Understanding Thyroid Problems: 15 Warning Signs

The metabolic rate is closely associated with the thyroid. This means an unexplained shift in body weight may signify thyroid trouble. Weight gain with no change in appetite, exercise regime, or stress level is symptomatic of low thyroid hormone production. Excess thyroid production may also provoke weight loss for no apparent reason. The former condition, hypothyroidism, is far more common, especially in women.

People with thyroid dysfunction may experience significant changes in their demeanor and attitude. Those with hypothyroidism more commonly experience depression, apathy, cognitive dysfunction, and psychomotor impairment. People with hyperthyroidism may experience anxiety, restlessness, and irritability. As the body works overtime, these people maybe feel hyperactive and unable to relax.

Thyroid issues often impact the menstrual cycle of premenopausal women. Physicians typically monitor menstrual activity to confirm suspicions of a thyroid-related diagnosis. Women with hypothyroidism often experience irregular menstrual periods. Bleeding during a period may be heavy or last longer than usual. In other cases, menstrual flow may be light and periods may become more or less frequent. Hyperthyroidism may cause a reduced flow that does not last as long as before, and periods may become irregular. However, changes in menstruation may not occur in all women with thyroid issues, and other medical conditions besides thyroid dysfunction can lead to menstrual changes.

Often the most visible sign of thyroid problems is a swelling in the neck -- a goiter. The growth is a result of an enlarged thyroid gland and may develop in individuals experiencing hypothyroidism and those with hyperthyroidism, as well. Both cancerous and non-cancerous nodules can lead to enlargement of the thyroid gland. Anyone who notices swelling in their neck should consult a doctor.

Thyroid dysfunction may also cause altered mental capacity. When the thyroid gland produces too much hormone, one may experience a lack of concentration and are nervous and easily distracted. When it provides too little hormone, an individual can experience brain fog, slow mental processing, and forgetfulness. In most instances, such subtle symptoms go unnoticed, even though they are among the first to appear. Treatment of the underlying thyroid disorder can often quickly alleviate issues pertaining to cognitive function.

Researchers have connected the loss of libido, especially in women, to thyroid problems. Hypothyroidism, in particular, is linked to a low sex drive and problems with fertility. When the thyroid gland produces too few hormones, metabolism and other bodily functions slow. These changes may lead to a temporary disinterest in sexual activity. Once thyroid hormone replacement begins, individuals can expect their libido to normalize. Patients with hyperthyroidism rarely exhibit a loss of libido. In some cases, they experience an enhanced sex drive.

Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can adversely affect hair quality and growth. When the thyroid produces too little hormone, hair follicles enter resting mode, which leads to hair loss and dry, brittle strands. This hair loss is not restricted to the scalp alone but also occurs on the limbs, underarms, and even eyebrows. Hyperthyroidism tends to affect only the scalp. Hair loss there is often more severe and noticeable than that caused by hypothyroidism. Fortunately, it is possible to restore full hair growth with appropriate treatment.

Many patients with thyroid disease complain of unpredictable and dysfunctional bowel habits. Hypothyroidism is often linked to constipation because the slowing of the metabolism also diminishes the movement of food through the digestive tract. This results in compromised gut motility, which makes it difficult to achieve a bowel movement. With hyperthyroidism, conversely, overactive metabolism may lead to very quick passage of food through the gut, thus preventing water reabsorption and the formation of a firm, well-formed stool, and resulting in diarrhea or more frequent bowel movements. The urge to visit the bathroom is particularly strong after eating. Over-the-counter medications for these symptoms can provide temporary relief.

Thyroid disorders are also associated with elevated blood pressure. Both people with hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are vulnerable to the condition. When thyroid hormone production is inadequate, the heart rate slows, impacting the body's ability to pump blood and reducing the flexibility of blood vessel walls. As a result, blood vessels become stiffer and more resistant to blood flow. Together, these may cause a spike in blood pressure. With hyperthyroidism, the blood-pumping mechanism speeds up, which can increase blood pressure and heart rate, causing heart palpitations and excessive sweating in severe cases.

Individuals with thyroid conditions are also vulnerable to changes in their sleep cycle. They might find themselves extremely sleepy all the time or very alert when they should be growing tired. The slowing of metabolism and bodily functions due to hypothyroidism causes sluggishness and lethargy, leading to a desire to sleep, even during the day. Hyperthyroidism produces excess energy in the body, leading to restlessness, anxiety, and night wakefulness. The change in sleep patterns is noticeable, affecting functionality throughout the day.

Your skin and nails can also be harmed by thyroid dysfunction. Hypothyroidism often leads to dry, pale skin and brittle nails that break easily. On the other hand, hyperthyroidism may cause excessive sweating, leading to oily skin and nail problems. Maintaining healthy skin and nails can be challenging for those with thyroid issues, but it's a vital aspect of overall well-being that can be managed with proper treatment.

Thyroid disorders can make you more sensitive to temperature changes. People with hypothyroidism often feel intolerant to cold weather, shivering even in moderate temperatures. Conversely, individuals with hyperthyroidism may become overly sensitive to heat, experiencing excessive sweating and discomfort in warm environments. Managing your surroundings and adjusting your clothing to adapt to different temperatures can help you stay comfortable.

Thyroid problems can also affect your muscles and joints. Hypothyroidism may cause muscle weakness, aches, and stiffness, making physical activity more challenging. On the other hand, hyperthyroidism can lead to muscle fatigue and tremors. Joint pain and swelling can also accompany thyroid disorders, impacting your mobility. Exercise and physical therapy may help alleviate these symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Changes in vision can be another consequence of thyroid dysfunction. People with hypothyroidism may experience dry eyes and blurred vision. Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, can lead to eye problems such as bulging or irritation. Thyroid-related eye issues can be distressing, but they are usually quite manageable with the right treatment and care. There are multiple ways that thyroid dysfunction and associated eye issues might be managed.

Thyroid disorders can subtly affect your voice whether male or female. Hypothyroidism may cause your voice to become hoarse and deeper than it normally is, while hyperthyroidism can lead to a higher-pitched voice and increased vocal tremors when compared with what your voice was previously like. These vocal changes can be surprising and unsettling, but they often improve with proper thyroid management and care.