Did you know that your thyroid is a very important hormone gland? The small organ, about the size of your thumb, is found at the front of your neck, just under the voice box. The butterfly-shaped organ lies around the windpipe. It produces three hormones- Triiodothyronine (T3), Tetraiodothyronine (T4), and Calcitonin. The thyroid helps aid in metabolism, as well as the growth and development of the human body. It also helps to regulate many body functions by releasing thyroid hormones into the bloodstream. 

When you start experiencing some unpleasant symptoms such as unexplained tiredness, weight gain, hair loss, mood imbalances, dry skin, and other issues, it may be due to issues with your thyroid. There are a variety of different types of thyroid diseases, with an estimated 20 million people in the U.S. having some type of issue with their thyroid. Four main conditions that affect your thyroid include:

Hypothyroidism- This happens when you have an underactive thyroid as it is not releasing enough thyroid hormones. It causes your metabolism to slow down and is caused by different autoimmune diseases, thyroid inflammation, iodine deficiency, thyroid gland removal, and more. 

Hyperthyroidism- This happens when you have an overactive thyroid as it is releasing more thyroid hormones than your body needs. It causes your metabolism to speed up and is caused by different autoimmune diseases, thyroid nodules, excessive iodine in your diet, and more.

Goiter- This happens when you have an enlarged thyroid gland caused by not enough hormones, not enough iodine, and certain medications.

Thyroid cancer- Thyroid cancer begins in your thyroid tissues and treatment is very successful.