Causes of low thyroid function. Thyroid dysfunction

The thyroid gland is the largest delicate organ big influence on the healthy state of the human body, requires careful attention to various manifestations imbalance in his work, does not tolerate neglect of his treatment.

A very important role belongs to the thyroid gland, starting from embryonic development and further at all stages of growth. From normal function thyroid gland depends on the health, all-round full development of a person.

The thyroid gland has the form of two petals connected to each other, they lie in front of the trachea. It is easy to find it between the thyroid cartilage and the rings (5 - 6) of the trachea.

The size of the gland changes with age:

an infant has approximately one gram;
adult human from 20 to 30 g;
the largest parameters of the body are possible 14 - 17 years;
after 45 years, weight decreases due to aging of the body.

The female thyroid is slightly smaller than the male. Its size increases during pregnancy. She has two capsules. The outer capsule performs the main function of the binding tool needed for strong fixation of the organ to the trachea and larynx.

As a person grows older, its location may change slightly. In children, the thyroid gland is on the same level as the thyroid cartilage, then in age it falls lower. The organ occupies a similar position with sternal goiter.

In order for the organ to function normally, a significant amount of blood is required. For this reason, it is equipped with an extensive venous and developed arterial system. Therefore, the color of the organ in a healthy state is red-brown. If we compare the intensity of blood flow with other organs, then in the body of the thyroid gland the intensity is 50 times greater than in the muscles. The blood flow rate can increase if ailments occur, the result of which is the rapid growth of hormones.

Blood is supplied to the thyroid gland with the help of thyroid arteries, which form anastomoses with each other. When the supplied blood supplies oxygen to the tissues of the thyroid gland, it collects waste substances and is concentrated in the veins located under the capsule. The venous outflow is produced through the unpaired plexus.

The outflow occurs as a result of vigorous activity of the venous, as well as lymphatic systems. If pathologies occur, then thyroid-stimulating and thyroblocking immunoglobulins, as well as antithyroid antibodies, are removed from the gland.

The thyroid gland can store some hormones in droplets, and some may be bound to a carrier protein in the blood.

The thyroid gland has sympathetic and parasympathetic innervation. It is produced by parts of the nerve fibers of the autonomic system of the body, that is, thanks to the threads vagus nerve, as well as the fibers of the cervical ganglia. -

The main function of the thyroid gland in the body is to produce useful substances from iodine and tyrosine directly into the blood:

Thyroxine or tetraiodothyronine - T4. Contributes to the regulation of energy metabolism, protein synthesis, overall growth and normal proportional development of the body with early years.
Triiodothyronine - T3. The organ reproduces only 20%.
Calcitonin - This thyroid hormone does not contain iodine. It is important for regulating the amount of both calcium and phosphorus in the blood. It is necessary for the implementation of impulse messages of nerve endings in muscle tissues.

The main intrasecretory activity of the thyroid gland is carried out, that is, the metabolic actions of the body are regulated, the activity of the cardiovascular system is also digestive systems, psycho-emotional and sexual activity. The work of the thyroid gland is very important during the period early childhood, since the development of brain activity, among other things, depends on its normal activity.

The entire process of hormonal synthesis is regulated by thyroid-stimulating hormone - TSH, which produces the anterior pituitary gland. TSH itself receives signals from the thyrotropin-releasing hormone TRH, which is produced by the hypothalamus.

One part of the brain - the pituitary gland regulates the amount of hormone production, the other part - the hypothalamus assists the pituitary gland in the production of this control. The work is carried out according to the scheme: the hypothalamus gives information to the pituitary gland, the pituitary gland controls the thyroid gland. The pituitary gland performs a controlling function on the amount of hormones in the blood. If hormones are not enough, TSH increases, which instructs the gland to increase their synthesis.

All activity of the thyroid gland is controlled by the hypothalamus together with the pituitary gland. The hypothalamus produces a substance that monitors thyroid function - thyrotropin-releasing hormone - TRH. When it enters the pituitary gland, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is synthesized, which activates the synthesis of T4 and T3. T4 - able to turn into T3. And T3 is able to activate cellular activity.

When the synthesis of the amount of hormones is restored, the pituitary gland stops the production of TSH, returning to normal state, preventing the creation of a hyperfunction. If the rhythm is not restored, then treatment is required.

The thyroid gland is involved in the performance of important functions:

It controls body temperature.
Regulation of heart rate.
Activates the production of brain cells (especially important in early age).
Stimulates proportional physical growth and normal development organism.
Stimulate work nervous system, increases the level of attention and speed of reactions.

The role of the thyroid gland in the human body is so significant for the normal functioning of the human body, so do not underestimate them.

