Thyroid disease is a chronic condition that hinders your thyroid gland from producing the right amount of hormones. This issue affects nearly 200 million individuals globally, and interestingly, it's more common in women than men, with hypothyroidism being the second most prevalent endocrine disorder among women [5]. According to reports from the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, about half of those affected remain undiagnosed. So, how do you know if you might have a thyroid issue? Well, there are several subtle signs to watch for. Here's a quick overview of some of these signs.
1) Irregular Menstruation
Your thyroid plays a key role in regulating your menstrual cycle. Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism (which refer to an overactive or underactive thyroid) can lead to changes in your menstrual patterns. For instance, women experiencing thyroid dysfunction may notice irregularities such as missed cycles or variations in flow intensity [1]. They could also face challenges when trying to conceive, as thyroid health is crucial for reproductive function.
2) Sudden Weight Loss or Gain
Unexplained and sudden changes in weight can be among the earliest indicators of thyroid problems. If you've gained weight unexpectedly, it could mean your thyroid isn't functioning properly, often due to hypothyroidism which results in decreased metabolism [2]. Conversely, sudden weight loss might suggest your thyroid is overactive, as seen in hyperthyroidism where excessive hormone production accelerates metabolism.
3) Thinning Hair
Experiencing hair loss? This could signal that your thyroid hormones are out of sync. Both an underactive and an overactive thyroid can lead to thinning hair, often noticeable in areas like the eyebrows and the crown of your head [4]. The good news is that hair can often regrow once the thyroid issue is addressed through appropriate treatment.
4) Mood Changes
Thyroid issues can significantly influence your energy levels and mood. An underactive thyroid may leave you feeling fatigued, sluggish, or even depressed [3]. On the flip side, hyperthyroidism can lead to anxiety, sleep troubles, restlessness, and irritability. Hormonal imbalances associated with thyroid dysfunction can also trigger mood swings, affecting overall mental health.
5) Problems with Sleep
If you're having trouble sleeping, your thyroid might be at fault. An underactive thyroid can cause daytime fatigue by slowing metabolism, which may lead to sleep disorders including insomnia [1]. Conversely, an overactive thyroid may overstimulate your body, making it difficult to relax and fall asleep at night.
6) Irregular Heart Rate
A deficiency in thyroid hormones can slow your heart rate and elevate blood pressure. Conversely, hyperthyroidism can result in palpitations and an increased awareness of your heartbeat, potentially leading to high blood pressure [2].
Addressing thyroid issues early on is crucial. The sooner you seek treatment, the better your chances of preventing irreversible damage. Left untreated, these conditions can lead to further health complications, including cardiovascular issues [3]. So, if you notice any of these symptoms, consider consulting a doctor online to have your thyroid levels checked.
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References:
- Yangyang Wang, YanPing Sun, Bingyou Yang, Qiuhong Wang, Haixue Kuang. The management and metabolic characterization: hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.. PubMed. 2023.
- Scott Kelley. Endocrinology Update: Thyroid Disorders.. PubMed. 2016.
- Meng-Han Yang, Fu-Yi Yang, Ding-Dar Lee. Thyroid disease as a risk factor for cerebrovascular disease.. PubMed. 2015.
- Hisatsugu Ohori. [Thyroid dysfunction (hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism)].. PubMed. 2015.
- Donna Dunn, Carla Turner. Hypothyroidism in Women.. PubMed. 2016.