The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped endocrine gland in the front of your neck that produces hormones regulating metabolism, energy, heart rate, and body temperature. What is the thyroid? ▪It's a vital endocrine gland located at the front of the neck, just below the voice box. ▪It produces thyroid hormones (primarily T3 and T4) that travel through the bloodstream to regulate many body functions. ▪These hormones affect metabolism, heart rate, weight, body temperature, digestion, and more. Common symptoms ▪Symptoms of hypothyroidism (underactive): Lethargy, fatigue, feeling cold, weight gain, hair loss, dry skin, and constipation. ▪Symptoms of hyperthyroidism (overactive): Nervousness, anxiety, increased heart rate, increased sweating, unintentional weight loss, and thinning hair. Diagnosis and treatment ▪Diagnosis: Healthcare providers use thyroid tests, including blood tests to measure TSH, T3, and T4 hormones, to check thyroid function. ▪Treatment: Thyroid diseases often require lifelong management with daily medication to balance hormone levels.