What do thyroid hormones do?
Thyroid hormones, T3 and T4, are involved in the regulation of many metabolic processes. Thyroid hormones have a role in virtually every organ system in the body. They play an important role in metabolism of carbohydrate, protein and fat, and in the regulation of the function of the heart. The thyroid gland requires iodine to produce T3 and T4, and we can use this requirement to our advantage during treatment (see Treatment of Hyperthyroidism later in this handout). What causes the disease? Unfortunately nobody knows what causes tumours of the thyroid gland to develop. Interestingly, the disease was first named in 1979 and there is little evidence to suggest that it was around long before that date. Some suggest diet, lifestyle changes, pollution and pesticides are possible causes. Recent studies suggest that the disease could be immune mediated (caused by an overreaction of the bodys immune system), and there is also most likely a genetic component to the disease. However, these are a
