How does the endocrine system work. What are the main glands in the human body. Which hormones do different glands produce. How can endocrine disorders affect overall health. What are common symptoms of endocrine imbalances.

The Endocrine System: A Network of Hormone-Producing Glands

The endocrine system is a complex network of glands that produce and secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream. These hormones act as chemical messengers, regulating various bodily functions and maintaining homeostasis. Understanding the endocrine system is crucial for comprehending how our bodies function and respond to internal and external stimuli.

But what exactly is a gland? A gland is a specialized organ that produces and releases substances for use in the body. In the context of the endocrine system, these substances are hormones. There are two main types of glands:

• Endocrine glands: Release hormones directly into the bloodstream
• Exocrine glands: Release substances through ducts to specific areas of the body

The endocrine system plays a vital role in numerous bodily functions, including:

1. Mood regulation
2. Growth and development
3. Metabolism
4. Organ function
5. Reproduction

Major Glands of the Endocrine System and Their Functions

The endocrine system comprises several glands, each with specific functions and hormone production. Let’s explore the major glands and their roles in maintaining bodily functions:

Hypothalamus: The Master Controller

The hypothalamus serves as a crucial link between the endocrine and nervous systems. Its primary function is to regulate the pituitary gland, often referred to as the “master gland” of the endocrine system. How does the hypothalamus accomplish this? It produces hormones that either stimulate or inhibit hormone production in the pituitary gland, thus indirectly influencing various bodily functions.

Pituitary Gland: The Master Gland

Located at the base of the brain, the pituitary gland is often called the “master gland” due to its control over other endocrine glands. It produces several important hormones, including:

• Growth hormone (GH): Regulates growth and metabolism
• Prolactin: Stimulates milk production in breastfeeding mothers
• Antidiuretic hormone (ADH): Controls blood pressure and body water balance
• Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH): Stimulates the adrenal glands
• Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH): Regulates thyroid hormone production
• Luteinizing hormone (LH) and Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH): Control reproductive functions

Pineal Gland: The Sleep Regulator

The pineal gland, often referred to as the “third eye” in some cultures, plays a crucial role in regulating our sleep-wake cycle. How does it accomplish this? The pineal gland produces melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate our circadian rhythm and prepares our body for sleep.

Thyroid Gland: Metabolism and Growth

The thyroid gland, located in the neck, produces hormones that are essential for regulating metabolism, growth, and development. The two main thyroid hormones are:

• Thyroxine (T4)
• Triiodothyronine (T3)

These hormones influence nearly every cell in the body, controlling how quickly the body uses energy, makes proteins, and regulates sensitivity to other hormones. The thyroid gland also produces calcitonin, which plays a role in calcium regulation and bone metabolism.

Parathyroid Glands: Calcium Balance and Bone Health

The parathyroid glands, four small glands located behind the thyroid, play a crucial role in maintaining calcium balance in the body. They produce parathyroid hormone (PTH), which regulates calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood and bones. How does PTH maintain calcium balance?

• Increases calcium absorption from the intestines
• Promotes calcium reabsorption in the kidneys
• Stimulates the release of calcium from bones when blood calcium levels are low

This delicate balance is essential for proper nerve and muscle function, as well as maintaining strong bones and teeth.

Thymus: Immune System Development

The thymus, located between the lungs, plays a crucial role in the development of the immune system, particularly during childhood. It produces T-lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell essential for fighting infections. Interestingly, the thymus is most active before puberty and gradually shrinks in size and function as we age.

Adrenal Glands: Stress Response and Metabolism

The adrenal glands, situated atop the kidneys, produce hormones that help regulate metabolism, blood pressure, and the body’s response to stress. The two main parts of the adrenal glands are:

1. Adrenal cortex: Produces corticosteroids (including cortisol) and aldosterone
2. Adrenal medulla: Produces adrenaline (epinephrine) and noradrenaline (norepinephrine)

These hormones play a crucial role in the “fight or flight” response, helping the body react quickly to stressful situations.

Pancreas: Blood Sugar Regulation and Digestion

The pancreas is a unique organ that functions as part of both the endocrine and digestive systems. As an endocrine gland, it produces two critical hormones:

• Insulin: Lowers blood sugar by promoting glucose uptake by cells
• Glucagon: Raises blood sugar by promoting the breakdown of glycogen to glucose

These hormones work in tandem to maintain optimal blood sugar levels. In addition to its endocrine function, the pancreas also produces digestive enzymes that help break down food in the small intestine.

Reproductive Glands: Ovaries and Testes

The reproductive glands play a crucial role in sexual development, reproduction, and maintaining secondary sexual characteristics.

Ovaries in women produce estrogen and progesterone, which regulate the menstrual cycle, support pregnancy, and influence the development of female secondary sexual characteristics. How do these hormones affect a woman’s body throughout her life?

• Puberty: Stimulate breast development and the growth of pubic and underarm hair
• Menstrual cycle: Regulate ovulation and prepare the uterus for potential pregnancy
• Pregnancy: Support fetal development and prepare the body for childbirth and lactation
• Menopause: Declining levels lead to the cessation of menstruation and other physiological changes

Testes in men produce testosterone, which is responsible for:

• Development of male secondary sexual characteristics (e.g., deepening of voice, facial hair growth)
• Sperm production
• Muscle mass and strength
• Bone density
• Sex drive (libido)

Endocrine System Disorders: Causes and Effects

Endocrine disorders occur when glands produce too much or too little of a hormone, or when the body doesn’t respond correctly to hormones. These imbalances can have wide-ranging effects on health and well-being. Some common endocrine disorders include:

Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high blood sugar levels. There are two main types:

• Type 1 Diabetes: The pancreas produces little or no insulin
• Type 2 Diabetes: The body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough

Symptoms of diabetes may include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. Long-term complications can affect the heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves.

