Thyroid

Great! While I am working, I noticed a bump under my chin. I was shocked! Well, went to the doctor today to get it checked out. She told me to stretch out my hand. They were trembling. (first sign) Next, she took my pulse. It was beating 120 beats per minute. Wow!(second sign). Finally,she performed a thyroid function test to determine the level of hormones in my blood and the result will be out in a few days time.

I decided to google the disease and this is what medline plus explained.

The thyroid is a gland that controls key functions of your body. Disease of the thyroid gland can affect nearly every organ in your body and harm your health. Thyroid disease is eight times more likely to occur in women than in men. In some women it occurs during or after pregnancy. In most cases, treatment of thyroid disease is safe and simple.

The thyroid gland is located at the base of your neck in front of your trachea (or windpipe). It has two sides and is shaped like a butterfly.

The thyroid gland makes, stores, and releases two hormones — T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine). Thyroid hormones control the rate at which every part of your body works. This is called your metabolism.

The thyroid gland is controlled by the pituitary gland (a gland in your brain). The pituitary gland makes thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
If there is not enough thyroid hormone in the bloodstream, the body's metabolism slows down.
This is called hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). If there is too much thyroid hormone, your metabolism speeds up. This is called hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).

Ok, I think I have hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism results when the thyroid gland is making too much thyroid hormone. This causes your metabolism to speed up.

The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is a disorder known as Graves' disease. It most often affects women between the ages of 20 and 40 years.

The more common symptoms of hyperthyroidism are:
Fatigue
Weight loss
Nervousness
Rapid heart beat
Increased sweating
Feeling hot when others don't
Changes in menstrual periods
More frequent bowel movements
Tremors

Treatment for hyperthyroidism will lower the amount of thyroid hormone and relieve your symptoms.

What a way to start the new year. Well, I hope, it would be too disatrous!