Symptoms of thyroid disorders

Know the Symptoms of Thyroid Disorders

The thyroid gland, which regulates metabolism, is shaped like somewhat like a butterfly and is found at the base of the neck. Statisticians say that an average of 59 million Americans have thyroid disorder and most are not even aware of it. Inefficient thyroid function can result in changes in weight, mood and energy.

Importance of knowing the symptoms of thyroid disorders

It would be remiss of me not to mention that undiagnosed thyroid problems can grossly affect your health for your entire life. Thus, it is important that you know the signs and symptoms of thyroid problems so you can tell straight off when you should see a doctor. Keep in mind though, that not everyone has the same symptoms, but medical professionals have been able to agree upon a set of the most common symptoms of thyroid disorders.

Common symptoms of thyroid disease

Stiffness and pain in the joints and tendons, weakness in the muscles of the upper arms and thighs, tarsal and carpal tunnel syndrome may very well be signs of thyroid problems.

Often, in cases of enlarged thyroid, there is swelling at the base of the neck, depending on the size of the enlargement, breathing and swallowing can become restricted and painful. The person may also experience hoarseness. There is a thyroid neck check that can easily be done at home, should you experience these signs.

A common symptom of thyroid disorders is change in the texture of hair, skin and nails. Often, underactive thyroid causes hair, nails and skin to become dry, brittle and prone to damage and breakage. It is also common that severe baldness occurs at the outer edge of the eyebrows.

Bowel movements may become different. Constipation is experienced as a sign of underactive thyroid, diarrhea is associated with hyperthyroidism.

There can be changes in the menstrual cycle of some female patients. The period may either become long, heavy and more frequent, or shorter and lighter, depending on whether the problem is hyper of hypothyroidism.

Like most other chronic disease, family history plays a part in whether one may be prone to thyroid disease. If you know of any family member who has had thyroid problems in the past, it is important that you know the signs and symptoms of thyroid problems.

Elevated of decreased levels of cholesterol can be a symptom of thyroid problems. Again, it depends on whether the thyroid is overactive or inefficient.

Nervousness, depression and inexplicable mood swings can be a sign of thyroid disorder., particularly where the patient may have previously been unresponsive to medication for depression.

Precipitated weight gain or loss is common in thyroid sufferers, especially where diet has remained generally consistent.

A classic sign of thyroid problems is feeling overly exhausted, even when little physical or mental exertion has been performed.

Keeping abreast of the symptoms of thyroid disease should not be taken lightly because if unchecked, thyroid can cause permanent damage to your body


___________

external links