Having small size, it, through the substances it produces, affects almost all life processes:

Its main activity is to support normal cycle metabolism that takes place in cells.
Thyroids are required to create conditions for the proportional development of a person. If there are not enough of them from infancy, then a slowdown or complete cessation of growth is likely, and if there is a shortage of them during gestation in the woman's body, it is possible that the baby's brain will not develop properly.
The thyroid gland monitors body weight control. If there is an increased intake of food, its activity is activated, that is, the synthesis of T3 increases, which leads to an increase in metabolism. Conversely, if malnutrition occurs, activity decreases, processes of slow metabolism occur.
The role of the thyroid gland is known healthy condition mammary glands in women.
Without the thyroid, the immune system cannot function. It stimulates T cells to help the system fight off infections.
The thyroid gland plays an important role during aging.
The thyroid gland affects the water-salt balance and the formation of vitamins (for example, the synthesis of vitamin A by the liver).
Without the thyroid gland, there is no effect of growth hormones on the brain centers.

The substances produced by the thyroid gland contribute to the regulation of homeostasis, which performs some very important features:

Participates in regulating metabolic processes. Responsible for structural education cells. Monitors the process of cell death (apoptosis).
Thyroid substances control temperature, energy reproduction, that is, they create a caloric effect. Due to this, tissues are saturated with oxygen. Control the presence of free radicals.
Thyrotropic substances develop the mental and physical abilities of a person, as well as his psycho-emotional state. When not enough of them are produced in the baby's body, then development slows down, appear terrible diseases. When a deficiency occurs during the period of bearing a child, then cretinism is possible.
Normal activity of the thyroid gland ensures the formation immune system. People get the opportunity to resist infectious diseases.

Part endocrine system includes a number of organs called glands internal secretion, whose main function in the body is the synthesis active substances- hormones responsible for the flow and regulation of metabolic processes. One of these glands is the thyroid gland, which is a symmetrical organ and consists of a pair of lobes and an isthmus. In its unchanged state, it weighs 20 - 64 g, and its volume varies greatly depending on many factors. So, iron increases in adolescence. In the elderly, the volume of this organ gradually decreases. The thyroid gland in pregnant women also undergoes changes that disappear after childbirth.

Thyroid functions

The role of the thyroid gland in the body is enormous and if its functions are violated, a number of symptoms appear, manifested in a general deterioration in well-being, heart failures, imbalance of the nervous system, and changes in the digestive tract.

Iron synthesizes two types of iodine-containing substances: t
Iroxin (T4), triiodronine (T3), and calcitonin, which is a peptide hormone. All these hormones are responsible for homeostasis in the body, metabolic processes and apoptosis. Thyroid substances also play a significant role in maintaining temperature and energy synthesis, regulating oxygen consumption by other organs, and controlling the production and elimination of free radicals.

During life, thyrotropin and triiodothyronine are responsible for the growth and development of the body and, if they are deficient in childhood almost all organs and systems suffer, which leads to short stature and mental retardation.

Women are the most susceptible to thyroid disease. This is largely due to hormonal surges and changes occurring in female body throughout life.

Thyroid disorders in women

Most often, thyroid disorders in women begin to occur already in adolescence. During pregnancy, diseases of this organ are detected in 12% of cases. Gland dysfunction is often associated with other diseases: diabetes, anemia, autoimmune processes, rheumatoid arthritis. According to the data, in 22% of women suffering from diseases associated with malfunctions of the immune system, thyroid dysfunction is detected.

Depending on the nature of disorders in the gland, girls may either early start menstruation (up to 9 years), or its delay (after 16 years). With thyroid hyperfunction, usually puberty delayed. Her illnesses may also be a consequence of Turner's syndrome, which refers to genetic pathologies in the body, as a result of which there is a violation of the formation of the ovaries. In this case, the first menstruation begins only if hormonal treatment is carried out.

In adult women, hypersecretion of thyroid hormones causes irregular and short cycle menstruation. On the contrary, with the hypofunction of this endocrine organ, the secretions become too intense, which often leads to chronic anemia. In addition, these women also have a pronounced premenstrual syndrome, which is manifested by weight gain, swelling, constipation, bad mood and high fatigue.

Hypothyroidism is often diagnosed in women during menopause. In turn, disorders in the thyroid gland can lead to premature aging. In some women with hypofunction of the gland, menopause occurs before the age of forty. Often, many confuse the symptoms of this period with the manifestation of hyperthyroidism: with an excess of thyroid hormones, insomnia, feelings of heat, tachycardia, anxiety and tearfulness develop. All these symptoms pass quite quickly if a woman is diagnosed with thyroid hyperfunction in a timely manner and appropriate treatment is prescribed.

Common Symptoms of Thyroid Dysfunction

Very often, the symptoms of thyroid disorders are confused with other diseases, since a number of systems in the body suffer. Often people begin to treat heart disease, digestive tract, nervous and reproductive systems. That is why an important role is given to the diagnosis of the state of the gland, since its function in the body is very large.

