1. is barbara’s thyroid functioning properly? if not then is she suffering from hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism? explain your answer.
2. what are some things that could cause low levels of t3 and t4?
3. what are some things that could cause low levels of tsh?
4. why does barbara feel cold?
5. why has she gained weight?

1.The answer is; her thyroid is not functioning properly as can be viewed in her serum Thyroxine and Triiodothyronine levels. Her levels of the two hormones is below the normal ranges for a healthy person as indicated in the table. This means that she has hypothyroidism – meaning her thyroid glands are underperforming.

2.T3 and T4 hormones are produced by the thyroid gland. Therefore abnormal serum levels of the two hormones mean that either the thyroid gland is malfunctioning (primary hypothyroidism) or the pituitary gland that produces Thyroid Stimulating Hormone is malfunctioning (secondary hypothyroidism).

3.One is pituitary disorder due to a medical conditions such as a tumor growth in the gland. The pituitary gland is responsible for secreting TSH that influence T3 and T4 levels in the blood. The second cause could be hyperthyroidism. The pituitary may be trying to reduce THS levels because the thyroid is producing excess T3 hormone.

4.The thyroid hormones are significant in regulating vital functions of the body from breathing, body weight, heart rate, menstrual cycle, body temperatures, and cholesterol levels. T3 and T4 are significant in regulating metabolism in the body cells. When the hormones are produced at low levels, metabolism is reduced hence the body struggles to raise body temperatures when they drop.

5.  Due to the low metabolism rates in cells (as a result of hypothyroidism) the body’s rate of burning calories and fats is reduced. Therefore, there is an accumulation of excess glucose and fats in the body that is stored in fat tissue.