Free T4 (thyroxine)
Understanding Thyroid Function and Thyroid Testing What Does the Thyroid Do? The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped organ located at the base of your neck, just below the Adam’s apple. Despite its size, it plays a crucial role in your health by producing hormones that regulate your body’s metabolism —the process of converting food into energy. By using iodine from your diet, the thyroid produces thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) . These hormones influence how fast your body burns calories, your heart rate , blood pressure , and even your body temperature . Low thyroid hormone levels slow down body functions, leading to hypothyroidism . Excess thyroid hormones speed them up, causing hyperthyroidism . Maintaining the right balance of these hormones is essential for overall well-being. Thyroid Hormones: T3 and T4 T4 (Thyroxine): The primary hormone secreted by the thyroid. Although more abundant, it is less active. ...