{"id":11018975,"date":"2026-03-16T13:48:32","date_gmt":"2026-03-16T13:48:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/labtest.nl\/?p=11018975"},"modified":"2026-08-22T11:37:13","modified_gmt":"2026-08-22T11:37:13","slug":"what-is-the-thyroid-and-why-is-it-so-important","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/labtest.nl\/en\/general-health-tests\/what-is-the-thyroid-and-why-is-it-so-important\/","title":{"rendered":"What is the thyroid and why is it so important?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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What is the thyroid and why is it so important? The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that has a major influence on your body. It produces hormones that play an important role in regulating your metabolism, energy levels, body temperature and various other bodily processes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When the thyroid is functioning properly, these processes remain balanced. However, changes in hormone production can lead to various thyroid problems that may cause noticeable symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because the thyroid affects so many processes in the body, changes in hormone levels can affect how you feel and function in everyday life. You can easily order a thyroid test<\/strong><\/a> to gain more insight into your hormone levels.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Common thyroid problems<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Thyroid problems are relatively common. The two most common conditions are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

With an underactive thyroid, the gland produces fewer hormones than normal. This can slow down the metabolism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

People with an underactive thyroid may experience:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n