Discover 10 Symptoms To Know If You Have Hypothyroidism
If you have several of these symptoms for no apparent reason, it is advisable to go to a specialist to perform relevant tests in order to obtain a early diagnosis of hypothyroidism.
Hypothyroidism is one of the disorders that can affect the functions of the thyroid gland. It occurs through poor segregation of hormones, which triggers problems in various systems of the body.
It is a common disease in women over the age of 60. However, it can occur at younger ages due to exposure to certain factors.
In its initial stages, it may pass asymptomatically, but as it progresses many conditions and symptoms interfere with quality of life.
It is therefore very important to know how to identify it in order to find a treatment that minimizes the impact it produces on the body. So we wanted to look at some of these causes and 10 symptoms to suspect its development.
What are the causes of hypothyroidism?
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the front of the neck. Its main function is to secrete hormones such as triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), which are involved in many functions of the body.
They work primarily on metabolic health, maintaining the pace that allows the body to process fats and carbohydrates. They also control body temperature, heart rate, and protein production.
Hypothyroidism occurs when the gland does not make enough hormones or loses its ability to use them properly. This situation, in turn, can be produced by:
- Autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto’s thyroid
- Thyroid surgery
- Treatment for hyperthyroidism
- Radiation therapy for head and neck cancer
- The consumption of certain psychiatric drugs
- Iodine deficiency
- Pituitary gland disorders
- Pregnancy or postpartum
- Family history of thyroid disease
Symptoms to recognize hypothyroidism
For many patients, it is difficult to identify hypothyroidism due to the slow development of symptoms in the early stages. However, there are several signs which, although they may indicate other conditions, are useful for their detection.
1. Sudden weight gain
Alterations in metabolism due to low production of thyroid hormones can lead to sudden weight gain, even if the person has good eating habits.
2. Feeling tired
Hypothyroidism also affects blood circulation. It also decreases the body’s ability to optimally oxygenate cells and tissues. Therefore, as a result of this, it is usual to be in a state of fatigue.
3. High cholesterol levels
Many factors influence the increase in cholesterol levels. However, it should not be ignored that this thyroid problem can be a possible trigger.
4. Bad mood or irritability
The hormonal changes that are produced by the dysfunction of the thyroid gland can induce sudden mood swings with a tendency to stress, depression and irritability.
5. Difficulty concentrating
The alterations produced by hypothyroidism impact the activity of the nervous system and the brain. Therefore, it is common for patients with this problem to have difficulty concentrating.
6. Dry skin, hair and nails , possible symptom of hypothyroidism
Beauty is also affected due to this disorder. The changes that occur in the body are indeed reflected in excess dryness on the skin, hair and nails.
7. Slow bowel movement
Slow bowel movements or constipation can occur due to the reduction of thyroid hormones. This is because they participate in the activities of the digestive tract, which is essential for eliminating waste.
8. Muscle pain
It is difficult to interpret muscle pain as a sign of thyroid problems. It is nevertheless essential to take into account that sometimes it is the result of the weakening of the muscles due to the low production of thyroid hormones.
9. Irregular menstrual periods
Impaired hormonal functions of the thyroid can also influence the lack of control of the menstrual period. The woman can therefore have prolonged or too heavy periods.
10. Sensitivity to cold
Patients with hypothyroidism have circulation difficulties which increase sensitivity to the cold. These can feel their extremities cold and stiff. If this is not a common trait in an individual, it should be taken as a red flag.
Do you recognize many of the symptoms mentioned? If you think you have this disease, see your doctor and ask for the appropriate tests.