Symptoms of gland dysfunction that women should be aware of are as follows:

First of all at developing disease thyroid gland begins to suffer precisely reproductive system, which is manifested by a change in the cycle and volume of secretions.

The most common diseases

Most often, women are diagnosed with diseases such as hypothyroidism, autoimmune thyroiditis, tumors, hyperthyroidism. With hypothyroidism in the blood, a reduced amount of thyroid hormones is observed, with hyperthyroidism - increased. Autoimmune thyroiditis is associated with failures occurring in the immune system, in which the thyroid gland begins to suffer.

Thyroid dysfunction is treated with hormonal drugs. Most often, endocrinologists prescribe L-thyroxine to patients. As an addition to therapy, women are prescribed a special diet, multivitamin preparations are prescribed.

Often, especially after 40 years, a seal is detected in the thyroid gland in women. It can be a node, cyst, carcinoma, adenoma. Such formations with very small sizes may not manifest themselves for a long time, while the woman's well-being remains on normal level. Most often, it is the deterioration in health that becomes the reason for the diagnosis of the thyroid gland, during which a seal is detected. A tumor can be dangerous if it is malignant. That is why treatment must be timely. Most commonly prescribed surgical removal neoplasms and radioiodine therapy.

If the tumor is benign, it must also be treated, since there is always some risk of its transformation into a pathological one. The neoplasm can grow rapidly, causing problems with swallowing, eating, breathing. With a large tumor size, there is cosmetic defect in the neck area, so the treatment is carried out surgically.

Principles of treatment of the thyroid gland in women

Treatment of the thyroid gland associated with hypo- or hyperthyroidism is carried out medications. After complete diagnosis organ to the patient are assigned certain dosages preparations containing thyroxine, triiodothyronine. Disorders can be treated combined means, simultaneously containing analogues of gland hormones, as well as iodine.

Often a scheme is prescribed with Iodomarin and others multivitamin preparations. Since the use of synthetic analogues affects some systems, dosages are selected individually, and, as a rule, treatment begins with the smallest doses of drugs. Hormone levels need to be monitored every three weeks.

Treatment of hyperthyroidism includes the use of antithyroid drugs, a special diet. Sometimes the disease needs to be treated with beta-blockers. This substance affects the body's sensitivity to thyroid hormones, reducing the symptoms of the disease. Treatment with such drugs should be carried out with caution and under the supervision of a specialist, since atrophy of the gland tissues may develop.

Autoimmune diseases should be treated with drugs that inhibit the inflammatory autoimmune process. If the treatment is carried out correctly, the patient quickly passes the symptoms of disorders: tachycardia, irritability, sweating. If the disease has led to a strong growth of the thyroid gland, it is necessary to treat it surgically.

The thyroid gland is one of the most important elements human body. It ensures the correct flow of many physiological processes, and its deficiency can lead to very serious problems with health. It contains 30 times more iodine than blood, which explains high risk functional failures of this body.

Structure

The thyroid gland is located in the neck, slightly above the junction of the collarbones. It has a symmetrical shape that resembles a butterfly or the letter "H". Its two lobes are connected by an isthmus. Its volume ranges from 18 ml in women and up to 25 ml in men, weight can be from 12 to 25 grams. This organ is actively supplied with blood, passing through itself about eight of its own volumes in 1 minute. Blood supply occurs through the arteries, located in pairs above and below, the veins located under the gland are responsible for the outflow of blood.

Interesting fact. Thyroid problems are less common in men, while cyclicity female cycle often leads to a failure of its functions.

The endocrine organ covered connective tissue, under which there are follicles of different sizes. different size cells due to the ability to produce and store hormones at the same time, not throw them into the blood.

Functions

The main function of the thyroid gland is the synthesis of hormones responsible for growth, development, and maintenance of body temperature. The amount of their production is controlled by the pituitary gland, and the latter is regulated by the hypothalamus. Both are located near the brain. These three elements are part unified system which controls all other processes and the state of the organism as a whole.

Table of the norm of the volume of the thyroid gland in women and men.

Hormones

T4 (thyroxine)

One of the thyroid hormones. It is made from two components: iodine and tyrosine. Is inactive. Main tasks:

regulates metabolism;
accelerates protein synthesis;
promotes the absorption of vitamins;
accelerates the processes of oxidation in brain cells;
reduces appetite;
improves physical endurance;
controls growth and development.

On a note. Some of the fair sex use preparations containing T4 for fast weight loss. It must be remembered that the abuse of this method can lead to health problems.

The norm of thyroxine is approximately the same for men and women under 40 years of age. At an older age, its production in women decreases. During the third trimester of pregnancy, the peak of its production occurs. The concentration of thyroxin depends on the time of day and season. T4 is most active in morning hours and from September to February.

