New Delhi, July 9 -- Dr Govindarajan explained, "The thyroid works in close coordination with the brain and adrenal glands through a communication network called the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. When the brain senses stress, it signals the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. This hormone is meant to help the body respond to immediate challenges but when stress becomes long-term, cortisol levels remain elevated and start interfering with other hormone systems, including the thyroid."

A 2024 cross-sectional study conducted at the Vijayanagar Institute of Medical Sciences in Ballari, Karnataka, explored the relationship between perceived stress and thyroid function among apparently healthy women aged 20 to 49. The study found ...