Thyroid issues are increasingly prevalent in America, yet most individuals who are affected remain unaware.
As reported by the National Institutes of Health, millions of Americans are diagnosed with thyroid disorders. These can vary from hyperthyroidism to thyroid cancer. Below are 10 indicators that may suggest the presence of a thyroid issue.
1. Significant Weight Changes
Weight changes are among the most frequent symptoms of thyroid disorders. Someone might be attempting to lose weight but finds themselves unsuccessful despite their efforts, or an individual may wish to gain some weight but struggle to do so. The functioning of the thyroid is crucial to metabolism; if it is not working effectively, noticeable weight changes may occur. A rapid and drastic gain or loss of weight should always raise concerns and be addressed with a healthcare professional.
2. Tiredness or Sleep Issues
Feeling fatigued upon waking, or needing to take naps throughout the day, may indicate an underactive thyroid. Conversely, insomnia may arise from an overactive thyroid. The thyroid influences energy metabolism; with an underactive thyroid, the body fails to metabolize sufficient energy, leading to fatigue. An overactive thyroid, on the other hand, has the opposite effect.
3. Psychological Issues
Individuals experiencing thyroid issues frequently encounter psychological challenges, commonly manifesting as depression with an underactive thyroid or anxiety with an overactive thyroid. It’s important to note that emotional challenges are rarely the sole symptom of a thyroid disorder; thus, if there are no other signs, the emotional symptoms may not be related. Fortunately, effective treatment of the thyroid condition often alleviates the accompanying emotional difficulties without requiring additional interventions.
4. Menstrual and Reproductive Issues
Women facing thyroid complications might deal with irregular menstrual cycles or difficulties conceiving. The thyroid is critical for maintaining hormonal balance, so an overproduction of thyroid hormones (hyperthyroidism) can disrupt menstruation and ovulation, leading to lighter periods or even the cessation of menstruation. On the other hand, insufficient thyroid hormone production (hypothyroidism) may result in heavier menstrual cycles.
5. Cholesterol Issues
There’s a significant connection between high cholesterol levels and an underactive thyroid. The thyroid is vital for fat metabolism in the body, primarily through a series of hormonal interactions; hence, poor thyroid function can lead to elevated cholesterol levels. Recent studies indicate that individuals with high cholesterol should be screened for hypothyroidism, as it is believed that half of those with high cholesterol may also have thyroid dysfunction. A suggestion is to consider turmeric supplements or include turmeric in one’s diet, as highlighted in this article by Lyfe Botanical, which suggests it may help manage thyroid conditions and lower cholesterol.
6. Discomfort in the Neck
Neck pain or discomfort is a prevalent indicator of thyroid issues. This discomfort is generally felt at the front of the neck but can also be experienced at the back. This occurs because the thyroid gland, located in the front of the neck and recognized as one of the largest glandsIn the body, swelling can occur when it is not functioning correctly. This swelling can exert pressure on nearby areas, leading to discomfort. It may also hinder swallowing due to its anatomical position.
7. Hair and Skin Changes
Changes in hair and skin typically indicate various hormone alterations. While hair and skin go through transformations during pregnancy and postpartum, thyroid dysfunction along with the resultant hormone imbalances can lead to noticeable changes. Hair is often observed to become thin and brittle, with the possibility of falling out; this effect extends to eyebrows as well. Additionally, skin may turn dry, thick, and coarse. Conversely, with an overactive thyroid, hair loss may occur, and the skin could become delicate and thin.
8. Pain
Individuals with an improperly functioning thyroid may encounter muscular and joint pain. This is attributed to the fact that thyroid dysfunction can lead to conditions known as myopathies. Myopathies refer to disorders affecting the body’s skeletal muscles, which encompasses issues such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and widespread body aches.
9. Bowel Problems
People facing thyroid issues may struggle with bowel and colon health. An overactive thyroid might result in frequent diarrhea, while an underactive thyroid can cause constipation. Additionally, it is not uncommon for irritable bowel syndrome to be diagnosed in conjunction with thyroid disorders.
10. Family History
Almost all medical conditions not linked to pathogens have a genetic component. Individuals with a family history of thyroid dysfunction are at a higher risk of developing their own thyroid issues. If any family members have encountered thyroid problems and you experience any of the symptoms or signs mentioned earlier, it’s advisable to consult your physician and share your family history.
Thyroid disorders can be serious, yet they are manageable. A variety of medications and additional treatments are available to effectively restore normal thyroid function, enabling individuals to return to a healthy, regular life.
by David Livingstone