Reasons for increasing T4:

high bilirubin;
excess weight;
disorders of the thyroid gland;
chronic liver diseases;
thyrotoxicosis;
taking some medicines.

The norm of thyroid hormones.

Its elevated rate can often be determined only by symptoms: increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, frequent headaches, prolonged fever body, limb tremor, increased appetite, sharp drops mood, bad dream.

Deficiency of thyroxin is very rare and can be easily eliminated. At the same time, medicines containing T4 are prescribed, as well as iodine preparations.

T3 (triiodothyronine)

It is necessary to maintain energy metabolic processes, which enhances nerve conduction. This allows you to regulate the metabolic processes in bone tissues and the cardiovascular system.

Reasons for lowering T3:

excess iodine;
removal of diffuse toxic goiter;
mental disorders;
lack of protein foods in the diet;
hyperthyroidism;
insufficiency of adrenal function;
removal of the thyroid gland (whole or a separate part of it);
Hashimoto's thyroiditis (an autoimmune disease).

Important. A decrease in T3 is much less dangerous than a decrease in T4. In addition, low T3 is normal for the third trimester of pregnancy.

What affects the increase in T3:

overweight;
thyroid dysfunction, often temporarily developing in the postpartum period;
thyroiditis;
HIV infection;
chronic liver disease;
hyperestrogenism;
taking hormonal drugs (including oral contraceptives).

Note. Often, when prescribing tests, the detection of a free level of T3 is prescribed. Triiodothyronine, entering the bloodstream, binds to proteins for transportation to the desired part of the body. Such T3 is called general. The remaining (unbound) hormone is called free. By analogy, free thyroxine is detected.

Communication TSH, T3 and T4

TSH is a thyroid-stimulating hormone produced by the pituitary gland. It controls the production of T3 and T4. Normally, high TSH implies low T3 and T4. Thyroxine and triiodothyronine are related. The first is the most produced thyroid hormone (90% of the total volume) and consists of four iodine atoms. One of the detached atoms becomes triiodothyronine.

On a note. The type of disease is determined by the level of all three hormones. Elevated levels of T3 and T4 in the blood suppress the production of TSH.

High TSH is a signal of a failure in the endocrine system. This can be both a weakening of the functions of the pituitary gland and the thyroid gland. With a decrease in the efficiency of the latter, the pituitary gland specifically increases the release of TSH, provoking an increase in the levels of T3 and T4.

Calcitonin

Controls the amount of calcium. As a person ages, it is produced less, but a sharp increase in this thyroid hormone in women is not a sign of illness during pregnancy or lactation.

Important! Calcitonin is a tumor marker - its increase may mean the appearance of cancer of this endocrine organ. The hormone has no lower limit, it is necessary to control its upper level.

The tasks of the hormone:

blood saturation with calcium by affecting some cells bone tissue(these cells are destroyed, releasing calcium and supplying it to the blood);
stimulation of the conversion of vitamin D into its active form for the synthesis of calcitriol, which transports calcium ions into the blood from the small intestine;
increased reabsorption of calcium from primary urine.

Fact. This element is still poorly understood, but is very useful for determining the presence of oncology.

Tests for hormones

Analyzes are prescribed on the recommendation of the attending physician. It is he who determines required list hormones, timing of tests, and additional methods diagnostics (ultrasound, blood tests, urine tests, etc.). Based on the results of the research, it is determined how to treat the thyroid gland. Indications for testing:

tachycardia;
problems in the reproductive system;
low libido;
violation of the digestive tract;
tremor of the limbs;
abrupt mood swings;
weakness;
depression;
deterioration of hair, skin and nails;
overweight with low appetite;
underweight with increased appetite.

Important. Symptoms of a malfunctioning thyroid gland in women are irregular menstruation and infertility, and in men - impotence.

The main types of analyzes:

T3 is free.
T4 is free.
Calcitonin.
Anti-thyroglobulin antibodies are the ratio of antibodies to the protein used to produce T3, T4 and TSH. Their number reveals a violation of the functions of the autoimmune system.
Antibodies to thyroid peroxidase - the ratio of the amount of antibodies to enzymes. If these antibodies are detected, autoimmune diseases can be diagnosed.

A month before the study, it is necessary to stop the use of hormone-containing drugs, and a few days - iodine preparations. You need to take tests on an empty stomach, the last meal should be no earlier than 10 hours before the examination. For several days you can not take alcohol, fatty, spicy and salty. Before some types of examinations, it is recommended to refrain from stress as much as possible, and also not to be nervous during blood sampling for analysis.

Remember. Even a little stress before donating blood for hormones can significantly inflate the results of the tests.

The most common diseases

Hypothyroidism

The disease is expressed by insufficient synthesis of T3 and T4, which leads to a slow metabolism. Hypothyroidism can be primary or secondary.

