Where is the thyroid gland located?

The thyroid gland is located in the neck. It is wrapped around the front of the windpipe, just below the Adam's apple. It is often described as butterfly-shaped because it is made up of two wing-like lobes and a small connective band called the isthmus.

The thyroid secretes hormones that influence growth and development and regulate metabolism and body temperature. A normal thyroid cannot be felt, and doctors often palpate the neck to check for swelling of the thyroid. An enlarged thyroid, also known as goiter, can be a sign of either an overactive or underactive thyroid gland, both of which can lead to serious health problems.