Thyroid Disorders and Treatments

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts related to thyroid disorders, their symptoms, and treatments.

Thyroid Gland

Located in the middle of the neck, it produces hormones T3 and T4 & calcitonin and uses iodine in the diet to produce hormones.

Negative Feedback System

An endocrine regulation mechanism that works like the law of supply and demand, maintaining hormone balance in the body.

Hypothyroidism

A condition where TSH is HIGH due to the thyroid gland not making enough thyroid hormone.

Hyperthyroidism

A condition where TSH is LOW, indicating the thyroid is producing too much thyroid hormone.

Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

A hormone released by the anterior pituitary that stimulates the thyroid to produce T3 and T4.

Graves’ Disease

An autoimmune disorder that is a common cause of hyperthyroidism characterized by excessive secretions of thyroid hormone.

Levothyroxine

A medication used for the treatment of hypothyroidism, which increases the metabolic rate in the body's tissues.

Methimazole

A medication used to treat hyperthyroidism by inhibiting the production of thyroid hormones.

Signs of Hyperthyroidism

Increased heart rate, weight loss, heat intolerance, and bulging eyes are common symptoms.

Signs of Hypothyroidism

Weight gain, cold intolerance, extreme fatigue, and dry skin are characteristic symptoms.