Thyroid Disorders

Thyroid disorders can result in either overproduction (hyperthyroidism) or underproduction (hypothyroidism) of thyroid hormones. How do these conditions affect the body?

• Hyperthyroidism: Can cause rapid heartbeat, weight loss, anxiety, and heat intolerance
• Hypothyroidism: May lead to fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and depression

Adrenal Insufficiency

Adrenal insufficiency occurs when the adrenal glands don’t produce enough cortisol and, in some cases, aldosterone. This can result in fatigue, weakness, weight loss, and low blood pressure. Addison’s disease is a severe form of adrenal insufficiency.

Growth Hormone Deficiency

A lack of growth hormone can affect children’s growth and development. In adults, it may lead to decreased muscle mass, increased fat tissue, and reduced bone density.

Maintaining Endocrine Health: Prevention and Management

While some endocrine disorders are genetic or caused by factors beyond our control, there are steps we can take to support endocrine health:

1. Maintain a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients
2. Exercise regularly to support metabolism and hormone balance
3. Manage stress through relaxation techniques and adequate sleep
4. Avoid exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals in plastics and pesticides
5. Stay hydrated to support overall gland function
6. Attend regular check-ups and screenings, especially if you have a family history of endocrine disorders

By understanding the intricate workings of the endocrine system and its glands, we can better appreciate the complex processes that keep our bodies functioning optimally. When imbalances occur, recognizing the signs and seeking appropriate medical care is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being.

The Future of Endocrine Research and Treatment

As our understanding of the endocrine system continues to evolve, new avenues for research and treatment are emerging. What are some of the exciting developments in endocrine science?

• Precision medicine: Tailoring treatments based on an individual’s genetic profile and hormone levels
• Artificial intelligence: Using machine learning to predict endocrine disorders and optimize treatment plans
• Bioengineered hormones: Developing more effective and targeted hormone therapies
• Endocrine disruptor research: Investigating the long-term effects of environmental chemicals on hormone function
• Stem cell therapy: Exploring the potential of stem cells to regenerate damaged endocrine tissues

These advancements hold promise for improving the diagnosis, treatment, and management of endocrine disorders, potentially leading to better outcomes and quality of life for patients.

The Role of Epigenetics in Endocrine Function

Epigenetics, the study of how environmental factors can influence gene expression without changing the DNA sequence, is shedding new light on endocrine function and disorders. How does epigenetics relate to the endocrine system?

• Hormonal imprinting: Early life exposure to certain hormones can influence endocrine function later in life
• Transgenerational effects: Endocrine disruptions in one generation may affect subsequent generations
• Stress and hormone regulation: Chronic stress can lead to epigenetic changes that affect hormone production and sensitivity

Understanding these epigenetic mechanisms may lead to new strategies for preventing and treating endocrine disorders, as well as promoting overall endocrine health across generations.

Integrative Approaches to Endocrine Health

As our understanding of the interconnectedness of body systems grows, integrative approaches to endocrine health are gaining attention. These approaches combine conventional medical treatments with complementary therapies to address the whole person. What are some integrative strategies for supporting endocrine health?

1. Nutritional therapy: Using specific dietary interventions to support hormone balance
2. Herbal medicine: Incorporating herbs known to influence endocrine function, such as ashwagandha for adrenal support
3. Mind-body techniques: Practicing yoga, meditation, or tai chi to reduce stress and support overall endocrine balance
4. Acupuncture: Using traditional Chinese medicine techniques to address hormonal imbalances
5. Chronobiology: Aligning daily activities with natural circadian rhythms to optimize hormone production and function

While these approaches should not replace conventional medical care, they may offer additional support and enhance overall well-being for individuals with endocrine concerns.

The Gut-Endocrine Connection

Emerging research is revealing a fascinating connection between the gut microbiome and the endocrine system. How does the gut influence hormone function?

• Hormone production: Certain gut bacteria can produce hormones or hormone-like substances
• Hormone metabolism: The gut microbiome can influence how hormones are metabolized and excreted
• Inflammation: Gut health can affect systemic inflammation, which in turn impacts endocrine function
• Nutrient absorption: A healthy gut promotes better absorption of nutrients essential for hormone production

This growing understanding of the gut-endocrine axis opens up new possibilities for managing endocrine disorders through dietary interventions and probiotic therapies.

Endocrine Health Across the Lifespan

The endocrine system undergoes significant changes throughout our lives, from infancy to old age. Understanding these changes can help us better manage our health at each stage of life. How do endocrine needs and functions change over time?

Childhood and Adolescence

During childhood and adolescence, the endocrine system plays a crucial role in growth and development. Key hormonal changes include:

• Growth hormone surges to promote physical growth
• Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism and support brain development
• Sex hormones initiate puberty and sexual maturation

Adulthood

In adulthood, the endocrine system focuses on maintaining homeostasis and supporting reproductive functions. Important aspects include:

• Stress management through cortisol regulation
• Metabolic balance through thyroid and pancreatic hormones
• Reproductive health, including fertility and pregnancy

Aging and Menopause/Andropause

As we age, hormonal changes can significantly impact health and well-being. Key considerations include:

• Declining sex hormone levels leading to menopause in women and andropause in men
• Changes in metabolism and body composition
• Increased risk of certain endocrine disorders, such as type 2 diabetes and thyroid dysfunction

By understanding these life stage-specific endocrine changes, individuals can take proactive steps to support their hormonal health and overall well-being throughout life.

