1
Q
Where is the thyroid gland located?
A
- two lobes of the butterfly-shaped gland are found on either side of the trachea just below the larynx in the front of the neck
2
Q
What is the most important hormone secreted by the thyroid?
A
- thyroxin
3
Q
What are the functions of thyroxin?
A
- increases the basal metabolic rate (and subsequent production of body heat)
- promotes the normal functioning of the heart
- promotes the normal functioning of the nervous system
4
Q
What is basal metabolic rate?
A
- the amount of energy the body needs to keep functioning while at rest
5
Q
How does thyroxin increase the basal metabolic rate?
A
- by controlling the rate of cellular respiration
6
Q
How does thyroxin promote the normal functioning of the nervous system?
A
- by increasing nervous activity and sharpening alertness and reflexes
7
Q
What disorders can occur due to a malfunctioning of the thyroid gland?
A
- hyperthyroidism
- hypothyroidism
8
Q
What is hypothyroidism?
A
- producing too little thyroxin
- causing a low metabolic rate
9
Q
What does hypothyroidism lead to in adults?
A
- myxoedema
- a condition of mental and physical sluggishness
- with low blood pressure, a slow heart and respiratory rate, and low body temperature
10
Q
What does hypothyroidism lead to in children?
A
- cretinism
- condition in which a child does not grow physically, has immature sexual development and is mentally retarded
11
Q
What is hyperthyroidism?
A
- producing too much thyroxin
- causes a high metabolic rate
12
Q
What are the complications of hyperthyroidism?
A
- body temperature is high and sweating increases
- heart and respiratory rate and blood pressure increases
- muscular tremors and nervousness
- swollen thyroid gland, known as exophthalmic goitre
LS - The Endocrine System
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