Besides fertility problems, unexplained weight loss or gain, a drop in energy and constant tiredness are some common symptoms that signal a thyroid problem.

What is Thyroid?
The thyroid is the butterfly shaped gland at the base of your neck just below the Adam's apple. It stores and produces hormones Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3), which together are known as the Thyroid Hormone (TH).

Among other things the TH helps the tissue growth and repair system, development of the nervous system and development of the reproductive system. It also helps regulate blood pressure.

Thyroid-related Conditions
The two conditions under which the thyroid gland malfunctions are;

• When it releases too much of the TH. This condition is called Hyperthyroidism.
• When it releases too little of the TH. This condition is called Hypothyroidism.

Causes of Thyroid Conditions
Thyroid is most commonly triggered when:

• You have just given birth.
• You are a heavy smoker.
• You are near menopause or menopausal.
• You have been diagnosed with chronic fatigue or have been exposed to radiation.

Regular use of salt with less iodine could also lead to thyroid.

There are specific blood tests called the 'Serum T3', 'Serum T4' and 'Serum TSH level' to test for any abnormalities in the functioning of the thyroid.