The Endocrine System and Glands of the Human Body: Function and Disorders

Written by Barbara Brody

• What Is the Endocrine System?
• What Is a Gland?
• Endocrine System Functions
• Parts of the Endocrine System
• Health Issues
• Endocrine System Disorders
• More

The endocrine system is a network of glands in your body that make the hormones that help cells talk to each other. They’re responsible for almost every cell, organ, and function in your body.

If your endocrine system isn’t healthy, you might have problems developing during puberty, getting pregnant, or managing stress. You also might gain weight easily, have weak bones, or lack energy because too much sugar stays in your blood instead of moving into your cells where it’s needed for energy.

A gland is an organ that makes and puts out hormones that do a specific job in your body. Endocrine and exocrine glands release the substances they make into your bloodstream.

Your endocrine system:

• Makes hormones that control your moods, growth and development, metabolism, organs, and reproduction
• Controls how your hormones are released
• Sends those hormones into your bloodstream so they can travel to other body parts

Many glands make up the endocrine system. The hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and pineal gland are in your brain. The thyroid and parathyroid glands are in your neck. The thymus is between your lungs, the adrenals are on top of your kidneys, and the pancreas is behind your stomach. Your ovaries (if you’re a woman) or testes (if you’re a man) are in your pelvic region.

• Hypothalamus. This organ connects your endocrine system with your nervous system. Its main job is to tell your pituitary gland to start or stop making hormones.
• Pituitary gland. This is your endocrine system’s master gland. It uses information it gets from your brain to tell other glands in your body what to do. It makes many important hormones, including growth hormone; prolactin, which helps breastfeeding moms make milk; antidiuretic hormone(ADH) (vasopressin), which controls blood pressure and helps control body water balance through its effect on the kidney, corticotropin /ACTH: Adrenocorticotrophic hormone. which stimulates the adrenal gland to make certain hormones, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which stimulates the production and secretion of thyroid hormones, oxytocin which helps in milk ejection during breast feeding; and luteinizing hormone, which manages estrogen in women and testosterone in men.
• Pineal gland. It makes a chemical called melatonin that helps your body get ready to go to sleep.
• Thyroid gland. This gland makes thyroid hormone, which controls your growth and metabolism. If this gland doesn’t make enough (a condition called hypothyroidism), everything happens more slowly. Your heart rate might slow down. You could get constipated. And you might gain weight. If it makes too much (hyperthyroidism), everything speeds up. Your heart might race. You could have diarrhea. And you might lose weight without trying. The thyroid gland also produces the hormone calcitonin, which may contribute to bone strength by helping calcium to be incorporated into bone.
• Parathyroid. This is a set of four small glands behind your thyroid. They play a role in bone health. The glands control your levels of calcium and phosphorus.
• Thymus. This gland makes white blood cells called T-lymphocytes that fight infection and are crucial as a child’s immune system develops. The thymus starts to shrink after puberty.
• Adrenals. Best known for making the “fight or flight” hormone adrenaline (also called epinephrine), these two glands also make hormones called corticosteroids. They affect your metabolism heart rate, oxygen intake, blood flow, and sexual function, among other things.
• Pancreas. This organ is part of both your digestive and endocrine systems. It makes digestive enzymes that break down food. It also makes the hormones insulin and glucagon. These ensure you have the right amount of sugar in your bloodstream and your cells.
• If you don’t make insulin, which is the case for people with type 1 diabetes, your blood sugar levels can get dangerously high. In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas usually makes some insulin but not enough.
• Ovaries. In women, these organs make estrogen and progesterone. These hormones help develop breasts at puberty, regulate the menstrual cycle, and support a pregnancy.
• Testes. In men, the testes make testosterone. It helps them grow facial and body hair at puberty. It also tells the penis to grow larger and plays a role in making sperm.

As you get older, it’s natural to notice some things related to your endocrine system. Your metabolism tends to slow down. So you might gain weight even though you haven’t changed how you eat or exercise. Hormonal shifts also explain, at least in part, why you’re more likely to have heart disease, osteoporosis, and type 2 diabetes as you age.

No matter how old you are, stress, infections, and being around certain chemicals can also mess with parts of your endocrine system. And genetics or lifestyle habits can increase your chances of an endocrine disorder like hypothyroidism, diabetes, or osteoporosis.

• Acromegaly. Sometimes the pituitary gland makes too much growth hormone and your bones get bigger. It usually affects your hands, feet, and face. It usually starts in middle age.
• Adrenal insufficiency. When you have this, your adrenal glands don’t make enough of certain hormones, like cortisol, which controls stress.
• Cushing’s disease. In this, your body makes too much cortisol. You could gain weight, get stretch marks, bruise easily at first, then get weakened muscles and bones and possibly develop a hump on your upper back.
• Hyperthyroidism. This is when your thyroid gland makes more hormones than your body needs. You might hear it called overactive thyroid. It makes your system run fast and you might feel nervous, lose weight, and have a rapid heartbeat or trouble sleeping.
• Hypothyroidism. When your body doesn’t make enough thyroid hormone, your system slows down. You might feel tired, gain weight, have a slow heartbeat, and get joint and muscle pains.
• Hypopituitarism. Sometimes your pituitary gland doesn’t make enough of certain hormones and your adrenal and thyroid glands can’t work right.
• Multiple endocrine neoplasia. This is a group of disorders that affect your endocrine system. It causes tumors on at least two endocrine glands or in other organs and tissues.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome. An imbalance of reproductive hormones can cause your ovaries to either not make an egg or not release it during ovulation. This can throw off your periods, cause acne, and make hair to grow on your face or chin.
• Precocious puberty. When glands that control reproduction don’t work properly, some kids start puberty abnormally early — around 8 in girls and 9 in boys.

