Thyroid Gland

• In healthy persons, the thyroid produces the proper amounts of two hormones, thyroxine 3 and thyroxine 4, which regulate the metabolism.
  
  

Hyperthyroidism

• Hyperthyroidism results when there is an excess of T hormones being produced. A person with hyperthyroidism often experiences sudden dramatic weight loss. Other symptoms include rapid heartbeat, tremors in the extremities, uncontrolled sweating and greatly increased appetite.
  
  

Hypothyroidism

• An underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) is typically marked by unexplained weight gain regardless of exercise or diet. This is often accompanied by fatigue and lethargy. Other symptoms include swelling of the face, a suddenly deepening voice and frequent constipation.
  
  

Testing for Thyroid Disease

• When testing for thyroid disease, a physician will inquire about the patient's family history. He will also perform blood tests to determine the condition of the thyroid.
  
  

Treating Hyperthyroidism

• There are several treatment options, including administration of medications to lower the hormone levels produced by the thyroid, surgery and radioactive iodine therapy.
  
  

Treating Hypothyroidism

• Individuals suffering from low thyroid hormone levels are prescribed synthetic replacement hormones to be taken orally. Physicians typically use varying doses of the drug levothyroxine to supplement T-hormone levels.