THYROID + PARATHYROID
Thyroid Gland:
Found in the neck below the voice box, it consists of two lobes connected with the isthmus. It secretes thyroxine and calcitonin primarily based on the thyroid-stimulating hormone from the pituitary gland. Thyroxine is in charge of maintaining consistent metabolism levels. Calcitonin is secreted to lower calcium levels in the blood when it is too high.
Parathyroid Gland:
The body has four parathyroid glands located on top of the thyroid glands. They secrete parathormone to manage blood calcium levels. When the bloodstream has low levels of calcium ions, it will try to increase it, after which calcitonin from the thyroid will lower it when it is too high.
Diseases and Conditions
Hyperthyroidism
Too much thyroxine leads to high levels of metabolism, causing a racing heart, unexpected weight loss, and diarrhea. One type is Graves’ Disease.
Hypothyroidism
Contrasting hyperthyroidism, the lack of thyroxine may lead to a slower heart rate, unexpected weight gain, and constipation.
Goiter
Enlargement of the thyroid due to the lack of iodine. It causes a bulge in the neck and may lead to difficulty breathing or swallowing.
Hypoparathyroidism
The lack of the parathyroid hormone causes nerves to be excited too easily, making it likely for people to experience nerve impulses and contractions of muscles.