THYROID INSUFFICIENCY Meaning and
Definition
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Thyroid insufficiency, also known as hypothyroidism, is a medical condition characterized by an inadequate production or decreased activity of the thyroid hormone in the body. The thyroid, a butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck, plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, growth, and development. When the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones, it leads to an imbalance in the body's chemical reactions, resulting in several symptoms and complications.
The most common cause of thyroid insufficiency is an autoimmune disorder known as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland. Other causes can include iodine deficiency, certain medications, radiation therapy, or damage to the thyroid gland.
Symptoms of thyroid insufficiency can vary widely and may include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, dry skin, muscle weakness, and depression. If left untreated, it can lead to more severe complications such as goiter (enlargement of the thyroid gland), heart problems, infertility, and even mental health disorders.
Diagnosis of thyroid insufficiency usually involves a blood test to measure the levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroid hormones (T3 and T4). Treatment typically involves taking synthetic thyroid hormones in the form of medication, which helps to restore hormone balance in the body. Regular monitoring and adjustments to the medication may be necessary to ensure optimal thyroid function and manage symptoms effectively.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for THYROID INSUFFICIENCY
- rhyroid insufficiency
- fhyroid insufficiency
- ghyroid insufficiency
- yhyroid insufficiency
- 6hyroid insufficiency
- 5hyroid insufficiency
- tgyroid insufficiency
- tbyroid insufficiency
- tnyroid insufficiency
- tjyroid insufficiency
- tuyroid insufficiency
- tyyroid insufficiency
- thtroid insufficiency
- thgroid insufficiency
- thhroid insufficiency
- thuroid insufficiency
- th7roid insufficiency
- th6roid insufficiency
- thyeoid insufficiency
- thydoid insufficiency
Etymology of THYROID INSUFFICIENCY
The word "thyroid" derives from the Greek word "thyreoeidḗs", meaning "shield-shaped", which refers to the shape of the thyroid gland in the neck. "Insufficiency" comes from the Latin word "insufficientia", meaning "inadequacy" or "lack". Therefore, "thyroid insufficiency" refers to a condition where the thyroid gland is not producing an adequate amount of thyroid hormones.
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