Why are thyroid hormones so important?
Thyroid hormone is important for many organs of the body. It is crucial for brain development in the those less than 2 years of age. Untreated thyroid hormone deficiency in this age group leads to irreversible cognitive delays. In addition, thyroid hormone is involved in the body’s metabolism from heart rate, the pace of food is processed and absorbed, body temperature, and impacts how the liver functions. It can also impact muscle function and in childhood lead to delays in achieving gross motor milestones such as walking. Lack of thyroid hormone can also delay puberty, cause menstrual irregularities, and lead to abnormal growth.