Primary is the result of an insufficient amount of hormones due to damage to the thyroid gland, which can occur from physical damage, radiation, infections and autoimmune diseases, iodine deficiency.

The secondary case is associated with damage to the pituitary or hypothalamus and is very rare. Hypothyroidism can be congenital. In this situation, in newborns, the thyroid gland is absent or weakly expressed.

Causes of the primary form of the disease:

autoimmune diseases;
treatment or removal of diffuse toxic goiter;
iodine deficiency;
congenital pathologies (the most common factor is the underdevelopment of the endocrine organ).

Symptoms are such signs: general weakness and drowsiness, increased fatigue, distracted attention, a feeling of cold, swelling of the face and limbs, overweight, nausea, constipation, irregular menstruation, bad condition skin, nails and hair.

To diagnose hypothyroidism, examinations for hormone levels, a blood test for cholesterol, ultrasound, ECG, electroencephalography (to determine mental state). After the diagnosis is confirmed, hormone therapy to increase hormone levels. As a rule, it has a lifelong character.

On a note. At the very beginning of the treatment of hypothyroidism of the thyroid gland, the dose of hormones is quite large, but after the restoration of the norm of T3 and T4, it decreases. With an overdose of drugs, tachycardia, poor sleep, and in children - excessive activity may occur.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is an overactive thyroid gland and its symptoms and treatment are the opposite of hypothyroidism. The appearance of the disease is associated with increased thyroxine and triiodothyronine, it can also be referred to as thyrotoxicosis. It leads to an accelerated exchange of processes in the body. There are three forms of hyperthyroidism: mild, moderate, and severe.

Light. Slight weight loss, increased appetite, tachycardia, rapid pulse(80-100 strokes), excessive sweating. An increased content of T3 and T4 is diagnosed.
Average. Weight loss up to 10 kg, pulse about 100-120 beats, hyperhidrosis (sweating), mood swings, hand tremors.
Heavy. Sharp weight loss, constant tachycardia, pulse from 120-140 beats, heart failure, exophthalmos, tremor of the whole body.

Hyperthyroidism develops due to diffuse or toxic goiter, adenoma of one of the endocrine organs. If these diseases are not observed, then the reason is the destruction of thyrocytes against the background of autoimmune or postpartum thyroiditis.

Fact. Diseases this body are often associated with malfunctions of immune processes, as well as with long-term use of iodine preparations.

For diagnosis, tests are prescribed for the level of free T3, free T4 and TSH, ultrasound. Therapy in this case is aimed at reducing the production of thyroid hormones and may be drug treatment to reduce T3 and T4, the destruction of the thyroid gland by surgery or the restoration of its properties using computer reflexology.

Thyroiditis

The general name of the disease, depending on the form, may manifest itself in different ways. The main types of thyroiditis:

Spicy. It spreads over the entire surface of the organ or in a separate part of it. May be purulent or non-purulent. A rare disease that develops against the background severe infections or diffuse goiter. With a purulent form, among the symptoms are present: temperature (up to 40 ° C), chills, pain in the anterior region of the neck, radiating to the tongue and ears, aggravated by movement. Observed headache, aches, heart palpitations. An abscess forms on the gland itself, it is soft to the touch (in the presence of pus). The non-purulent form is less pronounced.
Subacute. Most common in women. Symptoms: fever, pain in the front of the neck, radiating to the ears and occipital part head, general malaise, sweating, tremor, increased heart rate, aches. On palpation, one of the sides of the gland is enlarged. This form is called sharp rise thyroid hormones.
Chronic. Initially, it proceeds without symptoms with a progressive change in the tissue of the gland. Then there is a feeling of a coma in the throat, difficulty swallowing. At the same time, the gland increases unevenly, its functions decrease. Subsequently, the pressure on the neck becomes stronger, which can provoke headaches, shortness of breath and loss of vision.

Advice. Thyroiditis can go on for a long time without symptoms, causing more and more damage to the body, so it is recommended to take tests for hormones once or twice a year.

Autoimmune thyroiditis is the most common form of the disease and is chronic. It also has several forms:

Latent. Enlargement of the gland with the continuation of its normal functioning.
Hypertrophic. Full or uneven increase in the body, the formation of nodes, a decrease in its performance.
Atrophic. The gland is normal or reduced, underproduction hormones.

To diagnose the form of thyroiditis, an examination for hormones, ultrasound, CT or MRI is performed. Treatment is the administration of drugs aimed at restoring or maintaining hormonal levels.

Conclusion

The thyroid gland regulates many body processes, so it is necessary to regularly check for the presence of possible changes in his work. Some diseases can affect the reproductive function, so women should begin treatment of the thyroid gland in a timely manner.

The thyroid gland is a small organ located in the front of the neck. Its size does not exceed four centimeters, and in shape it resembles a butterfly. Despite its small size, the thyroid gland has a lot of functions. And if something happens to her, a person will certainly feel it.

