HGH Human Growth Hormone and Hypothyroidism by Lisa Wells, RN

The Thyroid Gland and Thyroid Hormone

The thyroid gland is a butterfly shaped gland that is located over the trachea (wind pipe) just below the larynx (voice box). The thyroid gland plays a very important role in most all the metabolic processes of the body. The thyroid gland with its thyroid hormone is responsible for regulating metabolism.

How Thyroid Hormone is Made

The hypothalamus, often referred to as the body's "thermostat" is responsible for making sure the thyroid blood levels are normal. When the hypothalamus notices the thyroid blood levels decreasing it releases TRH (thyroid releasing hormone). The TRH then signals the pituitary gland to release TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone). TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to begin producing thyroid hormone.

When the body's levels of thyroid hormone become normal and the body is functioning normally the pituitary gland will cease its release of TSH and the process stops until the hypothalamus notices the thyroid hormone levels decreasing again.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is caused by insufficient production or absorption of thyroid hormone that causes abnormally low blood thyroid hormone levels. This problem with the thyroid gland is usually brought about as a result of iodine insufficiency, a tumor, a damaged thyroid gland, or vitamin deficiencies. This type of hypothyroidism is called "primary hypothyroidism".

Hypothyroidism can also be a result of the pituitary gland and/or hypothalamus failing to function properly. This type of hypothyroidism is called "secondary hypothyroidism".

Low thyroid hormone levels may not only make you feel old, they can propel you into the conditions and diseases associated with aging. Low levels of T4 can be responsible for weight gain, since T4 plays a role in controlling the body's metabolism. The changes that are brought about as a result of the aging process such as changes in the fat to muscle ratio and the shrinkage of organs can also be caused by a lack of thyroid hormone. A decrease in the amount of lean body mass can in turn interfere with the activity of an enzyme that converts thyroxine (T4) into triodothyronine (T3). T3 is about 5 times more potent than T4.

Adequate levels of thyroid hormone are needed to regulate blood sugar, so a deficiency of thyroid hormone can lead to mature-onset diabetes. Low levels of thyroid hormone can also greatly increase the risk of cardiovascular disease due to an increase in the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides and may cause high blood pressure. Also, iodine is essential to the proper functioning of the thyroid gland, several studies that have been done have shown a correlation between low iodine levels and an increased risk of cancer.

Hypothyroidism is a fairly common problem. About 1 in 10 women and 1 in 20 men over the age of 50 will develop some symptoms of hypothyroidism. Thyroid hormone production decreases as we age, however the usual age related decrease in thyroid hormone production is not considered true hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is diagnosed when the thyroid hormone level drops below what is considered "normal for age".

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BIO:

A registered nurse since 1983, licensed in the state of California. Offering HGH therapy along with personal consults and advice online at http://www.hgh-pro.com since 1999.

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