Thyroid issues are difficult to pin down and diagnose because they often present with similar symptoms to other health issues such as menopause or cognitive problems. Because the thyroid produces a number of important hormones, thyroid problems can be serious and thus should be treated as soon as possible. There are several signs that can point to thyroid issues and we are going to be looking at them below.
Fatigue
In a medical setting, fatigue and feeling tired are very different. While a good night’s rest is usually all you need to feel better when you have been tired, fatigue caused by thyroid issues can persist even after resting. This is especially concerning in women who may confuse fatigue caused by thyroid issues with tiredness caused by menopause. If you feel tired all the time and are taking oestrogen, it is important to talk to a doctor to see if you have a thyroid issue.
Weight Gain
The thyroid plays a key role in your metabolism, meaning that it also plays a significant role in weight management. If you have an issue with your thyroid, your metabolism will not work as expected and the result is weight gain. If you gain weight suddenly and do not know why, it would be a good idea to go in for a basal metabolic rate test. A lower-than-normal BMR score could indicate hypothyroidism (thyroid issues).
Slowed Heart Rate
One of the more dangerous symptoms of an underactive thyroid is a slowed heart rate. When you have thyroid issues, your body does not produce enough thyroid hormone and this affects your heart. If this goes on for too long, the arteries lose their elasticity, which results in high blood pressure. This is because the slower heart rate causes the body to do more work to circulate blood. The slow heart rate can also cause higher cholesterol levels which can be dangerous on their own.
Sensitivity to Cold
Because of a slower metabolism, your body may not be able to produce enough heat to keep you warm. This leads to people with thyroid issues feeling cold even in rooms and environments that are warm for other people.
If you experience cold hands and feet often, you should go in for a thyroid ultrasound. Preventive healthcare providers like Echelon Health carry out ultrasounds to look for tumours or nodules that can lead to thyroid issues. Echelon Health also does preventive health screenings to help catch health issues before they become massive problems. They also have specific assessments for men and women so you can get the right assessment depending on your gender.
Constipation
Those with hypothyroidism often complain about constipation. If your digestive habits have changed, they can be tied to thyroid hormones, but it is important to talk to a doctor to rule out other causes.
Hypothyroidism is a serious condition that can lead to several serious complications. If you notice any of the signs of an underactive thyroid discussed above, it is very important to talk to a doctor to see if you are having thyroid issues or if there is an underlying issue.