What are the functions of the thyroid gland in the human body?

This is an endocrine organ, respectively, it is responsible for the production of hormones. And without the latter, as you know, the body cannot work normally:

The main function of the thyroid gland is the production of two hormones - thyroxine and triiodothyronine. They are also known as T3 and T4. These substances are responsible for controlling metabolic processes. They also take part in the work of the cardiovascular, mental, reproductive systems, organs of the gastrointestinal tract.
Another function of the thyroid gland in the body is weight control. The more food a person eats, the more active the thyroid gland works and vice versa.
Thyroid hormones are involved in the processes of mental and physical development person. It is very important that they are present in enough in a woman's body during pregnancy.
The thyroid gland also produces calcitonin. This substance regulates the amount of calcium. And this element is necessary for bones and is involved in the conduction of impulses through nerve and muscle tissues.
Thyroid hormones are also responsible for the regulation of water-salt balance.
The organ also takes part in the production of vitamin A in the liver.

Symptoms of thyroid disorders

The thyroid gland may not work properly due to a lack or excess of iodine. This element is used by the body to produce hormones. It is possible to understand that there is an increased or decreased function of the thyroid gland when symptoms such as appear.

It belongs to the category of organs that have a significant impact on the state of the whole organism. Therefore, any disease is fraught with serious consequences, and in the case of neglect of treatment, even disability or a more fatal outcome. Given this fact, it is worth exploring possible functional disorders work of the thyroid gland.

What is the thyroid gland

This important organ is an endocrine gland. Its main function can be defined as the production of hormones that make it possible to maintain a stable homeostasis process. Without this, the full-fledged work of the whole organism as a whole is not possible.

The thyroid gland is located in the region of the anterior, limited from above by the base mandible, from below - by the jugular notch of the sternum, and on the sides - by the front edges of the right and left sternocleidomastoid muscles. As a person grows older, the location of this organ may change somewhat. For example, if in children the iron is fixed at the level of the thyroid cartilage, then in older people it is lowered significantly lower (it is in this position that this organ forms the so-called sternal goiter).

Parameters and composition

The thyroid gland is an organ that consists of two lobes and an isthmus. The isthmus itself is located on the anterior surface of the trachea. But the shares are adjacent to it from the left and right side. In some cases, it is also possible to have an additional lobe that has a pyramidal shape.

It is worth noting that the thyroid gland is the largest element of the endocrine system. At the same time, her right lobe more than the left and is characterized by abundant vascularization. If we talk about the mass of the thyroid gland, then it is usually in the range from 20 to 60 grams. Moreover, this indicator increases during puberty and decreases with the onset of old age.

Interesting is the fact that it is smaller than in men, although during pregnancy it becomes larger. Also for this organ, which is one of the most blood-supplying, the presence of an external and internal connecting capsule is characteristic. It is the outer capsule that performs a key function in the formation ligamentous apparatus necessary for fixing the gland on the trachea and larynx.

Blood supply process

The thyroid gland is an organ that needs a significant amount of blood to function properly. It is for this reason that it has an extensive venous and developed arterial system. If we compare the intensity of blood flow various parts body, then in the thyroid gland it will be 50 times stronger than in muscle fibers. This indicator can significantly increase in the event of diseases that are accompanied by increased excretion hormones.

The blood supply to the thyroid gland is carried out through two upper and lower thyroid arteries, which form anastomoses between themselves. The outflow of blood and lymph occurs due to the active work of the venous and lymphatic systems. In the event of pathological conditions, thyroid-stimulating and thyroblocking immunoglobulins, as well as antithyroid antibodies, are excreted from the thyroid gland.

The innervation of the thyroid gland becomes possible thanks to the branches and branches of the cervical ganglia.

Hormone Functions

It is worth recalling that the thyroid gland is an element of the endocrine system. So, it makes sense to talk about the production of hormones. This organ secretes three types of substances: calcitonin (a peptide hormone) and two iodine-containing elements - thyroxine and triiodothyronine. The apical part of the thyroid epithelium, as well as the intrafollicular space (has a partial effect), helps to synthesize the latter. The production of calcitonin occurs due to the thymus and parathyroid gland, with the active assistance of C-cells. Without it, the regulation of potassium and phosphorus metabolism in the human body would not have been possible.

In fact, it is a substance that is characterized by biological activity. In the process of this activity, it has a remote effect on various cells of the body.

Thyroid hormones, for example, are necessary for the successful synthesis of proteins in organs and tissues. And thyroglobulin serves as a reserve for them. But the main objective thyroid hormones is the provision chemical reactions, which play a key role in the process of generating energy that the body needs for full functioning, even at rest.

