What symptoms indicate a thyroid problem?

The little, butterfly-shaped gland at the front of your neck, known as the thyroid, is
responsible for controlling your metabolism, which is how your body turns food into
energy, and also effects your heart, muscles, bones, lipids and even reproductive
function. Many different health problems might manifest when your thyroid isn’t working
as it should. Understanding the symptoms of a thyroid problem can help you seek treatment.
Here are some common signs that might indicate a thyroid issue:

1. Unexplained Weight Changes
   A thyroid issue is most easily identified by the presence or absence of rapid,
   unexplained weight gain or loss. Hypothyroidism is characterized by an underactive
   thyroid, which may lead to weight gain despite no changes in eating or activity.
   In contrast, hyperthyroidism, in which the thyroid is overactive, may lead to a rapid
   reduction in body weight despite increased appetite.
2. Fatigue and Weakness
   Thyroid problems might manifest as persistent feelings of weakness or excessive
   fatigue, even after a full night’s sleep. Sluggishness and lethargy are symptoms of
   hypothyroidism, whereas initial increase in energy levels leading to quick exhaustion are
   symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
3. Mood Changes
   Thyroid problems may also have an impact on mood. Feelings of depression are often
   associated with hypothyroidism, while anxiety, impatience, irritability and restlessness
   are symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
4. Changes in Heart Rate and Blood Pressure
   An additional typical sign is an erratic heartbeat. Your heart cannot pump effectively due
   to hypothyroidism, giving the impression that your heart is beating more slowly than
   normal. Conversely, hyperthyroidism may result in an erratic or fast heartbeat. Both
   conditions may contribute to increased blood pressure.
5. Sensitivity to Temperature
   An problem with your thyroid might be the cause of your exceptional sensitivity to heat
   or cold. Feeling chilly even in a warm surroundings is a common symptom of
   hypothyroidism, whereas excessive body heat and sweating are symptoms of
   hyperthyroidism.
6. Hair and Skin Changes
   When you have an issue with your thyroid, it might show up in your hair and skin. Dry skin, brittle nails, and hair loss are symptoms of hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism may cause hair thinning and fragile skin despite smooth, and moist skin appearance.
7. Digestive Issues
   Your digestive system might be affected by thyroid issues as well. Hyperthyroidism may
   produce diarrhea or more frequent bowel motions, while hypothyroidism is more often
   associated with constipation.

Diagnosing Thyroid Problems

Should you have any of these symptoms, it is imperative that you seek the advice of a
qualified medical expert. In order to detect thyroid abnormalities, an endocrinologist,
who is a physician who specializes in hormone-related illnesses, may run a number of
tests, including the following:

• Thyroid-stimulating hormone test (TSH, free T4 and T3)
• Thyroid antibodies to rule out autoimmune thyroid conditions such as Graves’
  disease and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
• Ultrasound of the thyroid gland to rule out nodules
• Radioactive Iodine Uptake and Scan to determine the cause of hyperthyroidism if
  other tests are inconclusive

The key to a prompt diagnosis and successful treatment of a thyroid disease is early
symptom recognition. Do not hesitate to contact a healthcare provider if you encounter
any of the aforementioned symptoms.They can guide you through the appropriate tests
and help you get back to feeling your best.