What are the common symptoms of a thyroid disorder?

Common symptoms of a thyroid disorder include fatigue, weight changes, difficulty sleeping, changes in heart rate, sensitivity to cold or heat, dry skin, hair loss, muscle weakness, and changes in mood or concentration.

What causes thyroid disorders?

Thyroid disorders can be caused by various factors, including autoimmune conditions (such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease), iodine deficiency, inflammation of the thyroid gland, certain medications, and radiation therapy to the neck area.

How are thyroid disorders diagnosed?

Thyroid disorders are usually diagnosed through blood tests that measure thyroid hormone levels (TSH, T3, and T4). Imaging tests, such as ultrasound or a thyroid scan, may also be used to assess the size and condition of the thyroid gland.

Can stress affect thyroid function?

Yes, stress can impact thyroid function. Chronic stress may lead to changes in hormone levels and can contribute to the development of thyroid disorders, especially in individuals with a genetic predisposition to thyroid issues.

Are thyroid disorders treatable?

Yes, thyroid disorders are treatable. Treatment options depend on the specific disorder but may include medications to regulate thyroid hormone levels, radioactive iodine therapy, and, in some cases, surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid gland.

Symptoms of a Thyroid Disorder

by Rick Kaselj · Published September 22, 2020 · Updated October 7, 2024

Last updated on October 7th, 2024 at 08:45 pm

Thyroid disorders affect at least one in eight women and sometimes men. Due to the general nature of thyroid disorder symptoms, over half of those with a thyroid disorder are unaware of their condition. Moreover, knowing the symptoms of a thyroid disorder early on can help speed up the diagnosis and treatment process. A poorly working thyroid can lead to various diseases and disorders, so knowing your condition early on is important as choosing the nutrients needed for thyroid function. Here is more information about being aware of thyroid disorder symptoms and what to do if you think you may have one.

The thyroid gland functions as your master gland. It is responsible for energy production and metabolism throughout your entire body. Furthermore, due to its widespread functions, thyroid disorder symptoms are diverse and can affect different body parts. An underactive thyroid gland is referred to as hypothyroidism. This condition is most common in women during transitional times, such as during pregnancy, after childbirth, and during menopause. Men can also develop hypothyroidism from chronic stress or environmental pollutants. On the other hand, an overactive thyroid gland is called hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism may not cause any seen symptoms in its early stages.

Causes Of Hypothyroidism

The hormones produced by the thyroid gland – triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) have a huge impact on your health. They indeed influence all aspects of your metabolism, body temperature, and heart rate. When the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, it upsets the intricate balance of hormones and chemicals in the body.

Before the Thyroid Disorder Symptoms, the causes of hypothyroidism include the following:

1. Autoimmune Disease

The most common cause of the hypothyroid disorder is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune disorder. An autoimmune disorder is when your body’s immune system attacks your tissues, which can sometimes involve your thyroid gland.

2. Hyperthyroidism Treatment

When too many thyroid hormones are produced, this is called hyperthyroidism. Also, if there is an overcorrection, thyroid hormone production can be lowered, causing hypothyroidism. The treatment for hyperthyroidism often involves radioactive iodine or anti-thyroid medications, so you should watch out for Thyroid Disorder Symptoms.

3. Radiation

Cancer treatments of the head and neck can certainly impact the ability of the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones and may result in hypothyroidism.

4. Thyroid Surgery

For those who have had all or a large portion of their thyroid removed, lessened, or stopped, thyroid hormone production will occur. In this case, thyroid hormone replacement will be necessary for the rest of their life.

5. Medications

A variety of medications can certainly adds to hypothyroidism. If you are taking any medications, you certainly need to ask your doctor about the effects they might have on your thyroid.

The signs and symptoms of thyroid disorder such as hypothyroidism are variable, depending on the gravity of the hormone deficiency. Usually, problems develop slowly over several years.

Common Hypothyroid Symptoms

Depression
Fatigue
Unexplained Weight Gain
Constipation
Increased Sensitivity to the Cold
Hair Loss/Brittle Hair
Brain Fog

Common Hyperthyroid Symptoms

Here are Thyroid Disorder, specifically Hyperthyroid Symptoms:

Anxiety/Irritability/Nervousness
Having Trouble Sleeping
Losing Weight
Enlarged Thyroid Gland/Goiter
Muscle Weakness/Tremors
Irregular Menstrual Periods/Menstrual Cycle Stops
Heat Sensitivity
Vision Problems/Eye Irritation

Health Concerns That Could Be Attributed To Your Thyroid

Anxiety/Panic Attacks
Depression
Generalized swelling
Puffy Eyes/Face
Muscle Aches/Pain
Muscle Weakness
Joint Pain/Stiffness/Swelling
Low Sex Drive
Asthma/Allergies
Migraines
Recurrent Miscarriage/Infertility
Lack of Ovulation
Decreased Memory
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
High Cholesterol
Low Heart Rate
Insomnia or Trouble Sleeping
Hives

Outlook

In conclusion, Hypothyroidism treatment is usually simple, safe, and effective. Also, synthetic thyroid hormones are used as replacement therapy for hypothyroidism. Thankfully, accurate thyroid function tests can certainly be used to diagnose Thyroid Disorder Symptoms. Lastly, if you are feeling tired for no reason, or have any other signs and symptoms discussed above like hormonal imbalances, make sure to see your doctor.

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Rick Kaselj

Rick Kaselj MS, is a leading kinesiologist and injury specialist as well as co-creator of the best-selling Unlock Your Hip Flexors program. Rick creates exercise programs that help people heal injuries and eliminate pain, so they can go back to living a full, active, healthy life.

Symptoms of a Thyroid Disorder