Thyroid hormone is an element without which it becomes impossible right job heart, intestinal peristalsis and stable maintenance of the desired body temperature.

Thyroid disorders

Hormones have a significant effect on the entire body, supporting the basic metabolism for right level. Therefore, in the case of their excess, this exchange is accelerated, and in case of a deficit, it slows down.

All possible pathologies The thyroid gland can be divided into several main types:

Diseases accompanied by a decrease in hormone levels - hypothyroidism;

Pathologies in which the synthesis of hormones increases (thyrotoxicosis);

Diseases that occur without change in functional activity glands, but stimulate morphological changes its structures (hyperplasia, goiter, formation of nodes, etc.).

One of the main reasons leading to the occurrence of pathological conditions is the lack of iodine in the body. Therefore, it is always important to monitor nutrition, since there are foods that enrich the cells with this useful element, as well as prevent its penetration into the tissues of the thyroid gland.

Common diseases

Perhaps it is worth starting with such a diagnosis as a thyroid nodule. This disease has made life difficult for many people. In fact, a thyroid nodule is a small part of its tissue that is surrounded by a capsule. A similar change is caused by a lack of iodine, as a result of which the gland begins to work more intensively, absorbing this element from the blood. The emerging goiter dilates the blood vessels, while compacting the tissues. The result of this process is the formation of a node. Focal changes in the thyroid gland is another name for this pathology.

Doctors are increasingly faced with the appearance of several seals at the same time, the danger of which is that they can develop from benign to malignant. If such changes nevertheless occurred, it is necessary to perform an operation. A benign node does not require surgical intervention and is treated by enriching the body with iodine.

Thyroid vascularization is another problem that is closely related to nodule formation. Its essence boils down to the fact that in addition to four arteries, new ones are formed in the gland. blood vessels, the appearance of which is caused by seals (nodes). The fact that vascularization is increased can be recognized by the following symptoms:

Painful muscle sensations;

Frequent appearance of a sensation of goiter;

Changes in blood pressure;

Rapid weight change;

sweating;

The formation of edema;

Hormonal disorders;

Increased drowsiness and fatigue.

In addition to these manifestations of increased blood flow in the thyroid gland, attention and memory may also decrease, and sometimes even sexual function. For the treatment of such a pathology, it is necessary to consult an endocrinologist.

Functions not working properly

Both the integrity of the immune system itself and the functioning of the body as a whole depend on the normal functioning of the thyroid gland. Therefore, any failure is fraught with tangible consequences.

An underactive thyroid gland is a weakening of the functioning of this organ. This problem has another name - hypofunction. There are several reasons why functional activity may decrease:

Diseases caused by inflammation of the gland or its injury;

congenital anomalies;

Lack of iodine in the body;

Extremely unfavorable environmental factors that led to damage to the thyroid gland.

As for secondary hypofunction, in this case it is worth paying attention to the defeat of the pituitary gland, which regulates the functioning of the gland.

Hypothyroidism is another problem that should not be ignored. The bottom line is that the full-fledged work of all body systems and their ability to cope with constant stress depends on the rate of hormone production. If the functions of the thyroid gland slow down, then this will give rise to chain reaction, which will greatly aggravate general state person. And if before that there were other health problems, then it will become much more difficult to overcome them.

The most common treatment for this diagnosis is hormone replacement therapy. Sometimes, in order to return the functionality of the gland to normal, it is enough to take thyroid hormones for several months.

Another problem that deserves attention is the hyperfunction of the thyroid gland. This is a syndrome that develops due to an increase in the production of hormones such as triiodothyronine and thyroxine.

This disease can be divided into three types: primary, secondary and tertiary hyperthyroidism. In most cases, the background for the development of such a problem is. It is this type of compaction of gland tissues that can be attributed to a factor that provokes excessive production of hormones.

Hyperfunction of the thyroid gland is a disease that can develop due to subacute thyroiditis, a viral infection of the gland, nodular goiter or toxic adenoma. The consequences of such an unpleasant diagnosis are severe nervousness, memory impairment, ophthalmopathy (bulging eyes), accompanied by an increase in the thyroid gland, insomnia and poisoning of the body with excess hormones.

In general, there is an excessive tension of all systems and organs, leading to irreversible changes. As a result, a person can become disabled and even die. Hyperthyroidism is treated with hormone-reducing drugs, surgery, and radioactive iodine.

Other common pathologies

Often, ordinary people have to deal with such a serious diagnosis as thyroid hyperplasia. This is nothing more than an increase in the functional cells of this organ. As a result, the size of the thyroid gland increases markedly. This is the so-called goiter known to many.

The cause of this disease can be both excessive and insufficient production of hormones. But in general, such a syndrome can develop on the basis of absolutely various diseases. And depending on the cause, the treatment strategy also changes. The proliferation of functional cells itself has several types:

Nodular (an increase in the size of the gland due to the appearance of cysts and nodes);

Diffuse (uniform increase without the formation of seals);

Mixed.

