Health

10 Warning Signs of Thyroid Problems You Shouldn’t Ignore

10 Warning Signs of Thyroid Problems You Shouldn't Ignore

The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped organ located at the base of the neck. It produces hormones that control essential body functions such as metabolism, heart rate, and hormone production.

Unfortunately, this tiny but mighty gland can be prone to malfunctioning, which can lead to serious health issues. Awareness of common warning signs of thyroid problems is important in order to identify potential issues early and seek treatment before any long-term damage occurs.

In this article, we will discuss 10 warning signs of thyroid problems that you shouldn’t ignore.

Warning Signs of Thyroid Problems

Unexpected Weight Gain or Loss

A sudden change in weight without any significant changes in diet or exercise habits could be a sign that your thyroid isn’t functioning properly. If you find yourself either gaining or losing weight unexpectedly, it’s important to have your thyroid checked.

Fatigue

One of the most common symptoms of an underactive thyroid is fatigue that doesn’t seem to get better with rest or sleep. If you’re feeling excessively tired despite getting enough rest and exercise, it could be a sign that something isn’t right with your thyroid.

Hair Loss

Thyroid problems can cause hair loss in both men and women, especially around the eyebrows. If you notice significant thinning or bald spots on your head, it’s best to speak with a doctor about potential causes.

Muscle Weakness & Aches

An overactive or underactive thyroid can cause muscle weakness, cramps, and aches. If you’re feeling unusually weak or sore for an extended period of time, it could be a sign that something is wrong with your thyroid.

Irregular Menstrual Cycles

An imbalance in the hormones produced by the thyroid can disrupt menstrual cycles and cause irregular periods. This is especially common in women who are struggling with an underactive thyroid gland.

Difficulty Concentrating

An overactive or underactive thyroid can cause difficulty concentrating, foggy thinking, and impaired memory recall. If these issues persist despite getting enough rest each night, it may be time to talk to your doctor about a potential thyroid problem.

Changes in Appetite

If your appetite has changed significantly without any obvious cause, it could be a sign of an underlying thyroid problem. An overactive thyroid can lead to an increased appetite while an underactive one causes a decrease in appetite.

Sensitivity to Cold Temperatures

Hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) can cause sensitivity to cold temperatures and make it hard for the body to regulate its internal temperature. If you notice that you’re more sensitive to cold temperatures than usual, it may be time for a check-up with your doctor.

Dry Skin & Brittle Nails

Thyroid problems can manifest as dry and scaly skin, brittle nails, and rashes. If you notice any of these symptoms on your body, it’s important to speak with a doctor about potential causes.

Changes in Mood & Energy Levels

An imbalance in thyroid hormones can cause fluctuations in mood and energy levels. People with an underactive thyroid may experience depression or extreme fatigue while those with an overactive one may feel anxious or jittery.

Conclusion

It’s important to keep an eye out for the warning signs of thyroid problems so that any potential issues can be addressed quickly and effectively before they become more serious.

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, make sure to contact a doctor right away to get a professional diagnosis. With the right medical care, thyroid problems can be managed and you can live a healthy life.

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