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The Endocrine System and Glands of the Human Body: Function and Disorders

Written by Barbara Brody

• What Is the Endocrine System?
• What Is a Gland?
• Endocrine System Functions
• Parts of the Endocrine System
• Health Issues
• Endocrine System Disorders
• More

The endocrine system is a network of glands in your body that make the hormones that help cells talk to each other. They’re responsible for almost every cell, organ, and function in your body.

If your endocrine system isn’t healthy, you might have problems developing during puberty, getting pregnant, or managing stress. You also might gain weight easily, have weak bones, or lack energy because too much sugar stays in your blood instead of moving into your cells where it’s needed for energy.

A gland is an organ that makes and puts out hormones that do a specific job in your body. Endocrine and exocrine glands release the substances they make into your bloodstream.

Your endocrine system:

• Makes hormones that control your moods, growth and development, metabolism, organs, and reproduction
• Controls how your hormones are released
• Sends those hormones into your bloodstream so they can travel to other body parts

Many glands make up the endocrine system. The hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and pineal gland are in your brain. The thyroid and parathyroid glands are in your neck. The thymus is between your lungs, the adrenals are on top of your kidneys, and the pancreas is behind your stomach. Your ovaries (if you’re a woman) or testes (if you’re a man) are in your pelvic region.

• Hypothalamus. This organ connects your endocrine system with your nervous system. Its main job is to tell your pituitary gland to start or stop making hormones.
• Pituitary gland. This is your endocrine system’s master gland. It uses information it gets from your brain to tell other glands in your body what to do. It makes many important hormones, including growth hormone; prolactin, which helps breastfeeding moms make milk; antidiuretic hormone(ADH) (vasopressin), which controls blood pressure and helps control body water balance through its effect on the kidney, corticotropin /ACTH: Adrenocorticotrophic hormone. which stimulates the adrenal gland to make certain hormones, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which stimulates the production and secretion of thyroid hormones, oxytocin which helps in milk ejection during breast feeding; and luteinizing hormone, which manages estrogen in women and testosterone in men.
• Pineal gland. It makes a chemical called melatonin that helps your body get ready to go to sleep.
• Thyroid gland. This gland makes thyroid hormone, which controls your growth and metabolism. If this gland doesn’t make enough (a condition called hypothyroidism), everything happens more slowly. Your heart rate might slow down. You could get constipated. And you might gain weight. If it makes too much (hyperthyroidism), everything speeds up. Your heart might race. You could have diarrhea. And you might lose weight without trying. The thyroid gland also produces the hormone calcitonin, which may contribute to bone strength by helping calcium to be incorporated into bone.
• Parathyroid. This is a set of four small glands behind your thyroid. They play a role in bone health. The glands control your levels of calcium and phosphorus.
• Thymus. This gland makes white blood cells called T-lymphocytes that fight infection and are crucial as a child’s immune system develops. The thymus starts to shrink after puberty.
• Adrenals. Best known for making the “fight or flight” hormone adrenaline (also called epinephrine), these two glands also make hormones called corticosteroids. They affect your metabolism heart rate, oxygen intake, blood flow, and sexual function, among other things.
• Pancreas. This organ is part of both your digestive and endocrine systems. It makes digestive enzymes that break down food. It also makes the hormones insulin and glucagon. These ensure you have the right amount of sugar in your bloodstream and your cells.
• If you don’t make insulin, which is the case for people with type 1 diabetes, your blood sugar levels can get dangerously high. In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas usually makes some insulin but not enough.
• Ovaries. In women, these organs make estrogen and progesterone. These hormones help develop breasts at puberty, regulate the menstrual cycle, and support a pregnancy.
• Testes. In men, the testes make testosterone. It helps them grow facial and body hair at puberty. It also tells the penis to grow larger and plays a role in making sperm.

As you get older, it’s natural to notice some things related to your endocrine system. Your metabolism tends to slow down. So you might gain weight even though you haven’t changed how you eat or exercise. Hormonal shifts also explain, at least in part, why you’re more likely to have heart disease, osteoporosis, and type 2 diabetes as you age.

No matter how old you are, stress, infections, and being around certain chemicals can also mess with parts of your endocrine system. And genetics or lifestyle habits can increase your chances of an endocrine disorder like hypothyroidism, diabetes, or osteoporosis.

• Acromegaly. Sometimes the pituitary gland makes too much growth hormone and your bones get bigger. It usually affects your hands, feet, and face. It usually starts in middle age.
• Adrenal insufficiency. When you have this, your adrenal glands don’t make enough of certain hormones, like cortisol, which controls stress.
• Cushing’s disease. In this, your body makes too much cortisol. You could gain weight, get stretch marks, bruise easily at first, then get weakened muscles and bones and possibly develop a hump on your upper back.
• Hyperthyroidism. This is when your thyroid gland makes more hormones than your body needs. You might hear it called overactive thyroid. It makes your system run fast and you might feel nervous, lose weight, and have a rapid heartbeat or trouble sleeping.
• Hypothyroidism. When your body doesn’t make enough thyroid hormone, your system slows down. You might feel tired, gain weight, have a slow heartbeat, and get joint and muscle pains.
• Hypopituitarism. Sometimes your pituitary gland doesn’t make enough of certain hormones and your adrenal and thyroid glands can’t work right.
• Multiple endocrine neoplasia. This is a group of disorders that affect your endocrine system. It causes tumors on at least two endocrine glands or in other organs and tissues.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome. An imbalance of reproductive hormones can cause your ovaries to either not make an egg or not release it during ovulation. This can throw off your periods, cause acne, and make hair to grow on your face or chin.
• Precocious puberty. When glands that control reproduction don’t work properly, some kids start puberty abnormally early — around 8 in girls and 9 in boys.

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General symptoms arising from diseases of the thyroid gland.

