What are Hypothyroidism Symptoms?
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones to meet the demands of the body. This may result in a wide range of symptoms, including:
- dry skin
- cold intolerance
- brain fog
- constipation
- weight gain,
- fatigue,
- depression and muscle cramps.
Without proper treatment, other complications such as high cholesterol, goiter, infertility, anemia, and nerve pain may develop.
It is also important to note that the symptoms of hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) are often easily missed, non-specific, or attributed to aging, stress, or other causes. It’s only by looking at the signs and symptoms in their totality that doctors begin to suspect hypothyroidism as the underlying cause.
Where is the Thyroid Gland Situated?
The thyroid gland is situated at the front of the neck just below the larynx (Adams apple). Hormones released by the thyroid gland help to regulate numerous functions in your body, from your brain and heart, to your skin and muscles. It controls metabolism which affects your heartbeat, temperature, and how well your body burns calories. Therefore, when you have an underactive thyroid, your metabolism slows down, and your body makes less energy.
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
The signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism can be unnoticeable or mild especially when the condition develops gradually, but tend to be more dramatic and serious when it develops at a rapid rate. Some of the main symptoms of hypothyroidism (as a result of sluggish metabolic processes) include:
1.Abnormal blood pressure
Thyroid hormones are in constant communication with your heart, and they impact how slow or fast it beats. With an underactive thyroid, your heart rate tends to be slower than normal, which can affect other bodily functions and organs, including the brain.
2. Unexplained weight gain
Hypothyroidism slows down a lot bodily functions, including metabolism. As a result, people with an underactive thyroid may gain weight even without changing their exercise routine, eating habits or diet.
3. Digestive issues and new bathroom habits
Hypothyroidism causes the gut to slow down and you may notice that you’re really constipated or you’re just not going to the bathroom as often as you used to. You may also experience loss of appetite, hypoglycemia, food allergies and sensitivities, dry mouth, hemorrhoids, difficulty swallowing, abdominal distention, and bad breath,
4. Fatigue
An underactive thyroid ‘wipes you out’, and your energy control and balance tends to be less effective. The exercises you used to love may be too exhausting, or a full day at work may tire you out more than it used to and you may experience afternoon energy crash. With hypothyroidism, fatigue can also lead to weight gain.
5. Mood changes
Hypothyroidism affects the way the brain functions and this can have a significant impact on your mood. Some people may even experience depression, and it can be hard to pinpoint the thyroid as the underlying cause, since depression itself can also lead to some of the frequent symptoms and signs of hypothyroidism.
6. Changes in skin hair and nails
Hypothyroidism can cause your skin, hair and nails to be super dried out. If you notice your hair is brittle, thin, and breaking off, and you can’t get enough moisturizer, that might be a sign of an underactive thyroid. Due to water retention, decreased blood flow, and slowed processes, the following hair, nail and skin changes can be seen in hypothyroidism:
- Decreased sweating
- Dull, thin, and brittle nails
- Thick, cool, and pale skin
- Swelling of the face, hands and eyelids
7. Muscle weakness and aches
With an underactive thyroid, you may feel joint stiffness, muscle aches, and weakness. This tires you further and makes you not want to be active. Therefore, it’s important to be in tune with your body in order to recognize whenever something feels different. If you’ve not done a tough workout recently, you should not be feeling sore and weak.
8. Brain fog
An underactive thyroid can reduce the speed of the brain function and slow its synapses. The slowed-down feeling can also come along with depression and drastic mood changes. Therefore, you might not be able to think as clearly as you usually do. Brain fog may include signs such as:
- Difficulty thinking clearly
- Forgetfulness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Lack of focus
- Memory problems
- Poor coordination
9. Dry or Puffy Eyes
Hypothyroidism can cause various visual changes including dry, irritated, puffy, and protruding eyes. Therefore, if your eyes seem dried out, or more pronounced than normal (and there’s no apparent cause such as medications or allergies), talk to your physician about your symptoms.
10. Changes in temperature sensitivity (feeling constantly chilled)
Slowed circulation can leave you feeling constantly cold when it’s warm and everyone else feels fine. Temperature sensitivity (super-sensitivity to cold) might be a sign of an underactive thyroid.
11. Thinning eyebrows
Thinning eyebrows, especially in the outer corners could be a sign of hypothyroidism that usually goes along with hair loss. However, some people may simply attribute thinning hair and sparse eyebrows to stress and aging which might not be the case. Therefore, if your eyebrows are getting sparse and you’re feeling unwell, consult your doctor.
12. Swelling in the lower extremities
Swelling and puffiness in the lower body (hip, ankle joints, and feet) is a sign of fluid retention which can be a symptom of Graves’ disease or hypothyroidism.
13. Infertility
Women who are unsuccessfully are likely stressed out and are usually preoccupied with that issue. However, it’s essential to note that sexual and reproductive problems such as frequent miscarriages, pre-term delivery, neonatal death, placental abruption, heavy bleeding and frequent periods can also be signs of other underlying conditions such as thyroid disease.
14. Period issues
Since your thyroid regulates many bodily functions including your cycle, you may see changes from your normal period. Hypothyroidism can cause your period to become heavier or last longer than normal.
15. Can Hypothyroidism Lead to Mental Issues?
Hypothyroidism can mimic the symptoms and signs of depression. Sleepiness, lack of interest in relationships (especially personal relationships), general apathy, slowing of speech and fatigue, can be signs of both hypothyroidism and depression. Some people with an underactive thyroid feel inexplicably confused, restless, irritable and anxious.
It’s extremely important to schedule an appointment with your doctor if you’re experiencing one or more hypothyroidism symptoms. In addition to examining physical condition and medical history, the doctor can also perform a TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) test which will help determine whether you have a thyroid problem.
Lastly, if you’re pregnant or considering pregnancy and taking thyroid replacement hormone medication, consult your doctor to ensure that your hormone levels are optimized for the health and general well-being of both you and your baby.
The Hypothyroidism Revolution is Tom Brimyer’s personal journey of reaching his darkest depths with his thyroid issues, his search for a return to good health through the medical profession and how he came full circle to personal good health and passion for life .
He has created an all natural, simple program with easy to follow steps to help you regain energy and passion for your life once again.
Take heart , help is within your reach and Tom can help you through his program.
Wishing you good health and life balance,
Click here to overcome Hypothyroidism
