The thyroid gland is located in the neck below the Adam's apple. It produces important hormones including thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) that regulate metabolism and growth. Hyperthyroidism is an overactive thyroid that causes symptoms like rapid heartbeat and weight loss. It is often caused by Graves' disease and can be diagnosed through blood tests and scans. Treatment options include anti-thyroid drugs to reduce hormone production, radioactive iodine treatment to damage the thyroid cells, or surgical removal of part or all of the gland.