HealthCentral.com

Thyroid diseases



Endocrine glands
Endocrine glands
Primary and secondary hypothyroidism
Primary and secondary hypothyroidism
Brain-thyroid link
Brain-thyroid link
Thyroid gland
Thyroid gland


Thyroid diseases

Definition:

The thyroid gland is located in the base of the neck on both sides of the lower part of the larynx (voice box) and upper part of the trachea (wind pipe). The gland produces thyroid hormone in response to stimulation by a hormone from the pituitary gland. Thyroid hormone acts throughout the body to regulate metabolism.



Thyroid diseases can be broadly divided into the following categories:

  • Overproduction of thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism)
  • Underproduction of thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism)
  • Benign (noncancerous) thyroid disease
  • Thyroid cancer

For information about a specific type of thyroid disease see one of the following:





Symptoms Checker