via the deiodinase enzyme. Although T3 is active, your body produces much more T4.

The best way to monitor low thyroid function is by looking at TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone). TSH will be high if the thyroid is not producing enough T3/T4. For the majority of hypothyroid cases, only TSH needs to be monitored.

For hyperthyroidism and some hard to treat hypothyroid cases, the doctor will test T3 and T4.