The Thyroid Gland
The Thyroid gland is located just under the Adam's apple at the front of the neck and wraps around the oesophagus.
The thyroid is part of the endocrine system.
Common problems include an underactive thyroid (also known as hypothyroidism) & an overactive thyroid (also known as hyperthyroidism).
Image courtesy rwk (c)
Thyroid Physiology
What does the thyroid do?
Thyroid hormones help regulate;
- Body temperature
- Heart rate
- Blood pressure
- Body growth
- Metabolism (rate at which food is turned into energy)
Thyroid hormone is also part of the brain chemistry and controls;
- Mood
- Emotion
- Cognition
- Appetite
- Behaviour