What is Thyroid? | Singapore General Hospital

Situated at the lower neck at the front of the windpipe, this butterfly-shaped organ is responsible for regulating bodily functions at the correct rate. It releases hormones, mainly thyroxine (T4) and tri-iodothyronine (T3), to manage the heart rate, bowel activity, skin, muscle, and other organs.

The production of T4 is controlled by another hormone known as thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), which is produced by the pituitary gland, a control centre in the brain.

Why do People have Thyroid Problems?

Abnormal functions or growth of gland are the main roots of problems surrounding the thyroid gland.

1. Abnormal Function

The thyroid gland may either by over or underactive, these would lead to hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, respectively.

2. Thyroid Nodules

Another condition associated with the thyroid gland are thyroid nodules. These may occur in the form of localised swelling or multiple swellings (also known as multinodular goitre) within the thyroid.

These nodules usually show up by chance during regular medical screenings or examinations for other conditions. While there is no cause for alarm, one should speak to a doctor about further assessment of the nodules to decide the next course of action.

Our introduction to the thyroid is also available in Mandarin. Download a flyer:

What is thyroid? (Chinese).pdf