Clinic of the Thyroid Gland of Dr. A. V. Ushakov – official site.

Clinic of the Thyroid

General overview

Symptoms help to pay attention to the disease. Therefore, it is true that almost every patient, having suspected something was wrong, tries to understand whether there are signs of changes in his thyroid gland.

Most people are not familiar with the symptoms of thyroid disease. Some guess what kind of manifestations are associated with thyroid hormone metabolism. Others think they know everything about thyroid symptoms, but don’t even realize how few symptoms come from the thyroid gland itself. It really is. One of these actual thyroid symptoms is an enlargement of the gland and its protrusion (goiter).

Masking or general symptoms

There is a group of symptoms that can occur with different diseases. Even those that have nothing to do with the thyroid gland. They are as common in women as they are in men. These signs of the disease do not depend on age. Can be observed in children, in adulthood and in the elderly.

These are general symptoms. Doctors call them nonspecific. Such symptoms can accompany various diseases of different organs and systems of the body.

For example, at an appointment in our Clinic one often hears such complaints-symptoms: they can’t do anything else”…

– “it’s hard to wake up”, “drowsiness almost never goes away during the day”, “nothing in the morning and only by noon I work out, but by the evening I have no strength again and I want to sleep”, “I need to drink 2 -3 cups of coffee and take a cold shower, otherwise I can’t work, because. I want to sleep “…

– “no vitality”, “almost no strength”, “lethargy”…

– “difficult to think”, “began to forget (where I put something, what I wanted to buy, names of actors…)”, “it is difficult to systematize ”, “I can’t remember what I just wanted to do”, “I can’t switch from one topic to another as I used to”…

― “became excessively irritable”, “everything irritates me”, “I understand, but nothing I can’t help my reaction – it’s worth hurting me and . .. ”,“ I restrain myself not to answer ”…

Add to these symptoms habitual headaches, coughing, occasional discharge of mucus from the nose or throat, slight changes in body temperature, desire to take a full breath, etc. Not even every doctor can associate all these signs of the disease with the thyroid gland. What to say about the patient?

Indeed, do we not have periods of weakness or drowsiness? Headache is unpleasant, but is it a thyroid symptom? Memory impairment can be “attributed” to age, and with such a complaint, a neurologist will “find” his neurological disease and prescribe medications to improve metabolic processes in the brain. Almost every person has met all of the listed symptoms with colds, flu, bronchitis, pneumonia and other pathological processes.

These symptoms do not always hide a lack of thyroid hormones. But with a deficiency of thyroid hormones (T3f. and T4f.), Which is simultaneously accompanied by an increase in TSH, all of the listed signs of the disease are also possible.

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Thyroid skin symptoms

The skin, like other organs, also needs thyroid hormones. Therefore, with their deficiency, changes may appear on the surface of the body.

Patients of our Clinic, when asked about the manifestations of the disease, often report dry skin. This is most pronounced on the outer side of the folds of the limbs (elbows and knees). There, the skin becomes rougher, which not only draws attention, but also forces one to take ineffective measures.

Red spots may appear in the neck area (front) during emotional stress. They pass as soon as the patient calms down and turns his attention to less disturbing circumstances.

Sometimes (rarely) white spots may appear in the projection of the supraclavicular and subclavian fossae. This phenomenon is called vitiligo. In some cases, such a symptom may decrease and even disappear. But usually it is stable. If in the case of red spots a direct relationship with the excitation of peripheral nerve centers is usually determined, then with white spots the role of the nervous system is supplemented by other individual circumstances of the disease process.

Since hair is an appendage of the skin, it also reacts sensitively to the amount of thyroid hormones in the blood (do not confuse thyroid hormones T3 and T4 with the pituitary hormone TSH, which does not affect the skin in any way).

Head hair loss can occur in both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Even with euthyroidism, this symptom occurs. It is based not only on the direct effect of thyroid hormones on the roots (follicles) of the hair, but also on the indirect effect on the nerve cells that regulate the nutrition of each hair. The condition of the hair itself also depends on these conditions.

There may be hair loss on the limbs and trunk. With proper treatment, the volume of the hairline is usually restored. Skin symptoms include changes in sweating. Both excessive sweating and dryness can be observed.

Restlessness in the neck

Almost 25-30% of our patients complain of typical sensations in the front of the neck. This is a relatively common symptom in diseases of the thyroid gland. It is more common in women and less common in men.

In such cases, one can hear such words: “I feel a lump in my throat”, “I am choking”, “periodically squeezing”. Some patients report: “I can’t wear clothes with a collar and high collars. I want to free my neck.

There is a variety of “cervical” symptoms. Sometimes there is a periodic causeless itching of the skin of the neck. Someone feels an accumulation of mucus in the throat and cannot cough it up. At the same time, an examination by an ENT doctor does not reveal any mucus. There are varying degrees of voice impairment. Someone points out that there were unmotivated desires to cough, “soreness” and “soreness” in the throat (without any cold), they report that they have to “cough”.

All these “cervical” symptoms in diseases of the thyroid gland clearly point to an important part in the basis of the disease. Unfortunately, our colleagues do not know about it. In the Clinic of Dr. A.V. Ushakov specialists carefully study such symptoms. They help to choose individual treatment. Therefore, try to tell our doctors about your feelings and answer clarifying questions.

In Dr. A. V. Ushakov’s monograph “Benign Thyroid Diseases” (2013), we shared with colleagues our knowledge of the clinical significance of this group of symptoms that are often found in thyroid diseases. They are based on a significant activation of certain nerve centers that regulate the corresponding structures of the neck, including the skin, muscles, neck ligaments and the thyroid gland itself. In our Clinic, the state of these nerve centers is diagnosed, individual treatment is prescribed and carried out.

