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Thyroid

Definition

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck that produces hormones, primarily thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which regulate the body's metabolic rate as well as heart and digestive function, muscle control, brain development, mood, and bone maintenance.

Analogy

Think of the thyroid like your body's thermostat. Just like how a thermostat controls the temperature in your house by adjusting it up or down based on what's needed, your thyroid adjusts your metabolism - if you need more energy it turns it up; if you need less, it turns it down.

Related terms

Endocrine System: This is the collection of glands that produce hormones that regulate metabolism, growth and development, tissue function, sexual function, reproduction, sleep and mood among other things.

Hypothyroidism: This is a condition where the thyroid does not produce enough hormones causing fatigue, weight gain and depression among other symptoms.

Hyperthyroidism: This is a condition where the thyroid produces too much hormone leading to rapid heartbeat, weight loss and nervousness among other symptoms.