Thyroid: What Is It and When to Be Concerned

The thyroid is an unassuming but important gland that plays a major role in metabolism, growth and development. It works to control many body functions by releasing a steady stream of hormones into the bloodstream.

Where Is the Thyroid?

The thyroid gland is located at the front of the neck, under the voice box or larynx. Its shape resembles a butterfly with its wings (lobes) on either side of the trachea (windpipe).

Thyroid Problems and Diseases

When the thyroid malfunctions and produces too many or too few hormones, the effects on the body can range from bothersome to serious.

Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) is diagnosed when the thyroid produces too many hormones. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:

• Faster-than-usual heart rate (tachycardia)
• Difficulty sleeping
• Unexplained weight loss
• Sensitivity to heat
• Clammy or sweaty skin
• Feeling anxious, irritable or nervous

Hypothyroidism (underactive or slow thyroid) is the term used to describe the condition when the thyroid’s hormone production is too low. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include:

• Slower-than-usual heart rate
• Feeling tired (fatigue)
• Unexplained weight gain
• Feeling sensitive to cold
• Dry skin
• Dry and coarse hair
• Depressed mood

While more common in hyperthyroidism, both conditions can lead to an enlarged thyroid, sometimes known as a goiter.

Risk Factors for Thyroid Disorders

You may be at a higher risk of developing a thyroid condition if you:

• Were assigned female at birth (AFAB); People AFAB are five to eight times more likely to have a thyroid condition than people assigned male at birth (AMAB)
• Have a family history of thyroid disease
• Have Turner syndrome
• Take a medication that’s high in iodine
• Live in a country or area that doesn’t have iodized table salt, which can lead to iodine deficiency
• Are older than 60, especially if you’re AFAB
• Have received radiation therapy to your head and/or neck

Having an autoimmune disease also increases your risk, especially if you have:

• Pernicious anemia
• Type 1 diabetes
• Celiac disease
• Addison’s disease
• Lupus
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Sjögren’s syndrome

How Thyroid Disorders Affect the Female Body 

While a thyroid disorder can interfere with the bodily systems of both men and women, it can have a significant impact on the female reproductive system. Some of these effects include:

Puberty and menstruation: Early or late onset of puberty and menstruation (period); light, heavy or irregular periods

Reproduction: Stopping ovulation (release of the egg) leading to infertility; Hypothyroidism leading to higher risk for developing cysts on ovaries

Pregnancy and postpartum: Preeclampsia (a form of high blood pressure), preterm birth, heart failure (though rare) and bleeding after childbirth; Morning sickness that is more severe and an increased risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, and heart failure in both the birth parent and the fetus

Menopause: Lack of menstrual period, hot flashes, trouble sleeping, mood swings

Bone health: Osteoporosis

Emotional and mental health: Depressed mood, fatigue, weight gain, reduced interest in sex, trouble thinking

How Thyroid Disorders Affect the Male Body 

Thyroid disorders can also affect the function of the male reproductive system leading to issues including:

• Hair loss
• Reduced muscle mass
• Low testosterone
• Erectile dysfunction
• Ejaculation problems
• Low sperm count
• Decreased sexual drive

In some cases, men develop female breasts.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms described, contact your primary care provider. If they suspect a thyroid disorder, they can order a variety of tests to diagnose medical conditions that affect the gland and recommend appropriate treatment.