Weight (weight) of the body in diseases of the thyroid gland

Almost every third of our patients pays attention to changes in their weight. Usually this is an increase in weight, and much less often a decrease.

Among the symptoms of the thyroid gland, a change in body weight is perceived as the most characteristic sign of thyroid pathology. But it is not so. In each case, you need to carefully find out the mechanism of the development of the disease, its individual characteristics and connection with the state of the thyroid gland and its hormonal metabolism.

The diagnosis should not be simply determined by changes in body weight. It is not uncommon to read in other publications that with hypothyroidism, body weight increases, and with hyperthyroidism (thyrotoxicosis), body weight decreases. In reality, such an attitude is not common, and it is not rare that it is even the other way around. Why is that?

In this case, the “weight” symptom is influenced by two circumstances. First, in most patients, the manifestation of thyroid disease is mild or moderate. Nowadays, we are all more attentive to our health, and living conditions and awareness of diseases have improved significantly compared to those years (the first half of the 20th century), when body weight changed in contrast and articles and books were written, from which standard lists are still being rewritten. symptoms. In such cases, body weight does not have time to “respond”. Sometimes patients end up in better conditions. At the same time, thyroid hormone metabolism improves, which also affects weight. He oscillates in both directions.

Secondly, the activity of the sympathetic or parasympathetic part of the autonomic nervous system may predominate in a person. Therefore, regardless of the name of the hormonal state (euthyroidism, hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism), different changes in body weight can be observed. That is why with hyperthyroidism (thyrotoxicosis) weight may not change or even increase, and with hypothyroidism it may decrease.

Cardiac and vascular symptoms

Experienced patients are aware of tachycardia (increased heart rate), bradycardia (decrease in heart rate) and palpitations – a symptom when a person himself feels how the heart contracts. Try not to confuse tachycardia with palpitations.

Tachycardia (determined by rapid pulse) is almost always observed in thyrotoxicosis. But this is not a mandatory sign of thyrotoxicosis. A rapid heart rate can occur with euthyroidism and even hypothyroidism. Therefore, it is wrong to diagnose only by the pulse, not paying attention to the hormonal blood test.

Sleep disorders in thyroid diseases

Almost every 2nd and necessarily 3rd patient with thyroid disease during a diagnostic questioning reports a change in his sleep. The symptoms of “sleep disturbance” here are the same as in other diseases. They are not specific to thyroid diseases, but they help to navigate the overall development of the disease and choose the appropriate full-fledged treatment.

Some patients report that if they are very sleepy at 21.00 or 22.00, it is very difficult to fall asleep later. It turns out only at 1.00-2.00 at night. Others say that they wake up at night (at 2.00, 3.00 or 4.00) and cannot fall asleep. At the same time, thoughts of various worries may arise that are difficult to overcome. Still others indicate an early awakening. Fourth, on the contrary, regardless of the fact that they sleep all night, in the morning they feel not rested without sleep.

Almost all such symptoms of sleep disturbance clearly orientate in the excitation of specific nerve centers, which also have an overstraining effect on the thyroid gland.

Thyroid eye symptoms

With thyrotoxicosis (hyperthyroidism), various eye disorders can sometimes occur. The most common protrusion of the eyeballs from the orbits (exophthalmos). This symptom of thyrotoxicosis can be unilateral, occur on both sides and be expressed in different ways (i.e., the eyeballs can protrude to varying degrees).

Exophthalmos in diseases of the thyroid gland does not depend on the amount of hormones and antibodies. Its connection absolutely depends on the degree of excitation of the nerve cells that control the state of the extraorbital tissue and the eyes themselves. As the condition of these nerve cells improves, the eye signs of the disease decrease and disappear.

More about this symptom is described in the book of Dr. A. V. Ushakov “Restoration of the thyroid gland”.

Along with protrusion of the eyes, other signs associated with it appear (expansion of the palpebral fissure, rare blinking, dryness of the sclera of the eye, etc.).

This introductory article provides only partial guidance in an important area of ​​thyroid disease diagnosis, the signs. The science of symptoms in endocrinology in reality has a greater variety and volume of information about the mechanisms of development of manifestations of diseases. It is important for the patient not to overload himself with significant attention to the symptoms in order to exclude unnecessary emotional experiences. But, on the other hand, you should remember and write down the manifestations of the disease in order to convey this information to an experienced and knowledgeable doctor who can really help you.

In the Clinic of the Thyroid Gland of Dr. A. V. Ushakov, the study of symptoms and the history of the development of the disease in each patient is of great importance. Up to 30 minutes of the 2.5 hour “Diagnostics and Consultation” are allocated for this during the first appointment of the patient. For a full-fledged examination, it will be useful if the patient prepares in advance by writing a memo to himself with his symptoms and dates of events associated with the disease (when and what was detected, periods and doses of medication).

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Thyroid gland – what is it, where is it located, disease

Thyroid: general information

The thyroid gland (popularly “thyroid gland”) is a small organ located at the base of the neck. The thyroid gland is often compared to a butterfly because it also has “wings” (two lobes) and a “body” (an isthmus between the lobes). Each lobe is filled with follicles, special structures containing thyroid hormones.

The shape of the thyroid gland is an individual feature: sometimes one “wing” is larger than the other, and the “calf” may not be visible at all

Outside, the thyroid gland is covered with two layers: the first (outer) is in direct contact with the muscles of the larynx and the surrounding nerves, and the second creates a layer between the outer layer and the gland itself and allows it to move when a person swallows or talks.

The thyroid gland, along with the adrenal glands, hypothalamus, pituitary gland, ovaries and testicles, is part of the endocrine system. This system regulates the work of the body with the help of hormones.

