While the thyroid is a small gland, a Dallas County Health Department official says it plays a big role in our overall health.
Community Health Educator Natalie Del Vecchio says the thyroid produces hormones that help regulate the body’s metabolism. She adds that the gland can affect multiple systems throughout the body, including heart rate, body temperature, digestion and energy levels.
“When the thyroid works properly, we don’t really notice it at all. But if it becomes overactive or underactive, or just has some sort of complication, it can lead to symptoms that affect our everyday life, like fatigue, weight changes, feeling too hot or cold, changes in heart rate, or maybe some trouble concentrating. So essentially, thyroid health is important because it just helps keep the body system running smoothly.”…