Thyroid Health: An Educational Overview About Awareness & Self‑Care

The thyroid is a small, butterfly‑shaped gland located in the front of the neck. Even though it’s tiny, it plays a big role in how our bodies use energy, how fast our hearts beat, and how warm or cold we feel. The thyroid is part of the endocrine system, which helps keep the body balanced and functioning smoothly. Knowing about it is simply a way to better understand our health — not a reason to worry or feel alarmed. 

Why It Matters 

The thyroid makes two important hormones, often called T3 and T4. These travel through the bloodstream and help manage: 

• Metabolism (how our body uses energy) 

• Breathing and heart rate 

• Body temperature 

• Weight changes 

• Cholesterol levels 

• Menstrual cycles in women 

  
  

Another gland in the brain, the pituitary, helps guide the thyroid and tells it when to make more or less hormone. When both glands work together, they help keep the body running smoothly.

Common Thyroid Conditions 

Here are a few conditions people might hear about. Remember — these are manageable with medical help, and knowing the signs can help us stay on top of our wellness. 

Hypothyroidism (Low Thyroid Hormone) 

• The thyroid doesn’t make enough hormone. 

• This may cause tiredness, weight gain, or feeling cold more often. 

• Often related to the immune system. 

Hyperthyroidism (High Thyroid Hormone) 

• The thyroid makes more hormone than the body needs. 

• This may cause weight loss, a fast heartbeat, or feeling anxious or shaky. 

Goiter (Thyroid Swelling) 

• The thyroid grows larger than normal. 

• Sometimes it creates a visible bump in the neck or causes a change in voice. 

  
  

Being Aware, Not Afraid 

Many people experience thyroid issues at some point in life, especially women. That doesn’t mean something is wrong with you — it simply means the thyroid can sometimes slow down, speed up, or change in size like any other part of the body. The goal of learning about this is not to scare anyone, but to help us recognize signs so we can take care of ourselves early. This is Part 1 of the Thyroid series so be on the look out for more.

 If you have any questions or concerns regarding the blog or any other information, please call Jemez Public Health @ 575-834-7207. Thank you for joining us on this journey towards better health.