The thyroid gland releases thyroid hormones into the blood – T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine). They affect the metabolic rate, heart rate, digestive system, vitamin synthesis and even mood, as well as regulate body temperature and the menstrual cycle.

Iodine is needed for the synthesis of T3 and T4. This element is not produced in the body – it can be obtained from food or medicines. Most of all iodine is found in seaweed, seafood, fish, dairy products, egg yolks.

In addition to T3 and T4, thyroid cells produce another hormone – calcitonin. It regulates the exchange of calcium and phosphorus in the body.

The thyroid gland is controlled by the pituitary gland, a pea-sized gland located at the base of the brain that synthesizes thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). The interaction of the pituitary gland and the thyroid gland is arranged according to the principle of feedback. So, when the gland begins to produce less T4 than it needs, the level of TSH in the blood increases, and with an increase in the amount of T4, the level of TSH decreases.

If the work of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland or the thyroid gland itself is disturbed, the metabolism changes and the whole organism suffers.

Diseases of the thyroid gland

Malfunctions of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland or thyroid gland can occur for various reasons: due to certain medications, viral infections, iodine deficiency, chronic stress, autoimmune reactions, pregnancy and childbirth. In this case, both low activity of hormone production and high activity are considered a failure.

Without treatment, thyroid problems will only get worse and can lead to obesity, heart disease, inability to conceive or carry a child, and in some cases, coma.

The most common pathologies of the thyroid gland :

• hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces too much of the hormones T4 and T3;
• hypothyroidism – a condition in which the function of the thyroid gland is reduced, not enough hormones T4 and T3 are produced;
• thyroiditis – inflammation of the thyroid gland;
• Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disease that develops against the background of hyperproduction of the hormones T4 and T3;
• goiter – enlargement of the thyroid gland, often accompanied by hyperproduction of its hormones, which looks like a swelling on the neck;
• thyroid nodules – volumetric formations that can be both benign and malignant;
• Thyroid cancer is a malignant tumor formed from the cells of the gland.

Thyroid symptoms

Symptoms of thyroid pathologies vary. However, there is something in common: they increase gradually, so people may not notice for a long time that something has gone wrong.

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism (thyrotoxicosis)

Due to the overactive thyroid gland, the body literally goes crazy: metabolic processes are accelerated, systems begin to work intermittently.

Common symptoms of hyperthyroidism :

• causeless weight loss against the background of a constant feeling of hunger;
• palpitations – the pulse can be over 100 beats per minute at rest;
• cardiac arrhythmia;
• bloating, flatulence, diarrhea;
• fatigue;
• heat intolerance, feeling hot for no reason;
• increased sweating;
• irritability;
• insomnia;
• hand trembling;
• menstrual disorders in women;
• dry skin;
• hair loss or brittleness.

Women are 10 times more likely to be diagnosed with hyperthyroidism than men. Usually pathology starts at 20–40 years old

Due to hyperthyroidism, bones can become brittle, vision is reduced, cardiovascular disorders can join, up to heart failure and heart attack.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism

Deficiency of thyroid hormones initially presents with mild weakness and weight gain. Over time, more noticeable symptoms occur.

Common symptoms of hypothyroidism :

• unexplained weight gain;
• slow heart rate;
• lethargy, drowsiness;
• decrease in body temperature;
• hypersensitivity to cold;
• regular constipation;
• fatigue;
• swelling of the face, legs and arms;
• slow heartbeat;
• dry skin;
• brittle nails and hair;
• irregular menses;
• difficulty concentrating;
• depressed mood up to depression.

Most often, hypothyroidism is diagnosed in women over 40 years of age

Symptoms of thyroiditis

There are several types of thyroiditis – acute, subacute and chronic.

Acute and subacute thyroiditis are relatively rare. They occur due to a bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infection and are usually severe. A person’s temperature rises (up to 39-40 °C), he cannot turn his head, there is severe pain in the neck, which radiates to the ear or shoulder.

Chronic thyroiditis is much more common. It develops due to a malfunction in the immune system, as a result of which the body takes thyroid cells for pathogens and attacks them. Also, chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland can occur when taking certain medications, such as drugs for the treatment of arrhythmia and cancer, iodine-containing drugs, drugs with lithium.

People with chronic thyroiditis become depleted of thyroid hormones over time, symptoms of hypothyroidism develop: skin and hair become dry, and nails become brittle, hair begins to fall out, sensitivity to cold appears, general and muscle weakness, drowsiness, decreased concentration and deterioration memory, swelling, constipation, overweight, joint pain.

In addition, the thyroid gland gradually increases and over time begins to compress the surrounding organs and tissues and “solder” to them. Therefore, such thyroiditis causes symptoms from neighboring organs: shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, wheezing.

The risk of developing autoimmune thyroiditis increases with age

Symptoms of Graves’ disease

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disease that leads to an overactive thyroid gland and excessive production of hormones. As a result, the classic symptoms of hyperthyroidism occur: unreasonable weight loss, constant feeling of hunger, heart palpitations, flatulence and diarrhea, heat intolerance, excessive sweating, irritability.

A characteristic symptom of Graves’ disease is secondary exophthalmos, protrusion of the eyeball (bulging eyes)

In addition, in people with Graves’ disease, the skin condition changes, it becomes thickened, the microrelief is smoothed out, severe itching appears.

Symptoms of goiter

Goiter is an enlargement of the thyroid gland, a symptom of a number of diseases, and not an independent pathology. It can occur if the thyroid gland cannot cope with the production of hormones. In order to somehow compensate for their deficiency or excess, it begins to increase in volume.

Goiter looks like a round bump or swelling at the base of the neck

Signs of goiter :

• feeling of fullness in the neck,
• lump in throat,
• difficulty swallowing,
• cough,
• hoarseness.

