The thyroid is a vital endocrine gland. It plays a major role in the metabolism, growth and maturation of the body and helps regulate many bodily functions. To do this, it constantly releases a certain amount of thyroid hormones into the blood.

An overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can be associated with weight loss, palpitations, nervousness, hair loss or menstrual disorders. On the one hand, an overactive thyroid gland in “Basedow’s disease” is caused by antibodies that are directed against the thyroid gland. So-called “hot” nodes (autonomous adenomas) and other causes can also trigger hyperfunction.

A  underactive thyroid  (hypothyroidism) often manifests itself with weight gain, sensitivity to cold, reduced performance, depression, constipation. A common cause of hypofunction is an immune response directed against the thyroid gland, for example in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. In addition, the thyroid function is of particular importance when trying to have children and during pregnancy.