what is the overall function of the thyroid hormone?
to increase metabolic rate
how does the thyroid hormone increase metabolic rate?
increases enzyme levels and the number of mitochondria in cells
thyroid hormone secretion is controlled primarily by the what?
thyroid stimulating hormone which is secreted by the anterior pituitary gland
what is the secretion of the thyroid stimulating hormone regulated by?
a hypothalamic releasing hormone called thyrotropin-releasing hormone
under secretion of the thyroid hormone is called
hypothyroidism: metabolic rate decreases 40-50%
symptoms include: weight gain, low body temp, slow pulse, slow reflexes, diminished alertness, fatigue
over secretion of thyroid hormone is called
hyperthyroidism: metabolic rate can increase 60-100% above norm.
symptoms: weight loss despite an increase in appetite and food intake, poor tolerance to heat, fast pulse, irritability, fatigue but unable to sleep
