Endocrinologist in Mainz provides information about the thyroid

The thyroid gland plays a very important role in our body’s metabolism. It is an endocrine gland and is ‘typical’ of all vertebrates. In mammals, it is located in the neck. It lies below the larynx in front of the windpipe. In humans, it has the shape of a butterfly. The butterfly-shaped organ stores iodine and produces the iodine-containing thyroid hormones triiodothyronine, thyroxine and the peptide hormone calcitonin.

The thyroid gland produces hormones that influence numerous functions in our body

‘The thyroid gland produces numerous hormones that influence various functions in our body. You could also say that thyroid hormones are involved in many hormonal control circuits,’ says Prof Dr Christian Wüster, a practising endocrinologist in Mainz/Rhine-Main. Malfunctions of the thyroid gland can therefore have far-reaching consequences. Overactive (hyperthyroidism) and underactive (hypothyroidism) thyroid glands are particularly well known.

Endocrinologist Prof Dr Christian Wüster in Mainz/Rhine-Main on hyperthyroidism

If hyperthyroidism occurs, the thyroid gland produces too many hormones. The excess hormones produced by the thyroid gland have a direct effect on the metabolism.

Nervousness, inner restlessness and imbalance, menstrual disorders, infertility and weight loss can be the result. ‘Hyperthyroidism can have very different causes. One possibility is growths in the thyroid gland itself. These growths can be benign or malignant. A metabolic disorder can also be the cause of thyroid dysfunction. In this case, a disorder of the pituitary gland, also known as the hypophysis, comes into consideration. Another possible cause is autoimmune hyperstimulation of the thyroid gland, known as Graves‘ disease,’ says Prof Dr Christian Wüster.

Endocrinologist Prof Dr Christian Wüster in Mainz/Rhine-Main on hypothyroidism

If the thyroid gland produces too few hormones, this is referred to as hypothyroidism. ‘Hypothyroidism also has direct effects on the body. Here too – fatigue, cycle disorders, circulatory disorders and obesity,’ says Prof Dr Christian Wüster. An underactive thyroid can be triggered by treatment for an overactive thyroid or by inflammation of the thyroid gland. Medication can also cause the metabolic disorder.

Note: This article only contains general information and must not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Under no circumstances can this article replace a visit to the doctor.

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