Endocrine Glands

Endocrine glands release hormones (chemical messengers) into the bloodstream to be transported to various organs and tissues throughout the body. For instance, the pancreas secretes insulin, which allows the body to regulate levels of sugar in the blood. The thyroid gets instructions from the pituitary to secrete hormones which determine the pace of chemical activity in the body (the more hormone in the bloodstream, the faster the chemical activity; the less hormone, the slower the activity).

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism or thyrotoxicosis results from excess quantities of thyroid hormone in the body. This excess of hormones may be caused by tumors of the thyroid or rarely of the pituitary or ovaries, inflammation of the thyroid, or ingestion of excessive amounts of thyroid hormone or iodine. Those with increased thyroid hormone levels experience heat intolerance, increased energy, difficulty sleeping, diarrhea and anxiety.

Brain-Thyroid Link

Although the thyroid gland releases the hormones which govern growth and metabolism, the brain (the pituitary and the hypothalamus) manages the release and the balance of the amount of hormones circulated.

Thyroid Gland

The thyroid gland , a part of the endocrine (hormone ) system, plays a major role in regulating the body's metabolism.