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Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid.
Pronounced - HY-poh-THY-ROY-dih-zum.
When not enough * thyroid hormone is made, it is called underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism. Symptoms include weight gain, constipation, dry skin, and sensitivity to the cold.
Glossary For This Page
* Thyroid Hormone
Pronounced - THY-royd HOR-mone
Thyroid hormone is made by the * thyroid gland. Thyroid hormone affects heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and weight. Thyroid hormone can also be made in the laboratory.
* Thyroid Gland
Pronounced - THY-royd gland
The thyroid gland is a butterfly shaped organ that helps regulate growth and metabolism. The thyroid gland lies across the base of the neck beneath the voice box (larynx) and produces thyroid hormone and * calcitonin.
* Calcitonin
Pronounced - KAL-sih-TOH-nin
A hormone formed by the * C cells of the thyroid gland. It helps maintain a healthy level of calcium in the blood. When the calcium level is too high, calcitonin lowers it.
* C cell
A type of cell in the thyroid. C cells make calcitonin, a hormone that helps control the calcium level in the blood.
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