Thyroid Gland : Location and Functions

Location of the Thyroid Gland:

The thyroid gland is present around the front and either side of the trachea (wind pipe), at the base of the neck, just below the larynx. Thyroid gland resembles a stocky butterfly which is facing downwards towards the chest.

What are the Hormones Secreted by Thyroid Gland? Thyroid gland function:

Thyroxin:

Thyroxin is a thyroid hormone, which is a complex protein type chemical, along with other elements and contains a large amount of iodine. Thyroxin affects various steps of body’s metabolism like the rate at which our cells and tissues use inhaled oxygen to burn the food we eat.

Thyroid gland problems

Hypothyroidism:

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroxin is not produced in required amount by the thyroid gland. Due to less amount of thyroxin, the person feels drowsy, sluggish, weight gain (even with poor appetite) and makes tiresome and wearying activities.

Hyperthyroidism:

Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which thyroxin is produced in more amount by the thyroid gland. A hyperthyroid person is jumpy, restless and eat more without gaining weight.

Goiter:

Goiter is the disorder of the thyroid gland, it is a massive swelling and called as goiter. It is the result of the lack of iodine in the diet. The normal thyroid gland collects the iodine from the blood stream and is then synthesised to thyroxin. If there is lack of iodine, the thyroid gland enlarges and creates a goiter. This abnormal growth is stopped if iodine is given to the person.