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Where is the Thyroid Located?
The thyroid is an important organ in the body and learning where it is located is essential if you experience any of its associated symptoms. This article outlines where you can find the thyroid, its size, and its function in the body.
What is the Thyroid?
The Thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland that is located below the Adam’s apple in the front of the neck. It secretes hormones that play a role in regulating many of your body’s processes, including metabolism and growth.
Where is the Thyroid Located?
The thyroid is located in the front of the neck below the Adam’s apple. It is surrounded by cartilage and is covered by the sternocleidomastoid muscle, a muscle that runs from the front of the neck up to the ear. It is made up of two lobes that lie on either side of the windpipe (trachea) and is connected by a thin piece of tissue.
What is the Size of the Thyroid Gland?
The thyroid gland is normally the size of an almond, and it can become enlarged in cases of thyroid disease. It is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand.
What are the Functions of the Thyroid?
The thyroid produces three hormones:
- Thyroxine (T4): thyroxine helps regulate your body’s metabolism, heart rate, and temperature.
- Triiodothyronine (T3): triiodothyronine helps regulate several metabolic processes, including protein and fat metabolism.
- Calcitonin: calcitonin helps regulate the amount of calcium in the blood.
The thyroid plays an important role in regulating your body’s metabolism, weight, and energy levels. Imbalances in the thyroid can lead to conditions such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, which can cause a wide range of symptoms including fatigue, weight gain or loss, and changes in appetite.
Conclusion
The thyroid is a small gland located in the front of the neck. It is comprised of two lobes and secretes hormones that help regulate important body functions. If you experience any symptoms of an imbalance in the thyroid, it is important to speak with your doctor.
Keywords
thyroid, thyroid location, thyroid size, thyroid hormones, thyroid gland, thyroid function, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism
