Top 12 Helpful Symptoms of Thyroid Gland Problem to Watch Out For!

Often times, when we notice that there is something wrong with our body, we just ignore what we see and feel. Some people think of an excuse, others deny the signs to themselves.

Some of these minor things that we feel are symptoms of a bigger health problem. Small signs should not be ignored, it’s better to know your condition early than battling with it later. This is why it is critical to acknowledge these early warnings that our body signals us, so you can prevent complications.

Thyroid is a small gland that produces thyroid hormone which regulates our body such as our body temperature, metabolism, heart rate and more. If our thyroid will not function well, it will produce more or less of the thyroid hormone which can give you a lot of problems.

The thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland located in front of the neck.

Overproduction of hormones is referred to hyperthyroidism on the other hand, hypothyroidism is the term for the under secretion of hormones in the thyroid. Too much or too less of everything is not healthy.

Be smart and detect the early signs of thyroid problems.

#1. Depression and Sadness

Our mood can be completely altered by our thyroid hormones according to Mayo Clinic. Small amount of thyroid hormone affects the serotonin concentration in the brain which will make a person unusually depressed. Too much hormones causes bad temper and irritability.

#2. Trouble With Bowel Movement.

According to Dr. Robin Miller an integrative medicine specialist, constipation is a top sign of thyroid problem. If you have been constipated for a long time and cannot do anything to address the problem, you may also be looking at thyroid problems.

#3. Excessive sleepiness

Waking up may be really difficult but if the feeling of sleepiness is intense then it’s a waking call. It may be a thyroid problem when you feel so weak and tired despite having enough sleep and rest. A weak secretion of the thyroid hormones can slow down your body and make you feel excessively sleepy even at daytime.

#4. Hair Fall and Dry Skin

Body shortage of thyroid hormones can interfere with the normal hair growth cycle which will lead to hair loss.

If you noticed that your skin is severely dry and itchy, this may be another symptom you need to watch out for. Hypothyroidism decreases metabolism thus, reduces sweat production.

#5. Abrupt Weight Increase

Eating too much and lack of exercise are the common causes of weight gain but if you increase in weight abruptly without even changing you’re eating habbit,exercise program or lifestyle, then be on alert for thyroid problems.

#6. Decreased Sexual Desire

According to Health.com “low thyroid hormone is equal to low libido.”
Also, struggling with symptoms of low thyroid hormone will already be giving you a lot to think of, making sex not a priority.

#7. Muscle Aches and Stiffness

Low supply of thyroid hormones can result to damage of nerves and will send signal impulses to the brain from the entire body. Working out or doing heavy activities may make your muscles painful for some days but feeling these pain without doing anything strenuous should be a cause of concern.

#8. Skipping Heart Beat

No excitement? Not in love and having this kind of odd heartbeat? Sometimes your heartbeat is strong and skipping beats? This may be due to too much thyroid hormone in your system and you must see a doctor or check up immediately.

#9. Forgetfulness

Getting old may make your memory rusty but having a sudden intense episode of forgetfulness is not normal, then this may be a fault from your thyroid. Having a lot of thyroid hormones may make it difficult for a person to concentrate and having less of this hormone will cause difficulty in remembering. Again, too much of something is not fit.

#10. High Blood Pressure

If you have done a lot of diet and exercises to control your blood pressure and still it persists (unless you are under medications for high blood condition) then you may want to have your thyroid hormone checked.Hypothyroidism can increase the body’s bad cholesterol and may lead to heart failure in the long run.

#11. Increased Appetite or Changes in Taste Preference

Increased appetite is related to hyperthyroidism, your body will compensate even if you eat too much, meaning you will not gain weight. While, According to health.com, an under production of the thyroid gland can change your preference of flavor and scent. If you suddenly experience a sudden change in your taste sensation then have your thyroid checked.

#12. Discomfort in the neck or throat

If you feel any of these symptoms, you may look at a mirror to visually check your neck for inflammation or enlargement. Any lump on your throat or changes in your voice may be caused by thyroid problems. It is also best to consult your doctor.

AACE Thyroid Awareness stated,

“Hold a mirror in your hand, focusing on the lower front area of your neck, above the collarbones, and below the voice box. Your thyroid gland is located in this area of your neck.
While focusing on this area in the mirror, tip your head back. Take a drink of water and swallow. As you swallow, look at your neck. Check for any bulges or protrusions in this area when you swallow. (Reminder: Don’t confuse the Adam’s apple with the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is located further down on your neck, closer to the collarbone. You may want to repeat this process several times.)
If you do see any bulges or protrusions in this area, see your physician. You may have an enlarged thyroid gland or a thyroid nodule that should be checked to determine whether further evaluation is needed.”

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