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3 things to know about thyroid issues

Your thyroid—a butterfly-shaped gland in your neck—makes hormones that regulate metabolism, weight, energy, body temperature and more. When it's not working right, it can cause problems like hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. Cancer also can sometimes develop in the thyroid gland. Here are a few other thyroid things to know.

3 truths about your thyroid

1. Hypothyroidism can run in families. Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid doesn't produce enough hormones. The condition can be hereditary. It also strikes more women than men. It can cause you to gain weight; have dry skin or irregular periods; or feel tired, depressed or cold.

2. A neck lump can be an early sign of thyroid cancer. Other signs may include a hoarse voice, a cough or trouble breathing.

3. Your doctor can check the health of your thyroid. Lab tests can reveal high or low hormone levels. A "neck check," or physical exam, can help detect thyroid nodules (growths). A biopsy can help determine if a nodule is cancerous.

Reviewed 9/5/2025

Sources

Endocrine Society. "Hormones and Thyroid Cancer: What You Need to Know." https://www.endocrine.org/-/media/endocrine/files/patient-engagement/hormones-and-series/hormones_and_thyroid_cancer_what_you_need_to_know.pdf.

Endocrine Society. "Thyroid and Parathyroid Hormones." https://www.endocrine.org/patient-engagement/endocrine-library/hormones-and-endocrine-function/thyroid-and-parathyroid-hormones.

Merck Manual Consumer Version. "Thyroid Cancer." https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/hormonal-and-metabolic-disorders/thyroid-gland-disorders/thyroid-cancer#Types-of-Thyroid-Cancer_v772360.