Connection between thyroid and hearing

The thyroid is an endocrine gland that produces the hormones that regulate the metabolism of the human body. It is located at the front of the neck, in front of the trachea and consists of two joined lobes that give it the "butterfly" shape.

Thyroid disorders can seriously affect some body functions such as energy level, heart rate, and central nervous system. In addition, the thyroid can also be affected by morphological changes. Let's see the main thyroid disorders: 

• Hyperthyroidism: this is a disorder associated with the excessive production of thyroid hormones. The most common symptoms are loss of weight, tachycardia, nervousness, insomnia, and increased sweating. 
• Hypothyroidism: in this case, the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones for the body's needs. Tiredness, slowed reflexes, reduced appetite, and weight gain are the most common symptoms. 
• Goiter: this is a protuberance on the neck that can compress adjacent organs, making it difficult even to swallow or breathe. Increased goiter volume can occur in both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Keep in mind that there are also goiters that do not affect thyroid functions.
• Thyroid nodules: their formation is usually benign, they do not alter thyroid functions and have no symptoms. However, it is always recommended to have a diagnostic evaluation to exclude the possibility of other pathologies. 
• Thyroid tumors: they can be both malignant and benign. However, with rare exceptions, they are often benign. 
• Thyroiditis: it refers to the inflammation of the thyroid gland. It can have different causes; the most common form is Hashimoto's thyroiditis which consists of the production of antibodies against the thyroid cells themselves, as a consequence of an anomaly of the immune system.