01/10/2026
Thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that produces hormones controlling metabolism, energy, heart rate, body temperature, digestion, and many other functions.
Main thyroid problems
1. Hypothyroidism — underactive thyroid
The thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones.
Common symptoms:
* Unexplained weight gain
* Tiredness or excessive sleepiness
* Feeling cold easily
* Constipation
* Dry skin / hair fall
* Low mood
* Slow heart rate
* Difficulty concentrating
* Irregular or heavy periods in women
2. Hyperthyroidism — overactive thyroid
The thyroid produces too much hormone.
Common symptoms:
* Unexplained weight loss
* Fast or irregular heartbeat
* Excessive sweating
* Feeling unusually hot
* Anxiety or irritability
* Shaking hands
* Frequent bowel movements
* Difficulty sleeping
* Muscle weakness
3. Goiter or thyroid nodules
The thyroid can become enlarged or develop lumps. Many nodules are benign, but some require evaluation.
How is thyroid checked?
The usual first blood test is TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone). Depending on the result and symptoms, a doctor may order:
* Free T4
* Free T3
* Anti-TPO antibodies — often used when autoimmune thyroid disease is suspected
* Thyroid ultrasound — particularly when there is a lump, enlargement, or abnormal examination
A thyroid problem cannot be diagnosed from symptoms alone, because many symptoms overlap with other conditions.
If you tell me whether you’re asking about thyroid symptoms, thyroid test reports, diet, weight gain/loss, or thyroid in men/women, I can explain that specifically.