Symptoms of thyroid nodules

Thyroid nodules look like lumps, consisting of clusters of thyroid cells. They can be solid or filled with liquid. Usually these are benign formations, they are detected in most adults. In rare cases, such a node can be a malignant tumor.

Most people are unaware that they have thyroid nodules because the condition does not cause symptoms. You can notice them when they grow and begin to squeeze neighboring tissues, the trachea and nerve endings.

The appearance of thyroid nodules may be accompanied by the following symptoms :

• swallowing disorder,
• neck pain,
• shortness of breath,
• hoarseness.

Symptoms of thyroid cancer

Thyroid cancer is a malignant tumor. Scientists still do not know exactly why it occurs. It is believed that genetic disorders are to blame.

Usually such tumors do not manifest themselves for a long time. Symptoms become noticeable as the tumor grows and include: swelling in the neck, difficulty swallowing, coughing, hoarseness.

In rare cases, thyroid cancer can affect hormone production and cause symptoms of hyper- or hypothyroidism.

Diagnosis of thyroid disorders

As a rule, thyroid diseases develop asymptomatically for a long time, so people do not go to the doctor in the early stages of pathologies. To understand that something is wrong with the organ, you will need to consult a specialist, as well as laboratory and instrumental examinations. In some cases, thyroid tissue is examined, for this a fine-needle biopsy is performed.

An endocrinologist deals with the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid diseases.

When to check the thyroid gland

Regular screening examinations help prevent severe pathologies. In addition, you should pay attention to your well-being. Sometimes even mild symptoms can signal a serious malfunction in the thyroid gland.

Early signs of thyroid dysfunction :

• sudden change in weight;
• swelling of the face;
• causeless irritability, tearfulness;
• neck discomfort;
• menstrual disorders;
• brittle nails and hair;
• stool problems;
• rapid or slow heartbeat.

To check how the thyroid gland works, blood tests for hormones T4, T3, and TSH help.

Assessment of thyroid function

Code 28.338.

Comprehensive study that helps diagnose thyroid diseases and monitor their treatment. It is recommended for people at risk for thyroid diseases, including residents of regions with a low natural iodine content in drinking water, and patients with a history of thyroid diseases.

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If their blood level is elevated, the doctor diagnoses hyperthyroidism. And if lowered – hypothyroidism.

These tests can detect problems in the thyroid gland, but cannot determine their cause. This will require additional research.

For example, to detect autoimmune damage to the thyroid gland, a doctor prescribes blood tests for antibodies to thyroglobulin (AT-TG) and thyroid peroxidase (AT-TPO) – proteins that are found exclusively in the cells of the thyroid gland and are released when it is destroyed.

Cause of thyroid disease

Code 28.365.

Comprehensive study determines the content in the blood of antibodies to thyroglobulin (AT-TG) and thyroid peroxidase (AT-TPO) – proteins that are found exclusively in the cells of the thyroid gland. The analysis allows to identify autoimmune lesions of the thyroid gland. May be used as an adjunct to screening thyroid function assessment.

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If a neoplasm in the thyroid gland is suspected, the doctor prescribes an ultrasound examination (ultrasound) to assess the structure of the organ itself and the pathological element.

In addition, scintigraphy may be performed. This research method allows you to get an image of the organ, which shows changes in the tissue. To do this, a radioactive drug is injected into a vein, which enters the thyroid gland with the blood flow. A special device captures the radiation and converts it into a computer image.

At the same time, “hot” nodes may appear on the monitor – zones of more active accumulation of the radiopharmaceutical, and “cold” ones – not accumulating the radiopharmaceutical. “Hot” nodes most often correspond to areas with active synthesis of thyroid hormones, for example, with nodular thyrotoxic goiter. “Cold” zones of reduced activity usually correspond to cysts, fibrosis, thyroiditis, malignant neoplasms of the thyroid gland.

Thyroid scintigraphy shows inflammatory lesions that stain blue

Treatment of thyroid disorders

Treatment will differ depending on the cause of the disease. So, some pathologies require surgical intervention, others are treated with the help of medications. In some cases, no therapy is used at all, but it is important for the patient to be under medical supervision.

Persistent hypo- or hyperthyroidism is treated with thyroid hormone preparations. As a rule, they need to be taken for a long time. They correct the work of the organ and usually quickly alleviate the condition of a person.

Prevention of thyroid disease

No specific prevention of thyroid disease has been developed. However, the health of an organ largely depends on the supply of iodine to the body, so doctors recommend paying attention to the prevention of its deficiency. Especially often, pregnant and lactating women, newborns, as well as residents of regions remote from the sea face iodine deficiency.

It is usually sufficient for adults to receive 150 micrograms of iodine per day, for pregnant and lactating women – at least 250. For children, other norms are established: children under one year old need to receive at least 50 micrograms, from 1 year to 7 years – 90, from 7 to 12 years old – 120.

According to the WHO, more than 2 billion people live with iodine deficiency. There are no territories in Russia where its deficiency has not been registered.

The human body does not produce iodine on its own, but receives it only from food. There is a lot of this mineral in sea water, so seaweed, fish and seafood are especially rich in iodine. It is found in smaller quantities in dairy products and eggs.

Foods rich in iodine :

• seaweed,
• cod,
• cranberry,
• squid,
• milk,
• eggs.

Not everyone needs to take supplements or multivitamins with iodine, but only those who have been prescribed them by a doctor based on the results of blood tests.

Abuse of iodine is not worth it – an excess, like a deficiency, is dangerous to health

Due to the fact that it is not always possible to get enough iodine from food, salt, bread and other products have been iodized in Russia. Thanks to this, there are fewer people with iodine deficiency.