Thyroid Symptoms: 10 Signs of a Possible Thyroid Problem

The thyroid is the largest endocrine gland that plays a key role in keeping your body functioning normally. This butterfly-shaped gland produces hormones that help regulate metabolism, energy levels, heart rate, body temperature and several other processes. The thyroid gland produces two biologically active thyroid hormones, tetraiodothyronine (thyroxine or T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). The synthesis of these hormones depends upon the supply of iodine from the diet.

When the thyroid produces too little or too much hormone, it can affect different parts of the body. Knowing the possible signs of a thyroid problem can help you recognise when it may be worth speaking with a doctor and getting tested. Before looking at the symptoms, let us understand some of the common thyroid conditions.

What are the most common thyroid diseases?

Some of the thyroid conditions commonly seen include:

• Hypothyroidism: This condition occurs when the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones. It can slow down several processes in the body.
• Hyperthyroidism: In this condition, the thyroid produces more thyroid hormones than the body needs, causing many functions to speed up.
• Goitre: A goitre is an enlarged thyroid gland. It occurs for several reasons, including iodine deficiency.
• Hashimoto's thyroiditis: This is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid. Over time it can cause hypothyroidism.
• Thyroid cancer: Thyroid cancer develops when abnormal cells in the thyroid grow uncontrollably. A lump or swelling in the neck can sometimes be an early sign, although many thyroid nodules are not cancerous.

10 thyroid symptoms you should know about

Thyroid problems can affect people differently. Here are some symptoms that may occur with an underactive or overactive thyroid.

1. Constipation: Persistent constipation can sometimes be associated with hypothyroidism. When thyroid hormone levels are low, several body processes slow down, including digestion. If constipation continues despite changes in diet, fluid intake or activity, it is worth discussing it with a healthcare professional.

2. Changes in mood: An underactive or overactive thyroid can change your mood unexpectedly. People with hypothyroidism may experience low mood, tiredness or difficulty concentrating, while hyperthyroidism can sometimes be associated with anxiety, irritability or restlessness. These symptoms can have many other causes, so they should not automatically be attributed to a thyroid problem.

3. Feeling unusually cold or hot: An underactive thyroid can make a person more sensitive to cold, while an overactive thyroid may cause increased sensitivity to heat and excessive sweating. These changes happen because thyroid hormones are closely involved in regulating the body's energy use and temperature.

4. Changes in blood pressure: Thyroid disorders can sometimes affect the cardiovascular system and blood pressure. Hypothyroidism may be associated with changes in cholesterol levels and, in some people, higher blood pressure. Hyperthyroidism can also affect heart rate and blood pressure. If your blood pressure remains high, discuss it with your doctor rather than assuming thyroid disease is the cause.

5. Neck swelling or throat discomfort: Changes around the neck can sometimes point towards a thyroid problem. A sudden lump in your throat, a change in your voice, or goiter could be of symptom of a thyroid disorder. If you experience any of these, start by looking in the mirror and checking your throat for any changes.

6. Changes in appetite or taste: Have you noticed that your appetite or weight has changed without any major change in your routine? An overactive thyroid can increase appetite and may cause unexplained weight loss.

7. Dry skin and hair loss: Changes in the skin and hair can occur with thyroid disorders. Hypothyroidism may cause dry or rough skin, while some people may experience thinning hair or increased hair shedding. Hair loss can have several causes, including nutritional deficiencies, hormonal changes, stress and other medical conditions. If the shedding persists, speak with a healthcare professional to identify the underlying cause.

8. Changes in the menstrual cycle or sexual function: Thyroid hormone changes can affect reproductive health. Women with thyroid disorders may notice periods becoming heavier, lighter, more frequent or less regular than usual. Some may also experience difficulties with fertility. Thyroid problems can affect sexual function as well. Reduced libido or difficulties with sexual performance can occur, although these symptoms may have several other causes.

9. Muscle Aches or Weakness: Muscle aches, cramps, stiffness or weakness can sometimes occur with thyroid disorders, particularly hypothyroidism. Some people may also experience tingling or numbness. If muscle symptoms are persistent, severe or accompanied by other unusual symptoms, consult a healthcare professional instead of assuming the thyroid is responsible.

10. Changes in heart rate: Changes in heart rate can be one of the noticeable effects of thyroid problems. An overactive thyroid can make the heart beat faster or more forcefully. Some people may experience heart palpitations, where the heartbeat feels unusually strong, rapid or irregular. In some cases, hyperthyroidism can also contribute to an abnormal heart rhythm such as atrial fibrillation, where the upper chambers of the heart beat irregularly. A persistent or unexplained change in heart rate should be medically evaluated.

When to seek medical attention?

Having one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that you have a thyroid disorder. Many of them can occur because of other health conditions, medications, lifestyle factors or temporary changes in the body.

However, if you notice persistent or unexplained symptoms such as changes in weight, fatigue, hair loss, constipation, unusual sensitivity to heat or cold, menstrual changes or an abnormal heart rate, speak with your doctor.

Based on your symptoms and medical history, your doctor may recommend thyroid function tests to check your hormone levels.

FAQs

1. What foods should I avoid if I have a thyroid problem?

There is no single list of foods that everyone with a thyroid disorder needs to completely avoid. A balanced diet is generally recommended.

2. Can thyroid problems be improved naturally?

It is a chronic health disorder and cannot be cured permanently. However, you can manage thyroid health by following a healthy and balanced diet.

3. What are the common symptoms of thyroid problems?

Common symptoms include unexplained weight changes, tiredness, mood changes, irregular periods, and changes in heart rate. The symptoms may vary depending on whether the thyroid is underactive or overactive.

4. When should I get tested for thyroid problems?

Consider speaking with a doctor if you have persistent or unexplained symptoms that could be related to thyroid function, such as fatigue, significant weight changes, hair loss, constipation, heat or cold intolerance, menstrual changes or an unusual heart rate.

Sources:

https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/endocrine-diseases/hypothyroidism

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/disorders-of-the-thyroid

https://www.btf-thyroid.org/what-is-thyroid-disorder