Hormones and Metabolism

Goiter (Enlarged Thyroid and Swollen Thyroid Gland)

What is a goiter? Goiter (goitre) is the term for enlargement of the thyroid gland, the butterfly-shaped gland that lies in the neck and controls the body’s metabolism. It occurs when the thyroid gland is overstimulated and there is an increase in the number of cells in the gland (hyperplasia). This may be diffuse, >> Read More ...

Thyroid Gland Location, Anatomy, Parts and Pictures

The thyroid gland is the one of the largest endocrine gland in the body lying  in the front part of the neck. It plays a central role in the body’s metabolism by secreting the thyroid hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which increases the basal metabolic rate of cells. It also secretes the hormone >> Read More ...

Thyroiditis (Painful and Painless Inflamed Thyroid Gland)

What is Thyroiditis? Thyroiditis is the term for inflammation of the thyroid gland, the bilobular gland located just below the voice box (larynx). The thyroid gland has several functions in the body but is best known for regulating the metabolism through the action of the thyroid hormones, thyroxine (T4) and >> Read More ...

Thyroid Hormones and Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone

What are the thyroid hormones? There are two major hormones secreted by the thyroid gland – thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). The thyroid gland secretes more thyroxine (T4) than triiodothyronine (T3) but most T4 is eventually converted into T3. Although T3 is secreted in significantly smaller quantities, it >> Read More ...

What is Hyperglycemia? High Blood Sugar in Diabetes & Stress

Hyperglycemia is the medical term for high blood sugar levels. Glucose, which is a simple sugar (monosaccharide), is essential for energy production and sustaining life. High blood sugar levels damages cells, affects the  water and electrolyte balance and disrupts homeostasis. Causes of Hyperglycemia Prolonged >> Read More ...

Normal Blood Glucose Contol and Range for Blood Glucose Levels

The blood glucose levels are maintained within a narrow range by two important regulating hormones – insulin and glucagon. Other factors also influence blood glucose levels but the action of these two hormones have the most profound effect. Simply, the body can raise the blood glucose levels when it falls below a >> Read More ...

Pancreatitis (Acute, Chronic) Causes and Symptoms

What is Pancreatitis? Pancreatitis is the medical term for inflammation of the pancreas. It is one of the more common pancreas problems often associated with gallstones and alcohol misuse. The pancreas is an elongated gland lies in the upper abdomen and influences digestion, absorption, metabolism and storage of nutrients. >> Read More ...

Pancreas Functions and Pancreatic Enzymes

The pancreas plays multiple roles in digestion, absorption, metabolism and storage of nutrients. Its diverse functions can be broadly divided into its dual glandular activity : Exocrine – digestive enzymes secreted into the small intestine. Endocrine – hormones secreted directly into the blood stream. >> Read More ...
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