The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck. It is responsible for producing thyroid hormones, which play a vital role in regulating the body’s metabolism, growth, and development. Checking your thyroid gland is important for detecting any potential problems, such as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
There are a few different ways to check your thyroid gland. One way is to feel it with your fingers. The thyroid gland is usually soft and smooth, and it should not be tender or painful. Another way to check your thyroid gland is to look for a goiter, which is a swelling of the thyroid gland. A goiter can be a sign of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.