Thyroid disease
Thyroid disease
Thyroid disease is a medical term for any disorder that affects the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ located in the front of the neck. It produces hormones that regulate the body's metabolic rate, heart and digestive function, muscle control, brain development, mood, and bone maintenance.
Pronunciation
Thyroid disease: /ˈθaɪrɔɪd dɪˈziːz/
Etymology
The term "thyroid" comes from the Greek word "thyreos", meaning "shield", due to the gland's shape. The term "disease" comes from the Old French "desaise", meaning "lack of ease".
Types of Thyroid Diseases
There are several types of thyroid diseases, including:
- Hyperthyroidism: This condition occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. Symptoms can include rapid heart rate, weight loss, nervousness, and irritability.
- Hypothyroidism: This condition occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Symptoms can include fatigue, weight gain, depression, and sensitivity to cold.
- Goiter: This is an enlargement of the thyroid gland. It can be caused by iodine deficiency, inflammation, or tumors.
- Thyroiditis: This is inflammation of the thyroid gland. It can be caused by an autoimmune disease, infection, or certain medications.
- Thyroid cancer: This is a type of cancer that starts in the thyroid gland. It is more common in women than in men.
Related Terms
- Endocrinology: The branch of medicine that deals with the endocrine system, its diseases, and its specific secretions known as hormones.
- Hormone: A chemical substance produced in the body that controls and regulates the activity of certain cells or organs.
- Metabolism: The chemical processes that occur within a living organism in order to maintain life.
- Autoimmune disease: A condition in which your immune system mistakenly attacks your body.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Thyroid disease
- Wikipedia's article - Thyroid disease
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