It is possible to determine the fact that the syndrome of enlarged thyroid cells is developing by such signs as rapid change weight, the appearance of swelling in the neck, excessive constant excitability, restless sleep and nervousness. These symptoms will help you recognize the onset of hyperplasia and quickly take appropriate action.

Another pathology that endocrinologists often have to treat is thyroid hypoplasia. This is a congenital malformation, which manifests itself in the insufficient development of the tissue of this organ. The reason why people have to deal with such a diagnosis is the lack of iodine in a woman's body during pregnancy. Various defects can also play a negative role. prenatal development with a decrease in thyroid function during the period of bearing a child. This disease can be detected already in childhood, as it is the cause of the development of hypothyroidism and cretinism.

The key method to overcome hypoplasia is the use of thyroid hormones. Moreover, treatment should not be delayed. You will also have to provide the child with massage sessions and classes. therapeutic gymnastics. This is important because, in most cases, children with a similar disease a disorder develops muscle tone and movements.

It is not uncommon for patients to come to endocrinologists with such a problem as a heterogeneous thyroid gland. What is it, the terminology will best explain ultrasound therapy, according to which similar problem called diffuse change. It's about about a change in the tissues of the thyroid gland, in which the entire organ reflects sound incorrectly.

There may be several reasons for the occurrence of such a change, the main one is a constant lack of iodine in the body. The unevenness of the tissues of the thyroid gland also develops on the soil the following diseases: endemic goiter, chronic autoimmune thyroiditis, diffuse toxic and mixed goiter. As a rule, tissue inflammation occurs due to pathological aggression of the body's immune system.

Speaking about treatment, it is worth noting that any improvisation is fraught with negative consequences Therefore, you must first visit a qualified doctor. In most cases, specialists prescribe products containing iodine or potassium iodide to patients. But in case of detection of thyroid dysfunction, a synthetic analogue of thyroid hormone is prescribed. In the event that growing tissues begin to put pressure on neighboring organs, you should seriously think about surgical intervention.

It is also important to know about such a problem as increased echogenicity of the thyroid gland. What this is, can only be understood if ultrasound is used. The bottom line is that this term is used only to describe the picture. ultrasound. This word characterizes the ability of a fabric to reflect a high-frequency sound directed at it.

The very fact of a change in the ultrasound picture indicates the appearance of any pathology. In any case, the ultrasound technique helps to more accurately diagnose a violation in the state or functions of the thyroid gland.

Autoimmune thyroiditis

This issue deserves special attention. It is important to understand, faced with such a diagnosis as "thyroid gland AIT", that this is enough serious illness requiring a thorough approach to the treatment process. The essence of this problem comes down to what happens in the body chronic inflammation tissues of autoimmune origin. The reason for this condition is negative impact the body's immune system to thyroid cells.

It should be noted that such a diagnosis accounts for up to 30% of all diseases associated with the gland. Wherein this problem occurs in women 15-20 times more often than in men. At risk are people aged 40 to 50 years.

Autoimmune thyroiditis can be divided into several types:

- Painless. It develops with a significant decrease in immunity and is thus idiopathic in nature.

-Cytokine-induced. This form of the disease manifests itself after the use of interferon, which is used to treat diseases of the liver and blood.

- Chronic. The reason for the development of this type of thyroiditis is an increase in the number of antibodies and T-lymphocytes in the tissues of the gland.

- Postpartum. The disease develops due to pregnancy.

Of course, understanding the question "thyroid gland AIT - what is it?", It is worth paying attention to treatment. Having heard such a diagnosis, first of all you need to go to the doctor. In most cases, after the diagnosis, patients are prescribed hormone replacement therapy. Prescribed medications should be taken every day constant increase doses.

If the disease is in an advanced stage, and the goiter has reached a significant size, then you will have to turn to the help of surgeons, since it is unlikely that it will be possible to achieve tangible progress in treatment without surgical intervention.

It is important not to resort to the use of antibiotics during the manifestation of inflammation. This will not help to neutralize the effect of the virus, and the pathology will continue to progress. Emphasis should be placed on competent and timely therapy under the guidance of a specialist. It is this approach that can give the desired result.

The Importance of Prevention

Based on the above information, we can conclude that the thyroid gland affected by any disease is dangerous. Therefore, with any suspicious symptoms, it is necessary to go for an examination and, if detected, pathological condition body to begin treatment without delay. In order to minimize the risk of thyroid disease, you need to follow a few simple rules: enrich your diet with foods with high content iodine, constantly sanitize the oral cavity (often through the teeth affected by caries, the infection penetrates the gland) and thoroughly treat any colds.

With competent and thorough prevention, many of the difficulties associated with thyroid diseases can be avoided.