The thyroid is a small organ in your neck that produces hormones. These hormones regulate your metabolism, including how quickly your body uses energy and how your body grows and develops. The thyroid therefore helps ensure that many processes in your body function properly, including your heart rate, body temperature and energy levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If your thyroid is underactive (hypothyroidism), you may feel tired, gain weight, feel cold, develop dry skin or experience constipation. If your thyroid is overactive (hyperthyroidism), you may lose weight, experience palpitations, sweat more, feel nervous or have difficulty sleeping. Not everyone experiences the same symptoms, but changes in energy levels, weight and mood can indicate a thyroid problem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The thyroid is located at the front of your neck, just below the larynx (Adam’s apple). It is a small organ that resembles a butterfly, with two \u2018wings\u2019 on either side of your windpipe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Thyroid problems are relatively common, particularly among women and people over 40. Many people do not realise they have a thyroid problem because the symptoms can be vague. Every year, tens of thousands of people in the Netherlands develop an underactive or overactive thyroid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes, thyroid problems can develop at any age, but the risk increases as you get older. Even if you have never experienced symptoms before, you can develop a thyroid problem later in life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Various factors can affect thyroid function. These include genetic predisposition, certain medications, too little or too much iodine (a mineral found in food), stress and conditions in which the immune system attacks the thyroid. Pregnancy can also affect thyroid function.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A healthy lifestyle can support your thyroid. Make sure you get enough iodine through your diet, for example from bread or dairy products. Eat a varied diet, exercise regularly and try to reduce stress. Do not smoke, as smoking can negatively affect the thyroid. If you have an increased risk, for example because thyroid problems run in your family, discuss this with your doctor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes, thyroid problems can usually be treated effectively. An underactive thyroid is often treated with thyroid hormone tablets. An overactive thyroid can be treated with medication that reduces thyroid activity, and in some cases other treatments may be needed. With the right treatment, you can usually function normally again. Regular monitoring is important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice from a doctor. If your symptoms persist or you are concerned, always contact your doctor.<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"biomarker_category":[589],"biomarker_material":[],"class_list":["post-11018523","biomarker","type-biomarker","status-publish","hentry","biomarker_category-thyroid-function"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n