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The thyroid gland is located in the neck just below your Adam's apple. It produces essential hormones that regulate your metabolism.

The most common thyroid conditions are hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces too much hormone. The result is that the patient may experience a series of uncomfortable symptoms, such as heart fluttering and tremulousness. Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. This condition results in lower energy levels, weight gain and other symptoms. Both hypo- and hyperthyroidism are usually treated with medication, although surgery may be needed in some cases.

Thyroid nodules are abnormal lumps that form on the thyroid gland. The cause of these nodules is not known, although nodules tend to run in families. Most are so small that they are only detected using CT scans and ultrasound devices. Nodules can be benign (noncancerous) or cancerous. After detection, blood tests are run to see if the nodules are causing problems and whether they might need to be surgically removed.