Knowledge
A small, butterfly-shaped organ of great significance – it governs far more than the metabolism alone.
Structure
Situated below the thyroid cartilage, about the size of a walnut in adults.
The thyroid sits at the front of the neck, below the thyroid cartilage. Its two lobes are joined by a narrow bridge – the isthmus – in front of the windpipe, recalling the shape of a butterfly. In adults it weighs only about 15 to 25 grams.
Despite its modest size, it produces vital hormones that help regulate almost every function of the body – from body temperature to the ability to concentrate.
Delicate structures lie in its immediate vicinity: the four small parathyroid glands, which govern calcium balance, and the nerve to the vocal cords.
Function
The thyroid hormones regulate numerous fundamental processes and influence practically every organ system.
Disorders of thyroid function therefore affect both physical and mental wellbeing – unnoticed at first and with non-specific signs.
Iodine & prevention
Small building blocks with a great effect on a healthy thyroid.
Iodine is the essential building block of thyroid hormones. A balanced supply through the diet supports normal function – in certain phases of life such as when planning a pregnancy, during pregnancy and while breastfeeding the need is increased.
Whether and to what extent supplementary iodine makes sense depends on your individual situation – I am happy to discuss this with you personally. With autoimmune thyroid conditions – such as Graves’ disease or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis – a measured approach is important here.
When the balance tips
The thyroid produces too many hormones. Common signs are inner restlessness, a racing heart, increased sweating and a heightened appetite – often alongside a tendency to lose weight – as well as, in women, lighter or absent periods. Common causes are Graves’ disease or autonomous nodules; certain iodine-containing medicines (such as amiodarone) can also trigger an overactive thyroid. Treatment depends on the cause.
Too few hormones are produced. Typical signs are tiredness, listlessness, sensitivity to cold, a slight weight gain, difficulty concentrating and – in women – heavier or irregular periods. A chronic inflammation is usually behind it, less often a naturally small thyroid; with well-adjusted hormone therapy the symptoms can generally be controlled well.
Nodules in thyroid tissue are very common and, in the vast majority of cases, benign – with age they are found in a large part of the population. High-resolution ultrasound assesses size, structure, margins and blood flow and assigns each nodule to a risk pattern. Some nodules require further clarification; many can instead be kept under observation over time. This is precisely why regular check-ups matter: they show early on if a nodule changes and ensure that the nodules deserving attention are identified in good time.
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the most common cause of an underactive thyroid: the body’s own immune system turns against the gland. It affects women far more often than men and develops over years – unnoticed at first, later with the signs of underactivity. The diagnosis rests primarily on blood tests and the characteristic ultrasound picture. When needed, it is treated with thyroid hormones; regular check-ups keep the setting stable.
In Graves’ disease the tissue behind the eyes can react as well – with dry, red or pressure-sensitive eyes, a more prominent gaze or, less often, double vision. Early recognition and consistent avoidance of smoking are decisive: smoking is the single most important modifiable factor for a more severe course. I assess early signs promptly; where thyroid eye disease is suspected, urgent ophthalmological treatment is indicated – I arrange immediate contact with specialist eye care.
Thyroid and pregnancy
Well supported,
from the very start.
An unrecognised thyroid disorder can affect fertility even before conception. If you are planning a pregnancy, it is therefore advisable to have your thyroid levels checked beforehand – so an existing therapy can be adjusted in good time.
During pregnancy the need for thyroid hormones rises – they support the child’s healthy development. A well-balanced thyroid naturally contributes to this, and regular check-ups make it easy to keep an eye on.
I accompany you with close check-ups through pregnancy and breastfeeding: an existing hormone therapy is monitored and adjusted where necessary, I keep an eye on adequate iodine intake, and stay attentive to the period after birth as well.
In the months after birth the thyroid can also fall temporarily out of rhythm – known as postpartum thyroiditis. It usually runs in two phases – first an overactive, then an underactive thyroid – ranging from mild to more pronounced. Many cases resolve on their own; others need treatment, whether temporarily or long term. Recognised and supported, it can be managed well.
Medically reviewed – reviewed and approved by Dr. Ingrid Schnegg-Rehwald,
Specialist in Nuclear Medicine, in accordance with current medical standards.