Malfunction of the Thyroid Gland

Investigating Thyroid Gland Malfunctions

Task Objective:

Explore the effects of thyroid gland malfunctions on the human body, and evaluate how both overactivity and underactivity affect different organs and systems.

Part 1: Research & Compare

Use credible sources (e.g., textbooks, health websites, class notes) to investigate the effects of:

• Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
  
  

• Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
  
  

Focus your research on the following body systems:

• Heart
  
  

• Blood vessels
  
  

• Weight
  
  

• Body temperature
  
  

Fill in the comparison table below with your findings.

Part 2: Comparison Table

Part 3: Analysis Questions

1. How does the thyroid gland influence metabolism, and how is this reflected in symptoms of its overactivity and underactivity?
   
   

2. Which effects of thyroid malfunction might be most dangerous if left untreated, and why?
   
   

3. Based on your comparison, how might a person’s lifestyle be affected by each condition? Consider daily activities, energy levels, and mood.
   
   

4. How might treatments for each condition aim to restore homeostasis in the body?