The thyroid gland is a tiny gland situated in the neck and it has an enormous impact on the health and well-being of the entire person. The thyroid secretes thyroid hormone, which in turn regulates human growth, maturation and the speed of metabolism.
In a hypothyroid there is an insufficient production of thyroid hormone or reduced stimulation of thyroid. Here the thyroid gland is described as an underactive thyroid as there is a reduced production of thyroid hormone. While in hyperthyroidism, there is excessive production of thyroid hormones. Graves disease is associated with the thyroid gland and is a type of an autoimmune disorder characterized by hyperthyroidism. Inflammation of the thyroid gland is known as Thyroiditis and is the commonest cause of hypothyroidism. In an overactive thyroid there can be weight loss or weight gain.
There are several common foods that can cause hypothyroidism if eaten in large quantities, especially if you have iodine deficiency. These food substances are known as goitrogens. They are known as goitrogens as they can stimulate the enlargement of the thyroid (a goiter) and also hypothyroidism.
In a hypo thyroid, Levothyroxine (T4) drug is prescribed, as this is considered as the "standard" treatment for hypothyroidism. The commonly prescribed levothyroxine drug is Synthroid. However, the other name of levothyroxine drugs (including Levoxyl and Levothroid) are considered equivalent in quality, potency and effectiveness, and are less expensive. Thyroid cancer is treated by surgery depending on the type and stage of the cancer, the size of the nodule and the age of the patient.
