## Size as a symptom An enlarged thyroid gland is not an external defect, but a sign of potential health problems. For example, this happens with an increase in hormone production ([hyperthyroidism](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarydisease?id=13)), with a decrease in hormone production ([hypothyroidism](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarydisease?id=45)), and with benign and malignant formations. The work of the thyroid gland affects the health of the whole body. Any disorders of its function lead to hormonal imbalance. Thyroid disorders affect metabolism, sleep, the work of internal organs, and the menstrual cycle. This problem is most often faced by women because throughout their lives they go through hormonal changes associated with puberty, [pregnancy](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarydisease?id=3), childbirth, and [menopause](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarydisease?id=55). In men, the health of the thyroid is affected by working at a harmful job, steroid use, or physical or emotional overload. ## Warning signs Problems with the thyroid gland will not only show up in the thyroid’s volume. There will be several other alarming symptoms that will appear. It all starts with changes in appearance: dull hair, broken nails, a deteriorating complexion, and trembling hands. Other symptoms are also indicative of problems: - Irregular menstrual cycle, difficulties with conception, pronounced premenstrual syndrome in women - Apathy, constant fatigue, and depression - Elevated [cholesterol](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=57) and blood sugar - Poor sleep - Problems with thermoregulation - Unexplained weight fluctuations - The feeling of pressure, mild dry cough, trouble swallowing, hoarseness of voice ## Getting an examination If the size of the gland is enlarged, you should not delay getting examined by your doctor. This is true even if the symptoms are not pronounced. Your doctor will most likely have you undergo a few simple tests including blood tests for hormones [TSH](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=137), [T4](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=141), and [T3](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=138) as well as an ultrasound of the thyroid. In the initial stage, an increase in the thyroid gland can be corrected by medication, with the help of drugs containing [iodine](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=12), and a special diet. If started in time, treatment can reduce the thyroid gland to its original size and avoid dangerous complications.