kilpnärrmehormoonid

Kilpnäärmehormoonid are hormones produced and secreted by the thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck. The primary hormones produced are thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). A small amount of calcitonin is also produced. These hormones play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, which is the process by which the body converts food into energy.

The production of T3 and T4 is controlled by the pituitary gland, located in the brain, which releases thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to produce and release T3 and T4. This feedback loop ensures that the body maintains appropriate levels of these hormones.

Kilpnäärmehormoonid influence a wide range of bodily functions. They affect heart rate, body temperature, growth and development, and the rate at which cells work. They are essential for normal brain development in children and for maintaining cognitive function in adults. Imbalances in kilpnäärmehormoonid can lead to various health conditions. Hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland produces too little hormone, can cause fatigue, weight gain, and feeling cold. Hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid gland produces too much hormone, can lead to weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and anxiety. Calcitonin, another hormone from the thyroid, helps regulate calcium levels in the blood, though its role is less significant than that of T3 and T4.